The Hest Bank is a historic pub but it has not rested on its laurels. Although it has been considerably altered and extended, this has been done without losing the “atmosphere” which is so essential to a good pub. It is generally said that a country pub needs its food trade these days, but the Hest Bank is a shining example of how a pub can have a thriving food trade and be at the same time a lively and vibrant local. It also sells an interesting and varied range of beers. The attractive canalside garden is a bonus.
Runners-up: Woodlands and the Smugglers’ Den (last year’s winner).
Sue and John receive their certificate