The Golden Eagle, Derby

This back street pub that punches way above its weight on the beer front. Noticed that it is featured in the Winter 15 issue of Derby drinker as being back in the GBG after some 13 years and apparently was one that was in danger of closure until it was taken over by a father and son team from the local Titan brewery two years ago who have by all accounts turned this one round and it now functions as a good community local and the Tap pub for the Titan brewery. And that was well in evidence for our recent visit and the pub seems to be thriving well. An excellent choice of different ales and ciders available on the pumps and alongside the Ruby and EPA from the Titan brewery, Animal Brewing Neigh, Old Golden Hen and a rather excellent Titanic Plum Porter were available. With its interesting external murals and eclectic objects internally this is now a well run pub of some character and well worth a visit when in Derby

Tap for Titan ales (they brew on the kit at Mr Grundys) with impressive exterior artwork. The interior is a fairly large open room with a wooden floor and the bar is off to the right. Seemed a bit open and rattly, internally. Nicely done framed snippets of Derby history adorn the walls to keep you occupied over your pint. Darts and board games available. Quiz Weds, acoustic music Thurs. Child friendly. Toilets in very good nick, so fair play. Six ales, including two from Titan and two proper ciders. I tried the Titan Ruby which was a little lacking condition but drinkable enough and served up by a friendly guv’nor. Choice of jug or straight glass. Overall it’s the sort of place that needs to be busy in order to get the experience. 7.5

Decent, traditional pub (albeit one with some interesting exterior murals) acting as the Titan Brewery tap. The partly opened-out interior features a variety of seating areas and a dartboard. Very friendly landlord who made us feel very welcome. Good selection of real ales from six handpumps, including their own Ruby and EPA (£1.40, half), a couple of guests and two ciders. One of several good ale pubs in this area.