Historic Nantwich landmark The Black Lion is celebrating after being named today in The Telegraph’s prestigious guide to the country’s Best Pubs.
The centuries old Welsh Row hostelry, the oldest in Nantwich, is hailed the ‘best pub in town’ by The Telegraph’s award-winning beer, food and travel journalist Will Hawkes after a ‘mystery shop’ earlier in the year.
The guide published this morning lists 650 pubs chosen for their history, character, quality and hospitality.
The Black Lion, run by renowned chef Darren Snell, is the only pub in Nantwich to be listed.
Will Hawkes was impressed by its ‘cheery locals’ and traditional charm.
He writes in the guide: “The constraints and contours of the Black Lion make it hard to avoid conversation – even if you’re not involved.
“This is an atmospheric and friendly place, full of locals who come for the excellent beer as much as the ambiance.
“In a town not short on pubs, this is the best.”
This year The Telegraph has been campaigning to save Britain’s pubs, chronicling the economic pressures crippling the hospitality industry as an average of four pubs per day close in 2026.
The Telegraph’s 650 Best Pubs Guide aims to encourage people to discover some of the UK’s finest venues.
Will adds: “Despite desperate operating conditions, Britain still has hundreds of magnificent pubs, offering warmth, atmosphere, character and fantastic drinks. You’ll find the best of the best in our guide.”
Dating back more than 360 years or more, the timber-framed Black Lion is regarded as the oldest pub in Nantwich.
There’s 1664 above the door but local historians believe its architectural features make the building even older, some saying mid-to late 1500s.
Darren (pictured), a former chef at the famous Dorchester Hotel in London, has brought his fine-dining standards and techniques to the Black Lion’s kitchen.
High standards of beer-keeping is recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) with the freehouse listed in its Good Beer Guide every year since digital records began.
“We’re absolutely delighted,” said Darren.
“To be recognised by The Telegraph in a list celebrating the very best pubs in Britain is a huge honour, particularly when you’re representing a historic town like Nantwich.
“We’ve worked incredibly hard to preserve everything people love about The Black Lion while continuing to improve what we offer.
“We’re proud to be a traditional pub with traditional values.
“In a world where so much communication has become digital, online and often faceless, we believe the local pub remains one of the few places where people can still meet, talk and enjoy each other’s company face to face.
“The bar has always been the heart of a proper pub. It’s where conversations begin, friendships are formed and stories are shared.
“As landlord, I actively encourage that. We want people to come in, chat to one another, make new friends and leave feeling they’ve been part of something, not simply visited somewhere.
“One of the things that makes The Black Lion so special is our locals and regulars. They create the warm, welcoming atmosphere that people comment on time and time again, and they’re every bit as much a part of this recognition as we are.
“Without them, the pub simply wouldn’t have the character that visitors experience.
“So Will Hawkes’ comments about the conversations taking place in the pub really struck a chord with me because that’s exactly what we hope people will find when they walk through our door.
“You can’t manufacture that kind of atmosphere – it’s created by genuine people enjoying each other’s company.
“It’s a proper traditional pub with great food, great beer and a warm welcome, and that’s exactly what we’re passionate about.”
The recognition comes at a time when many pubs are facing unprecedented pressures.
Nantwich hospitality venues have led their own campaign against crippling VAT and other costs.
Darren added: “It’s an incredibly tough time for hospitality. Rising energy costs, increasing wages, higher business costs and changing consumer habits mean every day brings new challenges.
“Independent pubs have had to become more resilient than ever just to keep their doors open.
“That’s why recognition like this really matters. It shines a spotlight on traditional independent pubs and reminds people of the important role they still play within their communities.
“Every time someone comes through our doors for a drink or a meal they’re not only supporting an independent business, they’re helping preserve an important piece of Nantwich’s history and a place where people can still come together.
“We’re incredibly grateful for that support and thrilled to receive this national recognition.”
Recent Comments