The Cross Keys: A Cozy Village Pub in Ockbrook, Derby
A cozy village pub in Ockbrook offering real ales, homemade pizzas, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Cross Keys is a charming, small village pub located on Green Lane in Ockbrook, Derby. Known for its warm, friendly atmosphere, it offers a great selection of real ales, homemade pizzas, and a welcoming environment for locals, walkers, and dog owners alike. With a wood-burning stove adding to its cozy feel, this pub combines traditional charm with lively social buzz, making it a beloved spot for casual drinks and hearty pub fare.
A brief summary to The Cross Keys
- 3 Green Ln, Derby, Ockbrook, DE72 3SE, GB
- +441332804597
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 3 pm-8 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the homemade pizzas—they are a highlight and offer great value.
- Visit on a Friday or Saturday evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere and occasional karaoke nights.
- Bring your dog along; the pub is dog-friendly and welcoming to walkers.
- Enjoy a pint by the wood-burning stove for a cozy experience, especially in colder months.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cross Keys location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Cross Keys
A Traditional Village Pub with Warm Hospitality
Nestled in the heart of Ockbrook, Derby, The Cross Keys is a quintessential village pub that exudes warmth and friendliness. Despite its modest size, it boasts a lively and inviting atmosphere where locals and visitors alike feel at home. The staff are known for their welcoming nature, engaging with patrons in a way that fosters a strong community spirit. The presence of a wood-burning stove adds a comforting glow and warmth, especially appreciated during colder months.Quality Real Ales and Homemade Fare
The pub prides itself on offering a carefully curated selection of real ales, recognized by inclusion in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide. The beer is served with care and a smile, enhancing the overall drinking experience. Food offerings are simple but well-loved, featuring homemade pizzas made with fresh, quality ingredients, alongside classic pub staples like ploughman’s lunches and hot roast cobs served with roast potatoes on Sundays. The menu is intentionally limited, focusing on quality over quantity, which complements the pub’s relaxed, drink-first vibe.A Welcoming Spot for All Visitors
The Cross Keys is notably dog-friendly and child-friendly, making it a great choice for families and pet owners. Walkers and newcomers are also warmly welcomed, reinforcing its role as a community hub. The pub hosts occasional events such as karaoke nights, adding to its lively and fun-filled character. Despite modern touches like TV screens for sports viewing, the pub retains its traditional charm and avoids becoming a full-scale restaurant, preserving its identity as a true local watering hole.Atmosphere and Social Experience
The atmosphere at The Cross Keys is casual and convivial, with a buzz that peaks on Friday and Saturday evenings when the pub fills with locals enjoying a pint and good company. The staff’s friendly banter and the presence of regulars create a sense of belonging. The absence of fried chips on the menu helps keep the air fresh, allowing patrons to enjoy their drinks and food without overpowering smells.Location and Setting
Situated on Green Lane in the village of Ockbrook, the pub benefits from a peaceful setting yet remains easily accessible. Its location makes it a popular stop for walkers exploring the Derbyshire countryside. The pub’s traditional exterior and cozy interior provide an authentic English village pub experience, blending rustic charm with a lively social scene.Community and Recognition
The Cross Keys has earned a reputation as one of the best pubs in the area, celebrated for its excellent service, quality drinks, and welcoming environment. It is a staple in the local social calendar and is appreciated by a diverse clientele, from families to solo visitors. The pub’s commitment to maintaining a friendly, inclusive atmosphere ensures it remains a cherished local institution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Derby Ram Statue
6.8 km
Discover Derby’s iconic ram statue, a vibrant symbol of local legend, heritage, and community pride in the heart of the city.
The Hemlock Stone
10.1 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Gazebo
11.3 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
11.3 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Cathedral Hall
14.9 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
14.9 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
15.0 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
15.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Scale Space Nottingham
15.1 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
St Nic's Church
15.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
The Belgrave Rooms
15.3 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
The Spot
15.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
The Cornerhouse
15.4 km
Explore The Cornerhouse in Nottingham for a perfect blend of cinema, dining, and nightlife, offering unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Speakers' Corner
15.4 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Right Lion
15.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Alvaston Park
4.7 km
A scenic riverside park in Derby with inclusive playgrounds, BMX tracks, sports courts, and vibrant community events for all ages.
Derbion
6.6 km
Derbion: Derby’s vibrant heart for shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture under one roof.
Derbion shopping centre
6.8 km
Derbion Shopping Centre: Over 200 shops, vibrant dining, and entertainment in the heart of Derby city centre.
Derby Cathedral
7.0 km
Discover Derby’s historic cathedral blending Georgian elegance, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural life in the city centre.
Cathedral Quarter Derby
7.1 km
Derby’s historic heart: cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, independent boutiques, cafés and culture around the cathedral.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
7.2 km
Free world-class art and antiquities in Derby's cultural heart, anchored by the world's largest Joseph Wright collection.
Darley Park
7.3 km
An 80-acre riverside park in Derby blending lush gardens, open fields, sports, and vibrant community events in a historic natural setting.
Five Lamps Pub
7.4 km
A friendly and lively traditional pub on Duffield Road, offering a welcoming atmosphere and classic British drinks in Derby.
Pickford's House
7.5 km
Discover Georgian elegance, local legends, and cultural heritage at Derby’s Pickford's House Museum, a free-entry historic gem with period rooms and unique exhibitions.
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
7.6 km
Historic sculptural heads on Friar Gate commemorating Derby’s pivotal role in the 19th-century Reform Bill riots and political change.
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
7.6 km
An 18th-century haunted prison where history, paranormal mystery, and immersive theatre converge in England's ghost capital.
