Beer was good, a few off tap. The cider seemed watered down and the food was disappointing. The 'Mega Grilled Cheese' was done in a toastie machine with unmelted cheese in the middle, the lasagna looked and tasted like a readymade frozen one - which was dry and burnt. The Mini Fish and Chips seemed alright but was more chip than fish. The building is lovely but not well run.
Decent real ale selection and service though sadly not the cosy welcoming atmosphere of 20 years ago.
Oldest pub in Derby and rich with history. Love that they haven't changed much, because it's a Derby treasure! If you're looking for a quaint English pub, this one checks all the boxes!
Decent community pub in Derby whose mail claim to fame is the fact(!) that it's the town's oldest public house (c. 1520). I usually advise people against frequenting establishments whose name begins with "Ye Olde", as they are often tourist traps (the Nottingham Castle one is one particularly annoying example) or use their history to make up for other deficiencies. The cask ale selection is not too limited (around half a dozen handpumps) , but during my visit several of those weren't available, and the ones that were weren't terribly interesting. The seating is split into a number of smaller areas, so it's not a place for larger groups but it's a good thing if you wanna meet up with family or friends. But, given that Derby is a town of many more interesting pubs, beer-wise, I simply cannot recommend Ye Olde Dolphin except for grabbing a quick pint.
Visited Saturday 21st January 2023 early evening. Derby's oldest (surviving) pub dating from the late 16th century with 18th century additions into what was a doctor's, the doctor in question allegedly performed autopsies on those hanged at Derby gaol. Architecturally and historically it's hugely significant, hence it's listed status. Unfortunately beer wise it's not particularly great, it's all a bit macro, brown and twiggy as far as cask beer goes with everything else being macro lager and spirits. It's internal layout is small (ish) rooms, this in combination with it's city centre location means it gets incredibly busy. Personally I'd visit around midday, have a beer and appreciate the history and architecture, I wouldn't necessarily visit any other time, or if I wanted a great beer selection.
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Derby, Derbyshire, DE1
If you like great food, great beer, and great sport, then Bar Sport is for you!
Derby, Derbyshire, DE1
Derby, Derbyshire, DE1
Welcome to Derby's premier real ale house! At least fourteen real ales every weekend hand pulled or gravity dispensed from our unique Cellar Bar!