Derby Arms: The UK's Best-Kept Pub Secret? (You HAVE to See This!)
Derby Arms: The "Secret" That Deserves to Be Shouted About (Honestly)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the (pint-sized) beans on Derby Arms. They call it the UK's "Best-Kept Pub Secret," and honestly? They're probably right. And that's the problem. They need more people. So, consider this your personal invitation to break the code, ditch the predictable, and discover a place that's less a hotel, more a… well, a vibe.
Accessibility: More Than Just a Ramped Entrance
Let's get the boring stuff out of the way first. Accessibility. Sigh. Crucial, I know. I'm happy to report that Derby Arms seems to have things covered. They list Wheelchair accessible and Facilities for disabled guests, which is a good start. Though, let's be real, "seems" is the key word until you're actually in the place. I couldn't personally verify a full accessibility audit, but with the details they have provided on the accessibility list I can't say that Derby Arms is bad with accessibility.
Cleanliness and Safety: Because We're All Sanitizing Freaks Now
This is a big one, isn't it? Especially post-apocalyptic… I mean, current world situation. They're clearly taking it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection, Hand sanitizer, Rooms sanitized between stays, Staff trained in safety protocol. It’s a relief. The whole place felt… clean. Not overtly clinical, just… clean. And the cashless payment service is a bonus for germaphobes like yours truly. They also have Hygiene certification, so there is a paper trail to prove the safety standards held and it has been kept up to code.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: This is Where Derby Arms Shines
Oh. My. God. The food. Forget the hotel-restaurant clichés. This is where Derby Arms really slaps.
- Restaurants: They have multiple, and all accessible, because, duh.
- Bar: Essential. Obviously. And a proper pub bar, not some watered-down hotel version.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: They also have a coffee shop, a must have when someone needs a fresh brew.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Yeah, baby! Western breakfast, Asian breakfast… the works. I piled my plate high with everything. I had a Western, but also tasted a little bit of Asian, and it was immaculate. I have not seen better food at such a reasonable price.
- A la carte in restaurant: For those who want a specific meal, the menu is set.
- Snack bar: I got a snack at the snack bar, but I won’t sugar coat it, I was disappointed. It was a quick bite, but not the greatest.
- Poolside bar: Yes. Just yes. Sipping a cocktail by the pool? Pure bliss.
- Room service [24-hour]: Perfect. After a long, tiring day of traveling, I was able to unwind without leaving the room.
- Happy hour: I had one too many cocktails, but what can I say, I was ready to unwind!
- Desserts in restaurant: Absolutely delicious!
Ways to Relax: Beyond the Usual Hotel Blah
Okay, so this is another area where Derby Arms goes above and beyond. Let's be real, most hotel spas are… underwhelming. The Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Massage, and Pool with view are the real deal.
Now, the pool… That pool. I’m not a “pool person,” usually. But this… This was different. It was an Swimming pool [outdoor]. This wasn't just a chlorinated rectangle. The view was incredible. I sat and stared for what felt like hours. The staff kept asking if I was okey, which I was. It was just… mesmerizing.
The Rooms: Cozy, Chic, and Surprisingly Well-Equipped
Okay, the rooms. I would say the rooms were Non-smoking rooms, but I could also say that there were a lot of Smoking area nearby. They were surprisingly nice.
- Air conditioning: Essential, especially in this heat.
- Free Wi-Fi: Never a bad thing.
- Coffee/tea maker: A lifesaver.
- Bathrobes: A nice touch.
- Blackout curtains: Crucial for a good night's sleep.
- Complimentary tea: Always!
- Extra long bed: Finally, a bed that fits me!
- High floor: Another yes! Another chance to see the beautiful scenery.
- In-room safe box: Always a good idea for valuables.
- Internet access – wireless: Free Wi-fi!
- Private bathroom: Always private!
- Refrigerator: Perfect for late night snacks.
- Shower: With great water pressure.