Armstrong’s Mill Outlet
8.1 km
Discover unique fashion finds and vintage treasures at Armstrong’s Mill Outlet, Ilkeston’s vibrant shopping destination with over 150 sellers.
Attenborough Nature Reserve
9.7 km
Discover serene lakes, rich birdlife, and peaceful trails at Attenborough Nature Reserve, a celebrated wildlife sanctuary near Nottingham.
East Midlands Aeropark
10.1 km
Explore historic aircraft and watch modern airliners take off at East Midlands Aeropark, a unique aviation museum and viewing spot near Castle Donington.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
10.7 km
Explore a rare Elizabethan dovecote museum in Nottingham, showcasing centuries of rural heritage and architectural charm.
Essential places to dine
Clock Bistro
2.1 km
A cozy bistro in Spondon blending English, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
La Rock Restaurant
5.8 km
Experience refined Modern European cuisine with impeccable service in the warm, elegant setting of La Rock Restaurant, Sandiacre’s fine dining jewel.
Dovecote Restaurant
6.3 km
Elegant countryside dining with seasonal British cuisine and serene views at Morley Hayes Golf Club near Ilkeston.
Carnero Lounge
6.9 km
A welcoming Derby lounge offering vibrant vegan and gluten-free dishes in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting with excellent coffee and friendly service.
Darleys Restaurant & Terrace
7.2 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic river views in a historic mill setting at Darley Abbey, Derby.
The Dining Room
7.2 km
An intimate Derby restaurant serving exquisite, locally sourced British dishes with warm, attentive service in a cozy setting.
Emily's Steakhouse
7.4 km
Cozy British steakhouse in Derby offering expertly cooked steaks with classic sides and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
The Restaurant at Horsley
8.3 km
Elegant dining with scenic golf course views, serving British classics and steaks in a tranquil Derbyshire setting.
Craig Riley @ Donington Manor Hotel
9.3 km
Experience Michelin-level modern British cuisine in the historic charm of Donington Manor with Chef Craig Riley’s exceptional culinary artistry.
ZHUG
9.9 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
10.0 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
Miller & Carter Wollaton
10.7 km
Savor 30-day aged steaks from British farms in a warm, intimate steakhouse near Wollaton Park—where butchery expertise meets grilled perfection daily.
Admiral Rodney
10.8 km
A traditional Nottingham pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere on Wollaton Road.
Amalfi White
11.4 km
Stylish modern European dining and elegant events venue with inclusive menus and a grand ballroom in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
Mr Man's Restaurant
11.4 km
Spacious Cantonese dining in Wollaton Park offering authentic Chinese flavors and generous portions in a relaxed suburban setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Typically Unique
6.6 km
Discover beautiful, realistic gifts and exceptional service at Typically Unique, a beloved shop in the historic village of Aston-on-Trent.
Tubo Gift Shop
7.0 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and eco-friendly treasures at Tubo Gift Shop, Derby’s award-winning indie gem in the historic Cathedral Quarter.
Something Different
7.3 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique collectibles in a charming Stapleford shop filled with antiques, records, and secondhand gems.
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
7.6 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Park Farm Shopping Centre
8.6 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Allestree, Derby, blending independent stores with essential services in a relaxed community setting.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
9.9 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
9.9 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
9.9 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Marks and Spencer
10.1 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Aryaan Straps
10.6 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Stratus Wallets
10.7 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
10.8 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
World Duty Free - East Midlands Airport
11.0 km
Shop premium beauty, fragrances, spirits, and more at East Midlands Airport’s World Duty Free with convenient Reserve & Collect service.
Rico’s Vape Store Wollaton
11.4 km
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B & V Thornhill
11.4 km
Discover B & V Thornhill, your friendly neighborhood newsagent in Wollaton, Nottingham, offering local news, snacks, and convenience items.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cross Keys
0.0 km
A cozy village pub in Ockbrook offering real ales, homemade pizzas, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Malt Shovel
2.3 km
Historic 18th-century pub in Spondon, Derby, offering cozy rooms, home-cooked meals, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
Windmill Inn Derby
5.6 km
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Exeter Arms
6.6 km
A cozy, traditional Derby pub offering hearty meals, excellent ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the city center.
The White Horse
6.7 km
A lively Derby city-centre pub famed for live music, friendly vibes, and a solid selection of ales and ciders.
Cosy Club
6.9 km
Historic elegance and modern dining converge in Cosy Club Derby’s vibrant Royal Buildings setting.
Silk Mill Derby
7.0 km
Historic Derby pub blending British culinary heritage with craft ales and a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Hideout Derby
7.0 km
A vibrant Derby pub blending gaming fun, street food, and bottomless brunch in a lively, social atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Derby
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Lively cocktail bar and casual dining venue in Derby city centre, perfect for drinks, socialising, and celebrations with stylish vibes and great deals.
Bunk
7.0 km
Lively Derby bar specializing in chicken wings and cocktails, perfect for casual evenings and vibrant nightlife.
BlueNote
7.0 km
Derby’s late-night hotspot for live music and DJ-driven clubbing in the heart of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Blacksmiths Lounge
7.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and live music venue in Derby’s historic Sadler Gate, blending rustic charm with vibrant entertainment.
The Flowerpot
7.1 km
Derby’s iconic real ale pub and live music venue blending traditional brews, vibrant gigs, and authentic Gurkha curries in a lively setting.
The Bell & Castle
7.2 km
A lively and welcoming Irish-style pub in Derby offering great drinks, casual dining, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Distillery
7.2 km
Derby’s independent bar and restaurant with the largest spirit collection, innovative menus, and a lively atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Dog Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
