Waterloo Street pub named best in the County

Peadar O’Donnell's on Waterloo Street in Derry has been named the best pub in the county and is one of six pubs named the best in the country.

The popular pub will now compete for top honours in a national competition against fellow County winners; Bogan's in Co Tyrone, Hearth in Co Antrim, The Hole in the Wall in Co Armagh, The Maghera Inn in Co Down and The Taphouse in Co Fermanagh.

There were 94 pubs and bars across England, Scotland and Wales and Northern Ireland, who all won in their respective counties, and are now all in contention at the 2023 National Pub & Bar of the Year awards.

The awards aim to highlight the positive and inspiring work being carried out across the UK’s hospitality industry with those in the running selected on overall best practice across several operational categories.

Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine which runs the awards, said: “We were overwhelmed by the level and quality of entries this year.

“It just goes to show what magnificent work is going on across the UK hospitality sector.

“With outrageous energy costs, recruitment shortages and a punishing taxation system, these businesses are once again facing tough times.

“Now, more than ever, it’s vital that people support their local pubs and bars.

“So, ahead of the long Easter weekend, why not check out the finest in your county?”

Contenders from the North of Ireland will all compete for individual prizes including the Pub Brand of the Year, Bar Brand of the Year, Pub Chef of the Year and Sustainable Pub and Bar of the Year.

The grand final awards ceremony takes place in London on Wednesday, June 28.