- Slippers: Such a luxury.
- Soundproofing: I didn't hear a peep from anyone else.
- Window that opens: A breath of fresh air.
Services and Conveniences:
- 24-hour front desk
- Concierge service
- Laundry service
- Room service
For the Kids:
- Babysitting service
- Kids facilities
- Kids meal
- Family/child friendly
Things to Do: More Than Just Sitting Around (Though I Did a Lot of That)
- Car park [free of charge]: A massive bonus in an area where parking is usually a nightmare.
- Gift/souvenir shop: Perfect for that last-minute present.
- Car park [on-site]
Getting Around:
- Car park [free of charge]
- Car park [on-site]
- Airport transfer
- Taxi service
The Real Deal: My Anecdote
I got there after a long day of driving, a bit grumpy. I was greeted by a friendly face, checked in quickly, and whisked up to my room. The room was beautiful, the view stunning, the bed inviting. After that, I went for a swim, had a meal, a cocktail, and finally was able to say, that was a great day.
The Quirks (and the Small Gripes)
Look, Derby Arms isn't perfect. The snack bar… well, let's just say it could use some love. And the elevators can be a little slow during peak times. But honestly? Those are minor quibbles.
The Verdict…
Go. Book it. Now. Yes, it could be slightly "secret," but for me, Derby Arms provided a great stay. You'll thank me later.
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My Offer: Book Now and Unlock Paradise
Book your stay at Derby Arms today and receive a complimentary…
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You won't be disappointed (unless you hate having a good time, in which case, maybe this isn't for you).
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Alright, buckle up, Buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is Derby, baby, and we're gonna experience it like a… well, like a slightly bewildered, coffee-dependent, and thoroughly charmed tourist.
Derby Arms: A Chaotic Chronicle of a Chap's Craving for Caffeine (and Maybe Some History)
Day 1: Arrival – The Great Derby Deluge and Pub-Induced Euphoria
- Morning (Or, More Accurately, Late-ish Morning): Arrive at East Midlands Airport. Seriously, get ready for a downpour. Apparently, the Midlands and "sunshine" are only acquainted on a very infrequent basis. The cab ride to The Derby Arms is… well, it's a cab ride. Let's just say I'm fairly certain the driver used "shortcuts" that Google Maps would actively discourage. But hey, we made it!
- Midday: Check into the Derby Arms. The pub itself is gorgeous! Real, proper, old-fashioned pub with creaky floorboards and the smell of… ah, the promise of a good pint and a hearty meal. My room? Tidy. The towels are fluffy. Success! Now, where's that darn kettle?
- Afternoon: First crucial mission: Hunt for proper coffee. British coffee, generally, is… well, it has its own charm. After a frantic search (and a few questionable instant coffee experiences), I stumble upon a little independent café called "The Bean Scene" which actually provides something resembling an espresso. Huge, utter, caffeine-fueled relief. Afterwards, I wandered around the Cathedral Quarter, trying to look vaguely cultured. The Derby Cathedral is pretty impressive, even if I did get distracted by a particularly flamboyant pigeon. Found myself thinking, "That pigeon looks like it's ready to star in a West End production."
- Evening: Pub time! The Derby Arms itself, naturally. Ordered a pint of something local (I can’t remember the name, but it was brown and cold, which is a good start). Had a proper pub meal. (Ohhhh, that pie! Glorious, gravy-soaked, life-affirming pie!) Made small talk with some locals. Turns out, they're a friendly bunch, if a little obsessed with football (soccer, for our American friends). I managed to butcher the pronunciation of a few football terms but, thankfully, they found it amusing. Ended the night feeling warm, mildly tipsy, and totally in love with the idea that I could be here.
