The Falstaff - Normanton, Derby

Wet-led pub The Falstaff Normanton, Derby

Steph Briggs and Jim Hallows are celebrating 20 years as licensees of The Falstaff in Normanton, in the south of Derby. Known locally as the Folly, it was named CAMRA’s Derby pub of the year for 2023.

What are the main challenges you’re facing as a wet-led pub?

Energy bills: the increase in the price of gas and electricity is without doubt the biggest challenge right now.

What is the most popular beer style at your pub and have you seen any change during the cost-of living crisis?

Our customer base drinks across the range of our real ales – each style has its own fan base. If everyone liked the same beer we’d only need to brew one. That’s the beauty of real ale: it has a wide range of tastes and styles to reach a wider audience. We haven’t seen a change in tastes due to the cost-of-living crisis.

What qualities do you think are most important when recruiting a new team member?

Personality. Everything else can be taught. Having the right personality makes customers feel welcomed and valued.

What aspect of your pub business are you most proud of?

Our customers. We have a lovely, friendly regular customer base who make newcomers feel welcome and who look after each other and are willing to help each other out.

What is the best thing about your job?

The people we meet and the friends we have made. The regulars refer to the “Falstaff family” and we love being part of their lives through their highs and lows. It’s more than a job, it’s a lifestyle, and we couldn’t imagine doing anything else.