The Thorn Tree, Ripley

Nicely located behind some, err, trees in the market place. It has recently been done-up inside, sporting fairly neutral tones with a bit of battleship grey thrown in. There’s also some interesting red and black chequerboard flooring and some tongue and groove wood panelling. The best seat is the curved bay window with welcoming banquette, which we bagged. Six pumps at the bar with five on; brews from Blue Monkey, Titanic, Blackshale, and Pentrich, served-up by a friendly barmaid. All the beers we had were in good or very good nick. An 80s soundtrack was playing with some brilliant out-of-time singing along from the other end of the pub. We stayed for longer than originally planned, which in itself is a recommendation. Best ales in Ripley.