Winchester venues set the bar high with 11 pubs and restaurants celebrated at local awards

Food and drink venues from across Winchester came together last week for the city’s seventh annual Best Bar None Awards.

O’Neill’s, Overall Winner

Held on Wednesday 6th September at Winchester Cathedral’s Paul Woodhouse Suite, the ceremony drew 11 pubs, bars and restaurants, along with members of the Business Improvement District.

Each of them earned national accreditation for their efforts upholding a high standard and providing a safe environment for night-time punters.

Jane Bastock, Business Crime Reduction Manager at Winchester BID, said: “This is the seventh year we’ve taken part in this local scheme – the longest running Best Bar None scheme in Hampshire.

“It’s a great achievement for all the venues who’ve worked exceptionally hard, above and beyond the required standards.

The Westgate, Overall Runner Up

“And it’s an excellent endorsement not only for the individual venues directly, but collectively for Winchester’s night-time economy, helping to establish Winchester as a safe and responsible evening destination.”

O’Neill’s was crowned Overall Winner at the ceremony, with The Westgate taking Overall Runner Up and The Eclipse Inn scooping the title of Best Independent.

They were each accredited with a gold award, alongside Alfies and The Mucky Duck.

A further six silver awards went to The Bishop on the Bridge, The County Arms, The Old Gaolhouse, Pitcher and Piano, The Royal Oak and The William Walker.

The Eclipse Inn, Best Independent Venue

Each team was presented their award by Paul Spencer, Executive Director at Winchester BID.

He added: “Congratulations to this year’s Best Bar None accredited venues.

“They should all be very pleased of their achievements and of how well-managed their venues are.”

Support for the awards came from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, Winchester City Council and the University of Winchester.

• winchesterbid.co.uk