Donkey Derby

Head down Sheffield Road towards the outskirts and you'll spot the Donkey Derby sitting comfortably amongst the row of independent businesses that give this part of town its character. It's the sort of pub where regulars have their spots, the bar staff know what you drink, and nobody's pretending to be anywhere fancier than they are. The ratings speak for themselves—locals keep coming back because it does the basics brilliantly: proper pints, food that doesn't mess about, and a welcoming atmosphere whether you're popping in after work or settling in for the afternoon. Greene King's done well by this one, letting it keep its soul rather than turning it into a corporate clone.