Love them or loathe them, Wetherspoons pubs remain some of the most popular places to grab a cheap breakfast, a pint or a curry night across the East Midlands.
While everyone has their favourite local ‘Spoons, I’ve now visited them all across our region and can share with you the handful I think really stand out from the crowd thanks to their historic buildings, atmosphere and value for money.
Here, in my Humble Opinion’ is my pick of five of the best Wetherspoons pubs in the East Midlands.
5. The Joseph Else, Nottingham
Arguably Nottingham’s best-known Wetherspoons, The Joseph Else sits in a former department store and attracts a mix of shoppers, workers and visitors.The pub has a huge interior, good service (although, avoid before a Forest match) and convenient city-centre location.
It’s an ideal first stop on a night out or when you need a quick pint before boarding your bus or tram.
4. The Corn Exchange, Leicester
Housed inside one of Leicester’s most striking Victorian buildings, The Corn Exchange has a grand interior and in a perfect central location. I absolutely love the architecture and like the layout a lot. Never had a problem finding a seat, even when the mighty Foxes are playing.
Few pubs offer the chance to enjoy a hangover budget breakfast beneath such spectacular Victorian architecture.
3. The High Cross, Leicester
Just a short stroll away is another Leicester favourite. The High Cross occupies a Grade II-listed building and takes its name from one of the city’s most historic landmarks.
The building is full of character, has a traditional pub feel and is perfectly located in the heart of the city.
It’s one of the most atmospheric Wetherspoons in the region and a pub that I think genuinely feels part of Leicester’s history.
2. The Standing Order, Derby
One of Derby city centre’s most recognisable pubs. The interior blew my socks off the first time I walked in.
The Standing Order occupies a former bank building and Mr Martin has wisely left the soaring ceilings and grand architecture in tact.
If you’re a fan of historic buildings being given a new lease of life, this is a classic Wetherspoons success story.
1. The Ritz, Lincoln
Occupying a former cinema, The Ritz is one of the most unique Wetherspoons you’ll find anywhere in the East Midlands.
Original theatre features remain throughout the building, giving it a character that sets it apart from standard chain pubs.
Even if by chance you got a rotten meal (I never have, by the way), you’ll be in a forgiving mood thanks to your spectacular surroundings.
Why is it my favourite? Because drinking a pint in a converted cinema never ever gets old.
