Michelin Eating Out In Pubs 2016: Pub of the Year announced

The Butchers Arms in Eldersfield has won Pub of the Year 2016 in the Michelin Guide to Eating out in Pubs 2016, from a selection of nearly 600 pubs across the UK and Ireland.

The pub stands on the edge of a small hamlet, 10 miles north of Gloucester. The pub is run by James and Elizabeth Winter and the cosy bar draws in the locals and visitors come from far and wide to try the food, which is served amongst low beams and roaring fires.

James said: “I’ve been cooking the food I love to eat for the past eight years at The Butchers Arms, so it’s great to hear that other people love it as much as I do. This award is not only incredible recognition for us as an individual pub, but it actually supports and recognises pubs in general across the UK. We couldn’t be more thrilled!”

James' culinary education began at an early age as he spent his childhood holidaying in France visiting the markets, where he developed an appreciation of natural produce.

These early influences can be seen in his menus which evolve constantly throughout the day as new produce arrives, and in his use of the whole animal from nose to tail.

Rebecca Burr, Editor of the guide said, “When they started out, owners James and Elizabeth’s aim was to open a ‘real’ country pub: a laid-back home-from-home where the locals could come to meet after work and have a good meal – and despite their runaway culinary success, that’s exactly the way it has stayed. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly and Elizabeth and her sister Louisa are natural hostesses, who welcome one and all with bright smiles.

“We first awarded The Butchers Arms a Michelin Star in 2011 and over the years James’ cooking has continued to go from strength to strength. He’s a modest, hardworking young man who knows what he wants and his confidence is backed up by his technical skills. His cooking continues to surprise and delight and I can’t wait for my next visit.”

>>>See the Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland here