July 2026. Chesterfield.
“A Top 100 pub ! ANOTHER one ?“.
Why not ? The Royal Oak was the highlight of July, a “Wow” moment that Thursday afternoon in floral Chesterfield.
The Shambles may not have the fudge and Harry Potter tat of York, but the Royal Oak has always looked the part,
without the beer to justify a return to the GBG.
But though you might come to gawp at the beams and the benches,
and debate the age of the building,
it’s the beer that should get this revitalised boozer back in the book (alliteration bonus point).
Thanks to “Prop Up The Bar” Nick I now know it re-opened last year under independent owners. You know, the independents that CAMRA likes.
The local Ashover Poets Tipple, the beer of choice here, is a rich and chewy 4 (VERY GOOD), but the magic comes from the regulars, sitting around the wall sorting life’s problems. So much laughter, so much joy.
It’s a magic moment watching it unfold, a bit like the Cutlers in Rotherham.
And, just for Blackpool Jane, they’ve got a low-alcohol craft beer on tap.
A remarkable pub.
retiredmartin 
Not just for Jane either, I’ve had a ‘dry’ spell recently, was getting a bit sick of the Erdinger when I couldn’t get a Guinness zero.
That pub looks stunning, must get out there sometime.
Sadly, never did the Brampton mile with Uncle Paul
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve never been a huge fan of the Royal Oak, perhaps it’s the superbly preserved 15th century building and the contrast with the modern pop music playing in the background.
But I notice from your photos that you were drinking your beer in the slightly more recent 19th century building next door, which I have only ever been into to use the toilets situated through there. Perhaps that’s a more congenial room, as you imply.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The atmosphere was quite something, as was the beer.
LikeLike
Chicago Dave comment> That is my kind of place.
LikeLike