2 days ago
Gorsedd: Druid Inn voted one of UK's best-looking pubs
A FLINTSHIRE venue has officially been ranked as one of the 'best-looking' pubs in the UK.
After closing down in June 2023, it was announced a month later that Jerry Brunning had purchased the historic Druid Inn, at Gorsedd near Holywell, for his Pubs Ltd group.
General manager Ray Faulder-Jones then stepped in to the role early last year before the pub - rumoured to date back to the 12th century - re-opened during in March 2024.
Now, one year on, the venue has become a vital community hub offering plenty of events and great food for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.
And that popularity has been cemented once more as the pub has this week been announced as the winner in the 'refurbishment' category of CAMRA's Pub Design Awards 2025.
The competition celebrates some of the most visually stunning, historically significant and lovingly restored pubs across the UK.
Judged by a panel of experts in design and conservation, the awards highlight both the importance and vulnerability of pub architecture, from ornate Victorian gin palaces to imaginative contemporary spaces.
The Refurbishment category rewards the best refurbishment of an existing pub building, ranging from a complete gutting to enhancing the design of what was originally in the pub.
Judges praised this extensive, but thoughtful, refurbishment noting the pub's cosy nooks and crannies, a welcoming central bar, comfortable seating, quirky artwork, soft lighting, roaring fireplaces and a private dining room.
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Andrew Davison, Chair of the Pub Design Awards judging panel, said: 'The Pub Design Awards recognise the highest standards of pub architecture, rewarding artistic flair and painstaking historical conservation.
"From inviting streetcorner locals to striking medieval coaching inns, there are some stunning pubs in the UK, and the craftmanship involved in making these venues a gorgeous place to enjoy cask beer and real cider or perry should rightfully be applauded.
"I encourage heritage enthusiasts and pub lovers alike to visit these inspirational buildings."
Click on the gallery above to see pictures of the Druid Inn.
