Pub Awards: Best Spirits Pub – The Smugglers Cove, Liverpool

This place is all about the experience, and you could be forgiven for feeling like you’ve almost stepped back in time upon entering. The theming is first rate and fans of a popular television show maybe forgiven for being disappointed that Poldark isn’t propping up the bar. In fact the theming has been so successful, crowds of small children are regularly disappointed to find out that Captain Jack won’t be putting in an appearance either!

Boasting a world record for the most extensive collection of rums in any bar, it’s obvious from the outset that this is a bar that likes its rum, and a fantastic display case around the back of the bar allows customers to peruse the extensive range at their leisure.

Promotional rum clubs have proved wildly successful and have allowed engagement with a very diverse range of customers on a completely new level.

Set in the Albert Dock, the bar has even managed to engage with fellow outlets to organise promotional events, and plans to increase that activity into the future.
Training is comprehensive and as a result staff are switched on, bright and eager to make the most of every customer interaction.

Judge Ed Bedington said: “This is a stunning venue which is proving a massive draw for visitors to not just the Albert Dock, but Liverpool itself. People are coming out of the city centre to visit this exceptional bar. The focus on rum and the incredible theming throughout make it a very special experience, and the excellent team ensure that experience is memorable. A worthy winner of Spirit Bar of the Year and one that’s well worth a visit for anyone operating in the spirits and cocktail sector.”