Cock-a-hoop! Pub is named as one of the best in country
AN ASHBOURNE pub that was reborn after being closed for more than a decade has been named as one of the best in the country.
The Cock Inn, in Mugginton, is one of a list of 94 pubs and bars across the UK that have been shortlisted within their regions, but the Bullhurst Lane pub emerged as the best Derbyshire pub as part of the 2022 National Pub and Bar Awards.
It was one of five shortlisted within the East Midlands, and the only pub in Derbyshire on that list. Any one of the pubs could go on to be crowned the best in the country.
The Cock Inn, which was lovingly brought back to life by the Berkeley Inns group, is facing competition from Leicestershire’s Knight & Garter, Northamptonshire’s The Red Lion, Nottinghamshire’s The Radcliffe, and Rutland’s The Olive Branch.
A total of 94 pubs and bars from across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have scooped the County Winner title, and will now hope to be named the best overall in a ceremony taking place in June.
The pubs, which have been selected on overall best practice across a number of categories, will be officially crowned at a red carpet celebration in London in June, where 15 regional winners will also be announced, as well as the overall national pub and bar of the year.
Last year’s national prize was won by the Galvin Green Man in Essex.
Tristan O’hana, editor of Pub & Bar Magazine, the hosts of the event, said: “Just from being out in these venues, you can see how much pubs and bars mean to people across the UK.
“With visitor numbers increasing, it’s more important than ever for operators to deliver a standout service during every visit – no matter the business in question.
“These 94 county winners are wonderful examples of the brilliance of today’s modern on-trade.”
The Cock Inn has previously been the recipient of a number of other titles, including being nominated for Pub of the Year in last year’s national awards.
Described on its website as having “a wonderful ambience amongst an eclectic combination of original features and modern interpretations”, it offers gluten-free and vegan food options, along with dedicated menus.