The Gloucester Old Spot in Bristol has been named ‘Stonegate Group Pub Partners Pub of the Year’ at the 2024 Great British Pub Awards, marking another major milestone as the pub gears up to celebrate its 10th anniversary this month.
The awards, held at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester, shine a light on the finest pubs across the UK, and the Gloucester Old Spot stood out as a great all-rounder, impressing judges with its friendly service, excellent food and vibrant community spirit.
The award, presented by Stonegate Group’s Managing Director Lee Reed, recognised the pub’s commitment to excellence and its role as a community hub, bringing people together and serving as a vibrant heart of the local area.
Publican Amy Devenish, who took over the pub in 2014 after an extensive refurbishment, said: “We’re overjoyed to be named Stonegate Pub Partners Pub of the Year, especially as we celebrate our 10th birthday. When I took on the Gloucester Old Spot, it had been through a difficult period, changing hands eight times in just six years. It was even rumoured to be at risk of demolition.
“I saw its potential and knew that with some love, we could create something special for the local community. Now, 10 years later, we’ve built a pub that feels like home to so many, and this award is a testament to our journey.”
Originally known as The Kellaway Arms, the pub was established on Kellaway Avenue, an area once known as Golden Hill for its buttercup fields. Over the years, it transitioned from an off-licence into a pub and changed names multiple times. In 2014, Amy rebranded it as the Gloucester Old Spot, taking inspiration from the famous breed of pig, and set about transforming the space into the family-friendly, community hub it is today.
The Gloucester Old Spot is celebrated for its cosy, homely feel, delicious, locally sourced food, and colourful, family-friendly beer garden. It’s the perfect spot for everything from a pint with friends to a leisurely Sunday roast. The pub’s garden, with its heated terrace, marquee and vibrant atmosphere, is a local favourite, particularly during the warmer months.
The timing of this award is perfect as the Gloucester Old Spot gears up for its 10th birthday celebrations on Saturday 28th September, which will include live music, face painting, kids’ entertainment, and more – a real celebration for the whole community.
Find out more about the Gloucester Old Spot, and its 10th birthday celebrations, at www.theoldspotbristol.co.uk.