The Chronicle (South Tyneside and Durham)
Trio of pubs are toast of region
THREE North East pubs have been chosen to represent the region at the National Pub and Bar Awards after being crowned the best in their counties.
The venues are among 94 across the UK which have scooped county winner titles, and will compete to be one of 15 regional winners, as well as the overall National Pub & Bar of the Year.
Our winners are NQ64 in Tyne and Wear, The Crown Inn in Humshaugh, Northumberland, and the Bay Horse in Darlington, County Durham.
It is the second consecutive year that the Crown Inn has scooped the award for Northumberland. The Humshaugh pub is as well known for pulling pints as it is for its car-themed events, which bring everything from microcars to Mclarens to the peaceful village near Hadrian’s Wall.
A post on the Crown Inn’s Facebook page read: “Huge thanks has to go to all of our customers who continue to support us but without question the biggest thanks goes to our staff, a small team which ... show we’re capable of achieving incredible things.”
In Newcastle city centre, NQ64 has become a firm favourite for gamers since it took over the former Intermezzo
site on Pilgrim Street in July 2022. The retro gaming bar is part of a nationwide chain which hosts FIFA and Mario Kart tournaments, as well as having a host of arcade games at visitors’ disposal.
A spokesperson said: “We’re over the moon to be named the Tyne and Wear Pub & Bar of the Year. This recognition is a testament to our team’s commitment to serving up the perfect vibes.”
Down in County Durham, the Bay Horse in Hurworth picks up the award after being named in the Michelin Guide once again in February. The gastropub is set in a 15th century coaching inn has picked up a slew of awards since opening in 2008.
Tristan O’hana, editor of Pub & Bar Magazine, which runs the event, said: “The fact that we had record entries for the 2024 National Pub & Bar Awards tells us two things. One is how highly the industry regards these accolades.
“But, also, it shows that more operators are in need of really positive and strong publicity to help drive business at the moment. Pubs and bars are facing some of the biggest challenges in recent history, so if the National Pub & Bar Awards can help by lifting sales across these venues, then we’re delighted to play our part.”
The National Pub & Bar Awards grand final concludes with a ceremony in London on June 26.