Alter Ego Brewery

Alter Ego Brewery sits just outside Alfreton in Derbyshire, turning out proper craft beers in a part of the world that's finally getting the independent brewing scene it deserves. The taproom is the main draw - you can sit down with a pint of whatever they've got on and actually talk to the people making it, which beats the sterile chain pub experience hands down.

What you're getting here is small-batch brewing done with actual care. They rotate their lines regularly, so you won't be drinking the same IPA you had three months ago. The space itself is relaxed rather than trying too hard - no exposed brick nonsense or ironic neon signs, just a genuine working brewery where you can watch the operation.

It works brilliantly if you're the sort of person who actually gives a toss about hop varieties and fermentation times. Families with older kids will find it decent enough for an hour or so, though younger ones might get restless. Solo travellers and groups of mates will have the best time.

If you're camped at one of the nearby sites - Yew Tree Farm or Riddings Wood are closest - it's worth the short drive to break up the holiday routine. Pair it with a walk around the local countryside and you've got a decent afternoon sorted. Best bet is to check their website or ring ahead about current opening hours and whether you need to book, as independent breweries can be a bit fluid with their schedules.