A PUB near Stockbridge has been named the winner of the Best Country/Village Pub.

The Mayfly, run by Darren Felvus, has been named the winner of the category in this year’s Griffin Trophy – the annual Pub of the Year competition from Fuller, Smith and Turner.

Darren Felvus said: “The last two years have seen The Mayfly experience unprecedented circumstances and being back open, serving our wonderful customers, and then winning this award is the perfect end to the year. This award isn’t just for me though, it’s for my fantastic team.

"We worked hard during the various lockdowns to keep in contact and support each other and I just love being back together doing what we do best – making sure our customers have a great time and come back again, and again.”

The Mayfly is a stunning pub on the banks of the River Test. Its large outside area and pretty location has made it a real favourite – and especially so post lockdown, with an increase in the popularity of al fresco dining. Darren and his team combine the best of British hospitality with a wide range of menu dishes from local suppliers and the pub is popular with locals, ramblers and tourists alike.

The pub, which was beautifully refurbished in January 2019, also offers private dining spaces which have proved very popular for local birthday and other celebrations.

The Griffin Trophy is open to all Fuller’s 210 Managed Pubs and Hotels and 174 Tenanted Inns. Following an extensive selection process, the eight finalists of The Griffin Trophy were all visited by chairman Michael Turner, chief executive Simon Emeny, and marketing director Jane Jones to choose the category and overall winners. 

Michael Turner said: “Darren and his team, aided by the recent refurbishment, have reinvigorated The Mayfly making it a vibrant and busy pub that perfectly complements the stunning scenery around it. His commitment to exceptional customer service is reflected in the feedback scores the pub receives and The Mayfly continues to grow both its sales and its reputation."

“The Mayfly is a perfect example of an excellent pub – a great team, delicious, fresh-cooked food from local suppliers, a wide and interesting range of beers, wines and spirits and a view to die for. It really is outstanding.”

Darren’s prize for winning the category comprises a £2,000 holiday voucher, a staff party, and an engraved plaque for the pub.

For more inforamtion, visit: https://www.mayflyfullerton.co.uk.