Top Dog‑Friendly Pubs in Derby: Your 2025 Guide

For many of us, a pub visit isn’t complete without our four-legged friend by our side. That’s why we’ve updated our picks for Derby’s top dog‑friendly pubs in 2025. Whether your pup loves sociable taprooms, sunny beer gardens, or muddy walks followed by a cosy fire, this list ensures tail-wagging hospitality

Our guide reveals pubs that go the extra mile for canine comfort—expect water bowls, dog treats, and staff who genuinely love dogs. We’ve included a mix of relaxed city centre pubs and vibrant local favourites, with handy info on atmosphere, dog‑friendly policies, and seasonal features.

The Old Silk Mill

Full Street, Derby

If you’re on the hunt for a dog‑friendly pub that balances great food and drink with historic atmosphere, The Old Silk Mill ticks all the boxes. Situated in a converted industrial building rich with local heritage, this pub offers a relaxed interior and garden area where dogs are not just tolerated—they’re welcomed. Visitors regularly comment on the "superb food and great service" and appreciate that "water bowls never far away". Whether you're stopping by after a riverside stroll or meeting friends midweek, it’s the sort of place where both you and your four‑legged friend can feel at home.

Learn more about the The Old Silk Mill.

The Exeter Arms

Exeter Pl, Derby

Popular city pub with water bowls at the ready and a big jar of dog biscuits.

The staff at the Exeter Arms on Exeter Place are always very enthusiastic about giving maximum fuss to its canine customers.

Learn more about the Exeter Arms.

The Royal Standard

Derwent Street, Derby

Nestled by the River Derwent on Derwent Street, The Royal Standard warmly welcomes both you and your canine companion. This recently refurbished pub offers a heated courtyard and roof terrace—ideal for spring and summer visits with your dog comfortably by your side. 

Inside, the friendly atmosphere and relaxed real‑ale crowd make dogs feel at home, while outside your pup can enjoy outdoor time with you by the riverside. With its spacious layout, varied events, and quality brews poured from four rotating casks, it's a great stop-off during dog walks or for a laid‑back pint after exploring Derby’s scenic promenade.

Learn more about The Royal Standard.

Five Lamps

Duffield Road, Derby

For a relaxed pint with your pup, The Five Lamps is a top pick in Derby. Just a short walk from the city centre, this welcoming pub has a laid-back atmosphere that makes dogs feel right at home. Staff are happy to greet four-legged visitors with a smile (and often a biscuit), and water bowls are always available.

The pub’s spacious layout means there’s plenty of room to settle in with your dog, whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon pint or dropping in after a walk around nearby Darley Park. The Five Lamps is known for its excellent selection of real ales and craft beers — often up to twelve on cask — as well as honest, hearty food served daily.

If you’re looking for a proper pub where both you and your dog can relax in comfort, The Five Lamps ticks every box.

Learn more about Five Lamps.

Flower Pot

King Street, Derby

The Flower Pot on King Street is popular for those wanting to see a good cover band or two. It is also great for a drink with your favourite canine, claiming to be ‘absolutely’ dog-friendly.

Learn more about The Flower Pot.

The Furnace Inn

Duke Street, Derby

Dogs are not only allowed in the Furnance Inn, they’re genuinely welcomed — with plenty of space under the wooden tables, a water bowl never far away, and friendly regulars (both two- and four-legged). It’s the kind of place where muddy paws after a walk along the Derwent aren’t frowned upon, and wagging tails often earn a biscuit or two from behind the bar.

Read more about The Furnace Inn.

The Greyhound

Friar Gate, Derby

Situated in Derby’s lively Friar Gate area, The Greyhound is a welcoming spot for both humans and hounds. Known for its rotating selection of craft and cask ales, it’s a great place to unwind with a pint after a city stroll. Dogs are warmly received, with staff happy to provide water bowls and fuss.

Inside, you’ll find a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, and outside, an all-weather beer garden with a retractable roof — perfect come rain or shine. With hearty food served daily and a calendar of regular events, The Greyhound is ideal for dog‑friendly meetups, casual lunches or just a pit stop with your pup in tow.

Learn more about The Greyhound.

What Makes a Great Dog‑Friendly Pub?

Some pubs simply open their doors to dogs—but the best go further. For instance, The Exeter Arms stocks jugs of water and big jars of dog biscuits. The Tap Beer and Spirit House allows well‑behaved dogs indoors (just not on seats). These little touches make all the difference, creating genuinely welcoming vibes for pups and owners alike.

Dog‑Friendly Facilities & Ambience:
Many featured pubs offer features like spacious beer gardens, comfy firelit lounges, or easy access from walking trails. Five Lamps (Duffield Road) serves up real ales and homemade food in a relaxed setting that's perfect for muddy paws afterward. Flower Pot caters to dog‑lovers who enjoy live music—though quieter evenings might suit nervous pups better.

Outing Tips & Considerations:
Before you go, check each pub’s dog policy—some bar bring‑your‑dog during peak times, like evenings on Fridays at The Orange Tree. Ensure your pup is well‑behaved indoors, especially around other diners. It’s smart to bring a towel or blanket for muddy paws and bag your own treats (though extras might be waiting). Finally, plan around walking routes or parks nearby to make it a full pup‑friendly adventure.