About This Pub
You know, when I was chatting with a few mates about the best spots in Derby for a good night out, The Bless kept coming up as a real standout. It's been a staple since the 1970s, blending that classic pub vibe with something a bit more lively – think wide-open rooms, an outdoor area, and a menu of handcrafted pizzas that are just brilliant. The drinks are a highlight too; they've got a solid selection of real ales and spirits with some wallet-friendly deals, perfect for easing into the evening. Events like live music, DJ sets, and weekly quizzes mean there's always something on to keep the fun going, and the team behind the bar are genuinely lovely, making you feel right at home. On the downside, though, the music can crank up a notch too high, which might make it tricky if you're after a proper chinwag. And from what I've heard, the door staff can sometimes be a bit heavy-handed, which is a shame because it doesn't quite match the otherwise welcoming feel. Overall, it's a cracking place for a laugh with friends, as long as you're up for the buzz – just keep those points in mind for a smoother visit!
Pros and Cons
Pros
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It's got a fantastic, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of space inside and out, making it ideal for a relaxed catch-up or a lively night.
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The drinks selection is spot on, with a great range of real ales, draught options, and some cracking deals on spirits – especially that £2 to double up offer.
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Their handcrafted pizzas are an absolute treat, full of creative flavours and highly praised by everyone who's tried them.
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Loads of events keep things exciting, like live music, DJ nights, quizzes, and even a function room for your own gatherings.
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The staff are always friendly and efficient, adding to that homely feel, and it's all at an inexpensive price, so you won't break the bank.
Cons
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The music can be a bit too loud at times, turning what could be a cosy chat into a shouting match over the tunes.
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Some folks have mentioned the door staff being a tad overzealous or acting a bit childishly, which might put a dampener on your evening.
Contact Information
Chapel St, Derby DE1 3GU
+441332233161
Pub
Closed
Opening Hours
| Monday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Tuesday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Wednesday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Thursday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
| Friday (Today) | 12:00 - 02:00 |
| Saturday | 12:00 - 02:00 |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Recent Reviews
Cracking old pub. Several large rooms and an outside area served by a large bar. A couple of decent guest beers plus the normal stuff. It also has a small stage and DJ booth.
The only downside is the music which blares out permanently at a fair volume, rather than background music. So, no hope of a quiet chat with your mates. It just descends into a lot of shouting.
Had early beers here on a friday. One of the best pubs in Derby in my opinion. I am sure they still have the same great play list from the early 90s that they played when I drank there as a student. Pizzas are great, staff are always friendly, security is well managed so a good night is had by all.
I have been going to the Bless since the early 90's, I've had some amazing times here and made some great memories.
The only negative i can give is to do with the bouncers. For some reason, they've got a chip on their shoulder and act like children. They make you form a queue, then let the next people in, plus charging a pound for entry, that's going straight in their pockets.
Pretty much the perfect chilled pub with loads of indoor and outdoor space. The staff are really lovely and service is quick and friendly. The pizza menu is probably one of the most musically creative things I have seen. The pizzas themselves are ace.
There is a pool table, good tunes, loads of seating.
All told two very positive thumbs up.
First visit since my early 20s.... about 18 years ago, it's the same....but different.
Visited mid afternoon on a Saturday and it was fairly quiet and relaxed, had a couple of beers and one of the best pizza's I've eaten.
Back in the early 2000s it was the place to be for alternative/Indie music and a great night out....I suspect it's the same now. The range of alcoholic drinks is massive with spirits, wine, cask ales, draft beers, cans, bottles and cider alongside drinks offers.
Food is available fairly late and is really good, although I did miss the stotties of my younger days.
I suspect that it gets extremely busy and a little messy later on (they're open til 2), I also suspect it's absolutely awesome.
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