The Great Northern in Ilkeston

Ah, The Great Northern – it's one of those pubs that just feels like a breath of fresh air when you step inside. From what I've gathered from folks' experiences, the food really steals the show; that carvery at £10 is an absolute bargain, with top-notch quality that leaves you satisfied without breaking the bank. The staff are just lovely, always up for a chat and making sure everything runs smoothly, which adds to that warm, community feel. It's got a genuine, unpretentious atmosphere too, far from the sterile chains, so if you're after a proper pub experience with a good pint in hand, this one's a winner. On the flip side, though, some drinks prices do feel a bit steep – that orange and lemonade at almost £5 might make you think twice before ordering extras. And while the food's great, the lack of hot plates can be a minor niggle, especially if you're with a crowd and things cool down quicker than you'd like. All in all, it's a solid choice for a casual get-together; just go in with realistic expectations, and you'll likely have a cracking time.