The Griffin Inn, Swithland, Loughborough, was crowned top of the crops in Everards annual garden competition for its miniature Old John ruin, referred to by regulars as ‘Old John’ after licensee John Cooledge.
Cooledge improved the grounds of the pub’s courtyard and Old Stables, as well as its herb and Pimm’s gardens. He also has plans to develop the field at the back of the pub over the next few years.
The Griffin was among 50 entrants to the competition, the highest rate of entrants to date, which marked pubs on a range of criteria including kerb appeal, effectiveness of outdoor space and creativity. Winners went through three rounds of judging to achieve the accolade, with competitors being whittled down to four semi-finalists per category.
The Angel Inn, in Witney, Oxfordshire was also awarded for its outdoor space in Brakspear’s In Bloom competition.
Manager Lynn Tranter was given £2,000 towards improvements to the pub’s outdoor area, after customers voted for the pub in a competition throughout the summer. Tranter said she will spend the money on new garden furniture.
The Lamb Inn at Milton, Cambridgeshire came a close second, winning 10 Brakspear garden parasols as the runner-up prize.