Spirit Vaults, Melbourne

Formally the Blue Bell which was built as a house in 1736. With its three storeys, gable parapets and roundel at the top of the gable it was a very smart building for rural Melbourne. The pub seems to have become known as the 'Blue Bell' in the late 19th century; before then it was known as the 'The Spirit Vaults'. We are lucky that the pub survives as the Melbourne Estate was not keen on public houses on its doorstep, having closed the 'White Lion' next door after purchasing it in the 1860s. The pub is well located for visitors to the Hall and Norman parish church (12th century) and has an outdoor heated drinking area. It is popular with walkers and a real cider is usually available on tap here.

The interior has been tastefully decorated in a light polish wood finish throughout. There are two separated drinking areas either side of the bar which provide standing and seated area. The brewery is on view to the back of one side. A large additional seated area forms the main food serving area allowing it to be fully separated from the main pub.

Fully renovated in 2020 and now home to the former Shardlow brewery, now named the Morgan Brewhouse brewery.

Derby CAMRA Country Pub of the Year 2022 finalist.