The Smithfield, Derby

This was my first port of call when joining the PuG tour of Derby and initially I wasn’t expecting much due to its out of town location in what on the map looked a bit of an industrial estate. But it was actually quite a pleasant two roomed pub with a decent situation on the river which it utilises well with a pleasant enclosed riverside patio area out the back of the pub. Internally it maintains a public, saloon vibe with a plain utilitarian wooden floored front bar where the main decoration comes from several chalk boards and then a more comfortable carpeted lounge section to the back of the main bar. The bar supports 8 real ale pumps and five were in operation for our visit with Sarah Hughs Dark Ruby, Oakham Citra, Whin Ales Arbor Light , Derby Brewing Co The Smithy and Draft Bass available and could not complain with a well kept pint of Oakham Citra. And there seemed to be a very decent low cost traditional pub grub menu that quite a lot of the locals were utilising on this particular Friday lunchtime. No CAMRA discounts available but there is a loyalty card scheme operated which obviously benefits said locals. Not the best pub encountered on the day but a solid enough start and wouldn’t hesitate to include again when in town.