Day 2: The Silk Mill, a Brewery and an Existential Crisis (Possibly Caused by Over-Caffeination)
- Morning: The Bean Scene, again. Seriously, that place is a lifesaver. Today, I need to go see the Derby Silk Mill (the world's first factory!) … but first, coffee. Decided to walk along the River Derwent to the Silk Mill, which was a lovely thing to do. It was peaceful, calming, and I, of course, managed to nearly trip over a rather dignified goose. (He didn't seem impressed).
- Midday: Silk Mill! Honestly, it's fascinating. Seeing all those machines and hearing about the history of the place. I learned a lot about the industrial revolution, which is a very good thing. However, after a while I was overwhelmed. Too much information! I suddenly had a feeling of existential dread. The vastness of history, the sheer scale of human endeavor… all those spinning wheels… it was quite a lot. Needed a calming pint after that.
- Afternoon: Beer. Because… well, you'll understand. Took myself on a tour of a local brewery. Apparently, they actually taste the beer. I, being both practical and curious, was happy to volunteer as a tester. And they had lovely beers. A really good afternoon.
- Evening: Back to the Derby Arms, obviously. This time I met a couple of blokes who were proper derby fans. They told me about the football club, and shared some of their favourite moments. By the end of the night, I'd learned a lot about the Derby County Football Club, and was starting to think about what it would be like to support a team. This whole "community" thing is growing on me.
Day 3: Museums, Memories, and The Bitter Sweet Taste of Farewell (and More Pie)
- Morning: The Derbyshire Museum and Art Gallery! More culture! I spent a good couple of hours there. I even saw a stuffed moth that looked like it might be planning world domination. (I swear, the taxidermy in this country is wonderfully weird.)
- Midday: Final pub lunch at the Derby Arms (the decision was made for me by my stomach). One last pie. This time, it was steak and ale. Absolutely perfect. I'm going to have serious withdrawal symptoms when I get home.
- Afternoon: A wander around the shops, buying souvenirs. Tried to find something even remotely resembling a suitable gift for my perpetually unimpressed cousin. Found a key ring with a picture of a sheep on it. Perfect.
- Evening: One last pint at the Derby Arms, saying goodbye to the friendly bar staff. The atmosphere was so warm, and so welcoming. The people were real, and the pie was incredible. The whole thing was bitter sweet. But a trip to Derby will be a story that can be told over and over again.
Day 4: Departure - Until Next Time, Derby Arms!
- Morning: The obligatory last-minute panic to ensure luggage hasn’t mysteriously sprouted legs and run away. A final glance at the rain outside, a wistful sigh, and a promise to return.
- Midday: Cab ride back to East Midlands Airport. This time, no shortcuts. This time, I see the actual, proper roads.
- Afternoon: Board plane, still dreaming of pie.
Final Thoughts:
Derby Arms? Fantastic accommodation. Derby? A place that crept under my skin, surprising me with its charm and, yes, its rain. It was a bit of a mess, a bit chaotic, and perfectly, wonderfully human. This trip taught me that sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that aren't meticulously planned, but the ones that happen organically, fuelled by good coffee, good beer, and the unexpected joy of a pie. I can't wait to go back!
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Okay, Okay, Derby Arms...Is it *Really* the Best-Kept Secret? I'm Skeptical. Spill the Tea!
Look, I get it. "Best-Kept Secret" – it's pub-review bingo, right? But seriously, *Derby Arms*? Different story. I stumbled upon it – literally, after a particularly grim Monday – and it nearly restored my faith in humanity. First, the skepticism? Gone. It's not just a pub; it's like... a portal. To good times. To proper, honest-to-god, *real* people.
Now, I'm not gonna BS you. It *is* a bit of a trek depending on where you live. Hidden down a lane, not exactly the flashing neon sign type. And yeah, getting there felt like winning a minor quest on the Map. The first time, I nearly turned back. Thought it was probably a ghost. But, persevere and I swear, worth every blasted step.
What's the Vibe Like? Is it All Chintz and Old Blokes? (Not That There’s Anything Wrong With That...)
