A WINTERSLOW pub where a romance began has now been praised for its “homely atmosphere”, with several customers looking back on fond memories from their time inside the establishment.

As part of the Journal’s ‘pub of the week’ feature, nominee Carys Steedon commended The Lord Nelson Arms for its Covid-friendly measures, including outdoor pod-style seating, and for being a pub at “the heart of the community”.

She added: “This is the place I met my husband, where we had our first drink on our wedding day, and the place we gravitate to for all occasions.”

Another customer, who said their favourite Lord Nelson memory was a Halloween party in 2018, said: “The Lord Nelson is a beautiful family-run pub with a friendly, homely atmosphere.

“The food is fantastic and the service is excellent. I love the newly refurbished pods in the garden and will definitely spend a lot of time in one nearer the summer with friends and family.”

Landlord Ash Patel, who runs the site with wife Jasmin, said it was “amazing” to be nominated, adding: “In these hard times it is great to be appreciated and know we’re doing something right.

“We created a safe environment through Covid-friendly external pods. We just wanted people to come and enjoy the pub.”

The pair has been running the pub for around three years, and have been described by a third nominee as “the best owners by far”.

The food and takeaway service were also positives highlighted by pub-goers.

Ash added: “Of all the pubs I have had, this is a lovely village with lovely people.

"We just want to thank all of our customers for their great support, they are just fantastic. It has been a tough year for this particular trade.”

To nominate your favourite local pubs click HERE.

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