The Neptune, Derby

Our team leader with the local knowledge had promised us that there's a turnstile from the Baseball Ground here in a back room, but by the time we got here we were all the worse for wear and completely forgot about it. We had to make do with a photo of Dave Mackay, best known in these parts for winning the league as a manager with Derby County. I had an early infatuation with Spurs, and at age seven I knew the names of all the 1961 double-winning side, before seeing the light and becoming a Luton Town fan. Anyway, back to the beer, which was Bass or Pedigree here; I had the latter, which was NBSS 3.5 and £2.20 for a half. This is a traditional pub with some very old beams, and Union flags and poppy-themed tributes on display in May.

A perfectly functional town local - two sides round the bar with a smattering of sports-related elements; darts, TVs, trophies etc. The good turnout of regulars seemed happy enough. A reasonable Pedigree on handpump with Theakston's Summit clip reversed.

Unremarkable city-centre pub, albeit with a slightly unusual 'H'-shaped layout and some decorative timber-work just below ceiling level. Busy with a mixed crowd early on a Saturday evening, with loud conversations competing with 1970s music. Just Doom Bar and Pedigree (£3.50) from the two handpumps.