What makes Hungry Horse the best pubs?
You can’t beat a good pub. They bring together friends and family to enjoy great food at great prices. But what makes a pub great? They’ve got to nail the balance of serving drinks, entertaining you with live sports and music as well as keeping your kids happy.
Let’s take a look at some of the best things a pub can do. And why Hungry Horse pubs near you keep you coming back for more.
What makes a great pub?
There are a whole load of ways a pub can thrive, no matter where they are in the country. We’re not saying that without any of these features a pub is worth any less. But depending on what floats your boat, it could be key in choosing your new local.
Top drink selection
There are pubs that do food and pubs that don’t. What makes them a pub is their beer, wines, spirits and soft drinks. Without these, can you really call somewhere a pub? Probably not. So when you’re out looking for your new local, you’ve got to make sure it’s a pub that treats its drinks seriously. From coffees to cocktails, pilsner to pitchers, and summer drinks to winter warmers. You can judge a pub on this alone.
Great value food
Pubs don’t need to serve food to be a pub, but the best ones do. We’re not talking about a packet of crisps and some Worcestershire sauce. No, the best pubs will have a menu that puts their own spin on beloved bites like fish and chips, burgers and, of course, roast dinners. What’s even better are pubs that serve vegan and vegetarian food, offer summertime specials and sharing plates for big groups.
Epic beer gardens
The best pubs stand out all year round. But sipping an ice-cold pint in the summer sun, or under the rays of a warming heat lamp at night is really something else. The best way to get this feeling is with a brilliant beer garden. Pubs with beer gardens get you out in the fresh air and often give you a great view. All while giving you and your group the top-notch service you expect from the best pubs around.
Kids’ play areas
Bringing along your kids to the pub? It can be hard to keep them entertained while you tuck into a nice meal. The best pubs have their own play areas where your little ones can have fun. Pubs with outdoor play areas are perfect for when you’re out enjoying the sun, with swings and seesaws for your kids to use up their endless energy. And when the weather isn’t so great, some pubs even have indoor play areas – like our Wacky Warehouse pubs – to occupy the little ones.
The best sporting action
Pubs and live sports go together like chocolate and peanut butter. Pubs showing sports on big screens can make a place your new favourite spot in no time. From the football to the cricket, grab some drinks, bring your mates and know that you can enjoy the game from the comfort of your local.
For when you’re away
When you’re out on the road, keep that pubby feeling by staying in a pub hotel. Wolf down some great food and drink before heading upstairs to bed. All this without having to grab a taxi or walk back to a standard hotel. And, though it’s not a deal-breaker, pubs with hotels are a fantastic feature to add to our list. They can also provide you with a brilliant breakfast to set you up for the day.
What does your perfect pub look like?
That’s our list. What do you think? Does every pub need these features? Of course not, but the very best pubs have them and even more to enjoy. Searching for a pub that ticks all your boxes? Why not find a pub near you and see how it stacks up.