Shepherd Neame pub of the year, the Crown and Cushion, in Blackwater
Shepherd Neame has announced the winners of its annual pub awards, with 12 of its 322 pubs and hotels across London and the South East taking home prizes.
The overall pub of the year award went to the Crown and Cushion, in Blackwater, Surrey, while the Old Neptune, in Whitstable, was named the tenanted pub of the year, and Mabel’s Tavern, in London’s Kings Cross, was named the best managed business.
Shepherd Neame chief executive, Jonathan Neame, said: “This has been a year of record investment in our pub estate, as we aim to attract our customers through great design, to excite them with a superb offer and to retain them by providing a memorable experience.
Shepherd Neame chief executive, Joanthan Neame (centre) presents the pub of the year award to Clive Price (centre right), licensee at the Crown and Cushion, and his team
“These awards are aimed at recognising the hard work, dedication and creativity of our licensees, managers and staff, and celebrating excellence in our industry.”
The award for best pub food went to The Granville, in Canterbury; the Adelaide, in Teddington, won the beer hero prize for the excellence of its cask ales; while the Crown & Sceptre, in Dover, was honoured for being at the heart of the community. The awards were announced during a ceremony at the Conningbrook Hotel, Ashford.
Clive Price, who runs the Crown and Cushion, said: “It has been an exciting year as we undertook a major transformation and expansion of the pub, which included doubling the number of covers available.
“We have been delighted by the positive reaction to the pub’s new look, and this award is well-deserved recognition for our team who work incredibly hard to ensure our customers enjoy a great experience.”
