Photograph: Sean Elliott Photography
The Lord Crewe Arms has been named “Inn of the Year” by the Good Pub Guide 2018.
The posh-pub-cum-hotel in Blanchland – on the Northumberland and Durham border – was crowned number one out of hundreds of potential contenders in the UK.
General manager Tommy Mark said: “With such strong competition across the whole of the UK to be singled out for this title is a tremendous coup. This is a big pat on the back to all the team for their hard work. It’s a fantastic accolade which follows hot on the heels of many others over the last couple of years.”
The historic inn, which re-opening in April 2014 following two years of restoration and reinvention, offers unrivalled character throughout its twenty-one stylish bedrooms and dining room.
It also features the atmospheric Crypt Bar, where an extensive selection of spirits, wines and cask ales – including the inn’s own Crewe Brew produced by nearby Wylam Brewery – are served.
The inn boasts impressive historic features including an enormous fireplace where there is a regular spit roast. In the summer months the walled garden, formerly the abbey’s cloisters, play host to alfresco drinking and dining.
Immediately opposite is the newly opened Gatehouse – an exciting entertaining and meeting space where head chef Simon Hicks can work his magic for private events and cooking demonstrations as well as a venue for guest chef dinner parties.
The Good Pub Guide is an annual publication for discerning pub-goers, being produced as a result of regular feedback from exacting customers as well as random inspections by its editors.
