The Pub of the Year award at the East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 looks to recognise the businesses that act as the cornerstone of their communities, contributing to the local tourism offering and championing local produce.
“Pubs have been an integral part of British culture for hundreds of years. They are the social hub for many towns and villages,” said Gareth Hatton, associate director of Everard Cole and the judge for this category. “The pub industry has had it tough the past few years. Therefore, it is only right that they be recognised for all their hard work.”
Now more than ever, the public understands the struggles that the industry is facing, and with pub numbers dwindling, Mr Hatton said “there is no better time to support the trade than by recognising a memorable pub visit”.
“Pubs are no longer a place to stop in for a quick drink,” he added. “Today, pubs showcase an array of food, drinks and, in many cases, notable letting rooms. They encourage us to stay and enjoy the atmosphere for longer, and this in turn aids in boosting a region’s tourism.”
An increasing number of pubs are becoming champions of local food and drink, offering homegrown produce and supporting small farmers, producers and growers.
Mr Hatton said that serving up local fare “helps several small businesses support one another and in turn makes us want to come back for more!”
Pubs offer a warm welcome and a good meal to people from all walks of life, and they need our support. These awards present businesses with an opportunity to shout about what makes them great, driving business forward and attracting more visitors to our wonderful region.
“Pub reputation has primarily been driven by word of mouth, and such a prestigious award highlights a pub’s key attributes and encourages both locals and tourists alike to visit the premises,” added Mr Hatton.
Entries to the East of England Tourism Awards 2023-2024 close on Sunday, September 17, 2023. To enter or nominate, please visit tourismawards.co.uk
To find out more about the categories, please click here.
Meet the Sponsor
Everard Cole is a commercial property consultancy specialising in the licensed, leisure and hotel sector.
The business provides professional advice in all areas of commercial property. It has a unique insight into the licensed leisure and development sector which has been gained from many years in general practice working for leased and managed pub operators, the private market, hotels, restaurants, as well as a wide spectrum of leisure operators.
Everard Cole operates nationwide but also has an expert knowledge and a detailed understanding of local markets throughout East Anglia.
Award criteria
This award recognises pubs that make a significant contribution to tourism in their area, with a food and drink offering that includes quality locally sourced produce.
The business must be a single pub site from an independent, chain or group operator and should offer food and the option to drink and not dine.
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