THE popular Twice Brewed Inn has been announced as the North East regional winner in the Countryside Alliance Awards best pub category.

Judges said that “The Twice Brewed Inn prides itself on showcasing top quality beer and local produce”.

They added the team at the pub, near Bardon Mill, “go out of their way to make sure you feel welcome”.

Nicknamed the ‘Rural Oscars’, the awards are the Countryside Alliance’s annual celebration of British food & farming, enterprise and heritage through our small hard-working businesses. 

The awards, now in their fifteenth year, are set apart from other award schemes because they are driven by public nomination, offering customers the chance to tell the awards’ organisers why their favourite businesses are worthy of national acclaim.

They received 18,000 nominations this year.

Due to Covid-19 and subsequent lockdown restrictions, the judging for the 2020 Awards was postponed but they were judged virtually in the spring of 2021, with businesses showcasing their talent and telling their story over webcam instead.

Hexham MP Guy Opperman said: “It is terrific that the Twice Brewed Inn has been recognised by this prestigious award, and I was delighted to visit again to meet the team and congratulate them on their achievement.

“It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the quality home brewed beers and delicious food the Twice Brewed Inn has to offer – make sure you visit this summer!”

The other categories for the Awards included best butcher, best village shop, local food champions, and rural enterprise champions.

Countryside Alliance Awards Director Sarah Lee said: “This year’s regional finalists are all truly exceptional. We have been overwhelmed by nominations this year. 

“The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses and not just their produce or services. 

“They exist to sing the praises of those who work hard to keep our communities and rural economy ticking, but don’t seek the spotlight. 

“These awards provide a cause for celebration in a time of great uncertainty in the countryside. 

“Our local produce is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.”

The Twice Brewed Inn is one of the most visited locations for both tourists and locals in the area.

They run stargazing events, and more information about this can be found at https://www.twicebrewedinn.co.uk/stargazing.