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Campaigning for good beer in good pubs in north Lancashire and the Ingleborough area

CAMRA Lunesdale

Historic city pub wins real ale award

CAMRA Chairman Cliff Laine presents the award to Macy Cookson (right) and Jon Davis, with members of staff

Lancaster's historic Golden Lion has been voted Autumn Pub of the Year by Lunesdale CAMRA. The inn on Moor Lane, reputed to have been the site of the last drinking place of the Pendle Witches, was given the award for its fine selection of real ales and its welcoming atmosphere.

CAMRA Chairman Cliff Laine paid tribute to the management partnership of Macy Cookson and Jon Davis. “Thanks to them the Lion has the atmosphere of a real local, and when it comes to excellent beers,drinkers are spoilt for choice.”

Macy and Jon, who took over the Good Beer Guide-listed pub just six months ago, have increased the beers on offer from two or three real ales to seven - two house beers and five guest ales. “We listen to what our customers tell us,” said Macy, and have had good feedback on the guest beers, which we change on a weekly basis.”

The Golden Lion, known affectionately as “The Whittle” after the former Whittle Springs brewery attracts customers of all ages, and has a popular “open mike” night on Tuesdays. Plans for the near future include a real fire and the introduction of bar snacks at lunchtime.