A POPULAR pub just outside of Hexham has been recognised as being among the best in the UK.

The Rat Inn, Anick, has been named one of the Top 50 Gastropubs by Estrella Damm.

The list is compiled each year to celebrate excellence within pub gastronomy.

The Rat, which was once named the best pub in Northumberland, came in at number 26.

It comes after the pub owned by Karen Errington and Paul Mason made the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) Good Beer Guide again - having made the guide every year for 15 years.

Estrella Damm said the Rat was one of the long-serving pubs on its list and described it as an "outstanding countryside pub that exudes character and a significant amount of talent in the kitchen.

"Truly a stunning pub, filled to the brim with personality, love and character, this is one to visit."

Top 50 Gastropubs publisher Chris Lowe said: “After a tough few years for the hospitality industry, we are thrilled to see such a strong list of contenders this year.

"The Top 50 Gastropubs provides a platform for food lovers to explore the very best offerings across the UK.”