Micropub serving an ever-changing selection of real ales along with ciders, wines, soft drinks and traditional pub snacks.
Over the last few years there has been a rapid increase in the number of old units being converted into small micropubs across the country. In Derby there are a few dotted around the city, and that number is increasing. As a fan of micropubs, and having had the pleasure of visiting few of these in and around the local area, I was delighted when I learnt of a new micropub in my old home village of Duffield, just north of Derby – I just had to pay a visit.
Duffield’s new micropub is located on the main thoroughfare through Duffield, Town Street, and is fittingly called the Town Street Tap. It is in a former tea room (although you wouldn’t be able to tell) having been tastefully renovated inside with painted walls, blackboards, seating and tables; all ready for its new life as a small watering hole. With all good micropubs the main focus here is on real ales – in this case six ales on sale (2 from owners Tollgate Brewery and 4 guest ales from other breweries). The Town Street Tap also serves a selection of real ciders, wines, soft drinks and traditional pub snacks such as crisps, pies and scotch eggs.
There is no bar in this pub; instead staff here will bring your drinks and snacks to you ‘table-service’ style with ales being served straight from the cask. CAMRA discounts are available for ales and ciders here, and there is even free tea and coffee available, ideal for anyone wanting something to sober-up with after a couple of pints (and I like my tea so I couldn’t resist).
Overall the Town Street Tap has an excellent range of drinks, friendly staff and is a very pleasant establishment. Naturally I wholly recommend this place to all micropub fans out there. With easy access from Duffield bus and train services (the pub is right by a bus stop) this would make an ideal stop on any pub trail.
Do you think you’ll check out the Town Street Tap?