As fans of micropubs it’s always sad when a small watering hole has to close its doors whether it be financial, personal, building issues, etc. The venue of a particular micropub in Derbyshire fell victim to such downfalls when it was forced to close back in 2023, but just over a year later the building is back in use as a micropub again. I was very hoptimistic (pun intended) about visiting this revived watering hole, now called The Hoptimist, in the Derbyshire village of Draycott, situated between Derby and Nottingham.
Picture this micropub
Formerly a picture shop before it first became a micropub this venue has had a complete makeover inside and out for its second life as a small watering hole. Complementing the turquoise walls and wood floor and bar area are plenty of interior decorations to boot, whilst the windows proudly display the Hoptimist’s logo. Another bonus feature is that the venue boasts a couple of charging points with USB, very handy for giving your phone battery a top-up in case you need it to check on, for example, when your bus home is arriving.
Plenty of hops
In terms of liquid refreshments The Hoptimist has a good selection available for all drink tastes. Starting with a beer range where there are up to three cask offerings along with up to four keg beers available plus a selection of canned beers to choose from. Cider fans are well catered for here with up to five tipples to sample. Also available here are wines, spirits, whiskeys and soft drinks. Crisps and nuts can also be purchased here for anyone wanting something to munch on.
Reasons to be hoptimistic
I was saddened when the original micropub closed its doors but was always hopeful that the venue would be returned to being a small watering hole. The great news is that this place is once again a micropub and having visited it there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic that this revived venue will be a thriving watering hole once again.
Getting here
The Hoptimist is located in Draycott and is easily accessible via local bus services that serve the village.
Address – 29 Victoria Road, Draycott, Derbyshire DE72 3PS
Buses – Trent Barton’s Indigo service (running from Derby, Long Eaton and Nottingham) stops nearby the venue.