Derbyshire's Best Pub: The Victoria Inn Shines Bright
The Victoria Inn in Railway Terrace, a city pub just a stone's throw away from the Railway Station, has been a champion of live music and real ale for years. After a significant refurbishment in 2022, owners John Smith and Emma Middleston made it their mission to create a true Derby pub experience, complete with real ale, a tight-knit community of regulars, and original live music. Their dedication has paid off, with the pub being named as Derbyshire's best by Telegraph readers in 2024.
Key Takeaways:
- The Victoria Inn has seven cask beers, two kegs, and an extensive selection of ciders and perries, making it a haven for ale enthusiasts.
- Owner John Smith and his partner Emma Middleston have made it a priority to showcase real ale, live music, and a tight-knit community of regulars.
- The pub's live music offerings have been deemed a "success" by Mr. Smith, who encourages local bands to hire out the space below the pub for free.
- The Victoria Inn now has 10 pumps, with three dedicated to gluten-free options, catering to a growing demand for dietary-friendly beers.
- The pub regularly updates its beer selection on the Real Ale Finder app, showcasing local brews and upcoming events.
- The Victoria Inn has been shortlisted for the inaugural Derbyshire Dines Awards, joining five other local establishments.
- Voting for the awards will close at midday on July 31, with the winners to be announced soon.
Statistics:
- 7 cask beers available at the Victoria Inn
- 2 kegs available at the Victoria Inn
- 10 pumps at the Victoria Inn, with 3 dedicated to gluten-free options
- 2024: The year the Victoria Inn was named as Derbyshire's best pub by Telegraph readers
- July 31: Deadline for voting in the inaugural Derbyshire Dines Awards
Sources:
- "Derbyshire's Best Pub: The Victoria Inn Shines Bright" by Telegraph readers (2024)
- Interview with John Smith, owner of the Victoria Inn
- Real Ale Finder app
- Derbyshire Dines Awards website