Expectations are high. After all you don't win Nottinghamshire Pub of the Year without being at the top of your game. The Radcliffe, which ticked all the boxes for judges from the National Pub & Bar Awards, has the feel of an old country inn with its simple black and white façade, leaded light windows, bunting and towering trees in the car park off Shelford Road.
However, inside is airy and modern, with a contemporary design transforming what was once a drinking den in Radcliffe-on-Trent into a destination gastro pub. On colder days there's a roaring fire but there's no need for that on a warm spring day and in the coming weeks the pub's sprawling beer garden and terrace is sure to be in demand.
The pub was judged on the owners' knowledge and overall execution, design, team training, investment, marketing, events and, last but not least, the food and drink. With such an accolade you know there won't be the ping of a microwave - the food is going to be crafted out of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
