A SALISBURY pub with an outdoor theatre has been commended for its live entertainment and family feel.

Very much loved by the community, The Winchester Gate has, like the rest of the hospitality industry, had a tough 2020, but its homely touches and selection of live entertainment has not gone unnoticed.

As part of the Journal’s ‘pub of the week’ feature, one customer said: “[The Winchester Gate] just makes you feel at home. This is a place for anyone. It doesn’t matter if you’re a family, a group of friends or single.”

The nominator described the pub as “fantastic” with “a warm welcome whenever you come in”, adding that it covers everything “from poetry to music nights”.

Landlords Robb and Abi Blake, who took over the Winchester Gate in 2016, are looking forward to the return of their customers and live music, and to show how the pub has been transformed during the coronavirus pandemic.

The pub had reopened for events in between the Covid-19 lockdowns, but under the most recent restrictions it has been forced to shut once more.

Robb said he was “super chuffed” to find out the watering hole had been put forward by residents, adding: “It is amazing, we’re really into being a part of the community.”

When asked what makes the Winchester Gate special, Robb told the Journal there is “a good, local vibe”, adding: “We’re one of the only live music venues left in Salisbury. We just punch above our weight music-wise, we’re so lucky to get some of the performers and acts that we do.”

Thanks to a Culture Recovery Fund from the Government in October, some of the pub’s areas and facilities are getting refurbished, including the new outside performance space, kitchen and toilets.

Robb added: “It’s all going forward despite what is going on, we just need to remain positive.”

To nominate your favourite local pubs click here.