The Good Pub Guide for 2021 is here hand several pubs in the north-west have been named some of the best in the country!
We all know we have some cracking boozers in north west and Manchester in particular but some have won an award this year.
The only city-centre pub to receive recognition this year includes pub known bet known for its alfresco pint, The Wharf which reached the top 10 in the Town Pubs category.
The ‘Lion’ in Winchcombe won the Town Pub of the Year with Old Harkers Arms in Cheshire also making an appearance in the top 10.
As for those further afield, the Church Inn in Uppermill earned a top ten spot in the Own Brew Pub of the Year category.
Home to the Saddleworth Brewery, Church Inn was described as an ‘informal and friendly community local that always attracts a cheerful crowd of happy customers, despite its remote setting’.
And finally, the popular countryside pub Inn at Whitewell near Clitheroe was knocked off its 2019 top spot but received a nod for its excellent wine selection and still made it into the top ten.
The celebrations come with a stark warning for pub fans this year, with the guide saying ‘use them or lose them’.
Fiona Stapley from the guide said: “Despite being battle-weary and worried sick about keeping their businesses up and running – I am pleased to say that these plucky/extraordinary people retain a teeny spark of hope.
“All know that the road into 2021 (or until a vaccine is widely available) is going to be frighteningly rocky.
“But they do believe that if they are able to pull together with loyal customers, local suppliers, a helpful bank and a great deal of energy and luck, many will survive.
“But – and I cannot stress this strongly enough – it is imperative that we support them because the British pub is special.
“It is the beating heart and focal point of countless communities, where customers from all walks of life come together and where you can be sure of a warm welcome, a cold pint or a frothing pint of ale and a friendly smile.
“It makes us happy to be there and we have to do all we can to ensure their survival.”
If like us you’ve got your fingers and toes crossed for some good news this Wednesday, many places are starting to take bookings over the festive period.
You can see our round-up of the best new outdoor terraces created especially for Covid-19 here. Most of them have spent the past few months decking the terraces out with covers and heaters so you can enjoy a pint outside too without freezing!
