The Blue Bell, Chesterfield

Will Larter left this review about The Blue Bell

Various pubs are claimed to be the only one, or one of two, or the most unique, because of their position in church grounds, graveyards or consecrated lands. (The Ring O'Bells in Kendal, the Cross Keys - now the Chantry - in Handsworth, the Victoria in Chester and the Mug House at Claines are examples.) This pub was originally a chantry, so should also qualify, and is a listed building, though the interior has nothing of interest to Camra's heritage pub interiors group. It's quite pleasant, though; but it's hard to ignore the huge modern dining room extension, with car park, patio and children's playground. Once through the door there's a smallish bar counter with three hand pumps, one unbadged, one with pump clip reversed and one with local Ashover Poets Tipple. I patiently waited my turn and asked for a half of the cask beer. "Poets Tipple all right?" said the friendly young woman serving - she was just trying to be helpful, but I couldn't help saying that it was the only beer on. We shared a small grin.

I took my beer outside to avoid cooking smells and dogs as much as possible. The beer was ok but nothing special (NBSS 3, but only just). The pub gets a 5 from me but a second beer might have lifted it to a 6.

On 9^th May 2024 - rating: 5
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