The Bartlewood Lodge Stonehouse in Derby

Ah, The Bartlewood Lodge – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local gem in Derby, where you can pop in for a cracking carvery or a fresh pizza without emptying your wallet. I love how the staff go the extra mile; they're genuinely welcoming and make a point of chatting with everyone, which really adds to the cosy atmosphere – think of it as that friendly spot where you can relax with mates or the family. The deals are spot on too, like grabbing 50% off pizzas or signing up for rewards to earn a free meal, making it easy to keep coming back. On the food front, the carvery roasts and pizzas are generally spot-on and full of flavour, offering solid options for veggies and vegans as well, which is brilliant for a mixed group. But, let's be honest, it's not flawless – every now and then, you might get a dish that's not quite up to scratch, like a burger that turned up burnt and missing the promised bits, leaving you a tad disappointed after shelling out. Still, with its community spirit and those everyday bargains, it's a place I'd recommend giving a go, as the highs definitely outweigh the lows for a laid-back pub experience.