A Mickleover micro-pub has been named the best bar in Derby North after receiving hundreds of votes and beating off competition from almost 40 other pubs.
The Hole in the Wall, in Station Road, was the winner of a competition launched by MP Amanda Solloway to encourage constituents to support their local bars and breweries.
Although the tiny pub is one of the smallest in the city it received more votes in the competition which asked regulars to rate the range of drinks, cleanliness, friendliness of staff and whether it’s family and dog friendly.
After a highly competitive vote The Hole in the Wall came out on top with the White Swan in Littleover, the Toby Carvery in Chaddesden, The Woodlark in Bridge Street and The Honeycomb in Mickleover named runners up.
Amanda said: “Although the competition was designed to promote the message of looking after your local and recognising the important role pubs play in the economy and community it also turned out to be a thoroughly enjoyable activity.
“Over recess I visited each of the pubs in Derby North and I was absolutely amazed by the great atmosphere, community spirit and high standards of food, entertainment and hospitality – we are blessed to have so many great establishments on our doorsteps.
“I will continue to fight for local businesses in Parliament and especially for our hospitality sector, which has faced huge challenges over recent years. And I would like to thank everyone who took the time to place a vote in the contest.”
Staff at the winning pub have been presented with a specially-designed trophy made by alternative education provider Engineered Learning and a certificate signed by Amanda and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
The Hole in the Wall is a family-run pub led by Paul Harris, the managing director of Derby Brewing Company, whose sister Leanne designed the interior.
It offers a selection of home brewed and guest craft ales, including their amber beer – Business As Usual – a firm favourite with locals.
Paul said: “We’re really chuffed to win this award, I think it’s down to the basics of serving a really good pint, a really nice atmosphere and brilliant staff. We really appreciate that this award has been voted for by the public which really means a lot as the people who have come in day in and day out have tended to drop us a vote.
“A lot of people think we are a micro-pub, but we actually sell a huge range of drinks, loads of different craft beers, wines, spirits and lagers. We aren’t a traditional micro-pub we are a bar that caters for everybody.”
