A TRADITIONAL Tynedale pub, which is known as a top-notch dining destination, has been ranked at number 13 in a prestigious list of the UK’s top 50 gastro pubs.

Since 2013, the Rat Inn at Anick has been climbing the list which is compiled by the pub trade magazine, The Publican’s Morning Advertiser, and unveiled each January.

And now this year it appears as the North-East’s highest flying eatery, and the only pub to feature in Northumberland, after rising up from number 38 last year.

Run by experienced restaurateurs Phil Mason and Karen Errington, the Rat benefits from being surrounded by plentiful local farms and, during shooting season, a wealth of game which is incorporated into the menu.

Karen said: “This is an amazing achievement for us to be ranked so high in this national award, especially when you see the calibre of places included, many with Michelin stars.

“This year we have climbed an amazing 25 places, at a time when many pubs are reducing hours, and we have extended ours to seven days per week and have expanded our kitchen team.”

For the full story, pick up the Hexham Courant this Friday.