A historic country pub has been named the best in Devon for the second year in a row. The Masons Arms in Branscombe dates back to the 1400s and had a £2m refurbishment in 2022.
The St Austell Brewery pub was included in the Sunday Times’ ‘100 Best Places to Stay in the UK’ list last month. And it is celebrating another accolade after being crowned county winner at the National Pub & Bar Awards.
Manager David Putt said he was "ecstatic and blown away" at its latest honour. And it means the pub is now up for National Pub of the Year at the grand final in June.
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He said: "There are so many amazing pubs in Devon so it’s an honour to be named best in the county. We were very proud be win the accolade in 2023 - our opening year - but even prouder to have been nominated again for the second year in a row.
"We have continued to improve our offer and deliver consistently high-quality guest experiences during that time, which is testament to our brilliant team at the Masons Arms. We’re really looking forward to the grand finals in June.”
The pub's 2022 refurbishment saw its dining rooms redesigned with "dark and warm tones" and decorated with cosy furnishings, including in a private dining space. Comfortable seating was added throughout the bar and dining area, there are log fires at each end of the pub and the site has 28 newly refurbished bedrooms.
It puts on a range of community events, including the Branscombe Beer Festival. The event will return from May 3-6 and will feature 20 beers from five breweries with a special beer made by The Masons Arms in collaboration with Bath Ales.
