The Station Inn, Derby

Interesting, old-fashioned pub. Opened out inside at some stage to leave a 'L'-shaped room with fairly basic furniture and decor in the bar, but a well-lit counter and a more comfortable (if darker) side seating area. Also has a rear lounge with a pool table, but this is not obvious to the first-time visitor. None of the four handpumps were working on this visit, but thankfully the much anticipated Bass was still being served from the jug on the back shelf behind the counter (£3.20).

I have called in here between trains on a few occasions recently. Like other reviewers, I initially missed the fact that Bass was available "from the jug" and ordered a half of Wells Bombardier, not by any means a favourite brew. What a surprise: this was in such good condition that it probably qualifies as the best ordinary brown bitter I've tasted so far this year. Others on hand pump were Marstons Pedigree with Caledonian Deuchars due on next. I regretted missing the Bass and so made a point of calling again "between trains" (it's only three minutes from the station). I'm glad I did, because the Bass, although lacking some of the character of past years, was also in superb condition, brought from the cellar in a large metal jug. It's very pleasant and comfortable here, as described by other reviewers, and a "must visit" if you've as little as 15 minutes to wait for your connection. The couple that run this place, Dave & Lynn, deserve every credit for an excellent little pub.