The Holly Bush, Ripley

Attractive pub located opposite a small green off the main road south of Ripley. Much less traditional inside than I was expecting, it having light decor contrasting with the darker furniture. With all seven handpumps in use, the choice was as follows: the regular Landlord, Abbot and Jaipur plus a brace from Dancing Duck - Waitangi (£3.50) and Abduction - and a couple of ciders.

Situated on the corner of some residential streets, this pub was a bit of a pain to get to on public transport but nevertheless was a good start to a tour of pubs in Derbyshire. Staff and customers were friendly and the beer and cider range was decent. Greene King Abbot & Timothy Taylor Landlord are the 2 regular cask ales. There were also 2 guests from Dancing Duck - Ay Up & Abduction and a further guest was Thornbridge Jaipur. Ciders on handpull at the end of the bar were Lilley's Man-Ghoooul & Healey's Flattler. As stated in the previous review, I get the feeling this is a solid community pub, with a mixture of diners and drinkers. We were also in on a weekday lunchtime. It appears that the on-site brewery is still out of action.