A people-led pub that 'cares deeply about its guests' has been recognised as one of the best in the region.
The Bell & Crown, in Zeals, was named among the 'best in the south west' by the National Pub & Bar Awards 2023.
It is owned by Salisbury-based brother and sister Ethan and Jordan Davids, along with their business partner Tommy Tullis, as part of the Chickpea Group.
The pub will be crowned at a red carpet celebration in London on June 28 when 15 regional winners will be announced, alongside the prestigious overall National Pub & Bar of the Year.
Ethan said the team are "super chuffed" to be included and he is looking forward to the award ceremony.
He added: "The Bell and Crown is a real gem for us. The team there are fantastic - led by Zoe Guild and Jamie McDougall - and has a real gift in attracting hospitality professionals who know their stuff and are in it for the long haul and really buy in to what we are trying to do."
A total of 94 venues across the UK have scooped awards after being selected based on overall best practices across several operational categories.
The awards aim to highlight the positive and inspiring work being carried out across the UK’s hospitality industry.
The Chickpea Group also owns the Pembroke Arms in Wilton, the Grosvenor Arms in Hindon, the Queen's Head in Broad Chalke and the Dog and Gun in Netheravon.
Ethan said the group is a "people-led and standards-driven business" that cares deeply about looking after its guests and team.
The pub was previously named The Times and The Sunday Times's 2023 'Pub of the Year'.
"What the Bell and Crown has achieved in such a short period since opening our six bedrooms is beyond fantastic, and something we are very proud of," Ethan added.
He extended his thanks to the whole team at the Bell and Crown, his hard-working suppliers and loyal guests.
Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which runs the awards said he was "overwhelmed" by the quality of entries this year.
He said: "It just goes to show what magnificent work is going on across the UK hospitality sector.
"Now, more than ever, it’s vital that people support their local pubs and bars. So, ahead of the long Easter weekend, why not check out the finest in your county?"
At the grand final, other awards will be handed out, including the Pub Brand of the Year, Bar Brand of the Year, Pub Chef of the Year and Sustainable Pub & Bar of the Year.
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