Victoria Inn, Derby

A very fine ale house,close to Derby station and next door to the awful Merry Widows.The central corridor leads to the tap room to the right with traditional furniture,a fireplace and a long bench,while to the left is a larger seating area.It's a boozer and feels basic, a little worn in a good way.The star is the ale selection ,on my trip Leatherbritches Dovedale,The Bounder and Pinnacle along with Little Brewing The Panter Stout and Just Nipping Out,Hollow Stone Ajanta IPA and Sorbeto Mango IPA (outstanding,NBSS 4.5). The mix of styles and strengths along with lots of locales is noteworthy and the guv'nor is an engaging fellow,excellent on curry recommendations and full of helpful beer knowledge. 7 ales available on a Monday evening is another greaT sign,the crew sampled across the range and complemted the conditioning. It would be a crime to miss out on this great boozer,a must visit in Derby.

Official site of the Victoria Inn - www.thevicderby.co.uk

Official site of the Victoria Inn - www.thevicderby.co.uk

I can remember calling in here, probably more than 10 years ago, found the place full of loud music but an absence of real ale, so turned around and went elsewhere. Things have changed, and this is now one of three very good cask beer venues within an easy walk of Derby station - four if we include the Smithfield across the river. There's a bonus for me in that Leatherbritches, one of my favourite breweries, always has two or more beers on the bar, which now has nine hand pumps. Their Dovedale is a 4.4% dark bitter, well balanced and delicious, with a very moreish finish. To be fair, the interior of the pub is pretty basic, but the beer is tremendous. I've had a drink here on four occasions on just two days, as I couldn't leave Derby without another Dovedale. I'll have to try another beer next time. Or will I...

Facebook page of the Victoria Inn - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of the Victoria Inn - www.facebook.com