The Shoulder Of Mutton, Alfreton

to be turned into a private home

An old stone-built crossroads pub at the edge of the village, the Shoulder of Mutton looks as though it has been extended at some time into the next door cottage. A modern porch has also been added, and there's a garden below and to the front with about a dozen bench tables. Once through the porch, the bar is tiny, and the crowd of Sunday drinkers gathered around made it initially difficult to see what was on offer, but they soon made room. Three hand pumps had Navigation Pale, Kelham Island Pale Rider and Caledonian Flying Scotsman. I had a half of the latter, which arrived with a big frothy head. "Have a slurp and I'll top that up, me duck" said the landlord, and was as good as his word. I'll have to find a way to get back here so that I can have more than just a quick half before getting back on my bike. Good Beer Guide listed and local Camra pub of the season (Spring 2012).

A 'real local'. A little gem of a pub!

A 'real local'. A little gem of a pub!