Alright, so chintz? Maybe a *smidge*. But in a *good* way. Like, you're sitting in your grandma's living room if your grandma had excellent taste and a never-ending supply of proper pints. The pub has a roaring fireplace, a cozy atmosphere and a true sense of belonging.
The "old blokes"? Definitely a few. But mixed in are families, students, couples on dates, and the occasional lone wolf (like me, sometimes, after a particularly bad day). It feels like a genuine community. No posing. No pretense. Just... *relaxed*.
The Beer! Tell Me About the Beer! (Important Stuff, This.)
Right, now we're talking. The beer. Listen, I'm no beer sommelier. But I *know* good ale. And the Derby Arms has it in spades. They've got a rotating selection of local brews, all kept perfectly. I swear, the first pint I sank there was the kind of experience that makes you go, "Ahhhh." You know? That perfect temperature, that creamy head… *chef's kiss*.
The cider's good too, by the way. My pal Sarah, who usually only drinks cocktails, went through three halves of the local scrumpy cider in one sitting. True story. She blamed the friendly atmosphere – didn't help that we'd just had a rather dramatic breakup talk before hand, that cider just didn't seem to help at all.
What About the Food? Is it Just Crisps and Nuts? Pray Tell!
Oh, god, no. Thank the heavens for small mercies. While you *can* get a packet of crisps (and they probably have some good flavours, I should try them one day), the Derby Arms does *proper* pub grub. Think hearty, home-cooked stuff.
Their Sunday roast is legendary. I’m not kidding. It's so good I may have wept a little bit. I might have looked at it wrong too, the meat was so juicy and tender that I started to question my own life choices. I've seen the waitresses carry the plates around on a bad day, like, the plates practically bounce. That's how packed the place gets for Sunday lunch. But, they do a great job.
Okay, spill the Beans, What's a Standout Moment From Your Derby Arms Adventures?
Alright, so, the standout. Strap in. Remember how I mentioned the "portal" thing? Well, last winter... I’d had a truly awful week. Everything was going wrong. Car broke down, boss was a nightmare, and I was pretty much convinced the world was actively conspiring against me. I'd gone to the pub on my own, just to hide from the madness a little, I would sit in front of the fire and let the world not bother me at all.
Because it was on a tuesday night, it wasn't busy at all. The old man at the bar – bless him, he looked like he'd been carved from oak – started talking to me. Just chatting. About the weather, about the football (which I know nothing about, but I nodded enthusiastically), about life! He recommended a particularly dark ale, told me stories about when he used to work in a factory in the war . And over the course of two pints and a frankly delicious steak and ale pie, actually, I felt myself... un-miserable. Just, *slightly* okay. The kindness just made me weep!
That’s the Derby Arms. It’s not just a pub. It's a place where you can, actually, *feel better*. It sounds corny, I know. But it’s true. And the pie was truly, honestly, incredible! Ahh, the good memories. I think I might have to go back again to that very spot to reminisce.
Any Downsides? *Surely* There are Some!
Okay, alright. Real talk. It *can* get busy. Especially on weekends and during big game days. That roaring fire sometimes gets a bit... well, roary. The service isn't always the *fastest*. But that's part of the charm, right? It's not a place where you can rush things. It's a place that demands you slow down, and you may have to wait... that's the only real downside I can think of.
Oh, and the toilets… Let's just say they're "authentically pub-y". They aren't a pristine spa-like experience. But honestly, after a pint or two, you won't care. It's the only downside I can really think of. And sometimes getting a taxi at the end of the night is a nightmare, but again, I’m prepared to forgive pretty much anything for the good times.
Is it Kid-Friendly? My Little Terrors are Always Hungry.
Ehhh, tricky one. They *do* allow families. But it's not specifically geared towards children. I’ve seen kids there, but it's more of a grown-up pub. If your kids are little angels who are happy to sit quietly, then go for it. If they're the kind who like to run around and cause chaos, maybe not. It's about respecting the atmosphere there.
