The Holly Bush, Makeney

The Holly Bush claims to be one of the oldest pubs in Derbyshire, which may or may not be true, but it's certainly one of the most characterful. It has a huddle of small bars, decent food, and pretty good beers, so the only real problems are a) finding it and b) parking when you get there, as it's off the back road between Milford and Duffield. My only regret is that you can't sit out and admire the nearby Derwent. Walkers should note that this pub lies bang on the route of the ancient Portway, which runs down the hillside from Holbrook heading for a long-gone ford over the river below the pub. Who knows - pilgims may have stopped here for a pint before the Reformation.