The Best Pubs 2024 voted for by Hexham Courant readers

The Hexham Courant has launched a campaign to find the best pub in our area, voted for by our readers.

The first five finalists in the running for the Hexham Courant's Best Pub 2024 are:

• The Black Bull, Corbridge
• The Golden Lion, Corbridge

• The Heart of Northumberland, Hexham

• Milecastle Inn, Haltwhistle

• The Robin Hood Inn, East Wallhouses

The Black Bull, Corbridge

A spokesperson from the Black Bull said they were 'humbled' to have been chosen by readers as one of the top 10 pubs in the area.

Staff at the Black Bull (Image: Supplied)

"We're really proud of our pub and the fantastic service we provide whether that be popping in for a drink with friends, visiting us whilst on holiday or having a family meal, we're the perfect place to cater for you.

"We really come into our own in the winter with our cosy atmosphere, real fires and warm friendly environment.

The Black Bull was nominated as one of the best pubs by readers (Image: Supplied)

"We offer the best real ale range in the area accompanied by real ciders, an excellent wine list and an extensive range of soft drinks and zero-alcohol options.

"Our food menu changes with the seasons with excellent lunch and main menu options, alongside ever-changing specials," they added.

The Golden Lion, Corbridge

Lauren Proud and her family have run the Golden Lion in Corbridge since November 2023.

Adrian Proud, wife Pam, and children Daniel and Lauren run the Golden Lion (Image: Andrew Heptinstall Photography)

Speaking of being nominated, she said: "It is lovely, we haven't been here for that long and to try and get the Golden Lion back up and running has been a lot of hard work. It's nice to be recognised by others.

"I hope it's because people have seen us work really hard and hopefully it's the hospitality we bring, the warmth, friendliness and customer service," she said.

The Golden Lion (Image: Andrew Heptinstall Photography)

Since taking over the pub, they have fully decorated the entire premises and renovated the kitchen to a high standard.

"We've also fully renovated all of our bed and breakfast rooms. We've brought in an excellent team with us.

"When we took over the Golden Lion, we wanted to create a space that was comfortable and welcoming to all, so as our customers have nominated this for us it is really heartwarming."

The Heart of Northumberland, Hexham

The Heart of Northumberland was also nominated by readers.

The bar at The Heart of Northumberland (Image: Supplied)

Alan Philipson owned the pub for nine years and has now sold the pub to new owners.

He said: "I think why we were nominated was probably summed up by what one of my regulars told me today - 'we were always made to feel so welcome and comfortable, it’s the first time in my life I’ve ever been a pub local and I’m almost 60'.

Alan added: "I’m proud that the Heart has been nominated and I’ve lost track of the amount of times I’ve been told how much people love the place. The passion of customers, both locals and visitors, for what we do is what makes us tick, even after nine years since opening."

Milecastle Inn, Haltwhistle

The Milecastle Inn, near Hadrian's Wall, is a family-run pub which produces 'exceptional food'.

Owned and operated by Mandy and Scott Donaldson, along with their daughter Alice Calder and her partner Connagh Scott, The Milecastle Inn is a true family affair.

Two years ago, Mandy and Scott purchased The Milecastle Inn, which they say is a 'welcoming spot that has quickly become known for its exceptional food and friendly atmosphere'.

Alice and Connagh outside The Milecastle Inn (Image: Supplied)

Mandy works closely with Alice in the kitchen to create hearty, homecooked meals with their other kitchen staff, Jayne, Paula and Katie.

As head chef, Alice has infused the menu with creativity and quality, making the pub’s pies a particular stand out.

Mandy also manages the holiday cottages attached to the pub, offering visitors a cosy place to stay. Connagh, the bar manager, ensures that the drinks are flowing and the customers are happy along with his front-of-house team.

The Milecastle Inn has built a strong reputation, particularly for its pies and Sunday dinners. 

While Mandy and Alice handle the culinary side of the business, Scott plays a unique role. With a full-time job elsewhere, Scott’s contribution to the pub is primarily as an enthusiastic supporter, dedicated to sampling the ale and often gets roped into cleaning the pub on his days off.

The Robin Hood Inn, East Wallhouses

The Robin Hood has been run by Billy and Kath Morris and their dedicated team for the last eight years.

They say their main aim is to deliver a 'memorable experience' for all customers.

Kath said: "We are a traditional pub with fresh food, great beer, local ales and accommodation situated on Hadrian's Wall Path and we get guests from all over the world.

"We do overnight stays for weddings or just a weekend away in Northumberland. Our team's overall mission is for all our customers to have a wonderful experience when visiting the Robin Hood."

Hexham Courant readers will now be able to vote for their favourite finalist by picking up a copy of the newspaper from Thursday, September 5.

Voting slips will be provided in the September 5 and September 12 editions before voting closes the following week.

After this final voting stage has concluded, the winner will be crowned as the Hexham Courant's Best Pub 2024 in the edition published on September 26.