FROM destination pubs worth making a detour for, to much loved locals, the 21st edition of the AA Pub Guide includes many old favourites, plus new and interesting destinations for eating and drinking making it into the Guide for the first time this year.

The Pub Guide 2020 offers an in-depth guide to the UK’s pub scene by county, with a detailed description of each pub, from directions and opening times, to whether the pub is child or dog friendly, to parking or garden options, with an insight into each pub’s real ale, real cider and wine by the glass offerings. The Guide uses an easy-to-follow symbol system to help readers can find the perfect pub for them.

Of the 2,000 pubs included, there are 500 ‘Pick of the Pubs’ entries, including four in the Post area, representing the very best AA-recommended pubs in each region, as selected by the AA’s expert inspectors, editorial team, and reader suggestions.

These are the Wellington Hotel in Boscastle, Port Gaverne Hotel, The Mill House Inn, Trebarwith and the Arundell Arms in Lifton.

Many of the pubs included in this year’s guide are also well known for their culinary offerings; over 250 of the pubs in The Pub Guide 2020 have been awarded AA Rosettes for the quality of their cuisine, while the best pubs for accommodation are highlighted by an AA Star.

While pub numbers have decreased in the UK since the Guide launched in 1998, the quality of the UK’s pub scene is better than ever, with a record-number of pubs included in the Guide this year.

In addition to the pub listings, The Pub Guide 2020 includes articles on the latest trends in the pub and bar scene, such as the rising popularity of spirits, as well as details of the winners of the new AA Inn of the Year and the annual AA Pub of the Year awards, recognising the best pubs in England, Scotland and Wales.

The Pub Guide 2020 is available for £15.99 online and has been in bookstores since Monday, July 1.

The Wellington’s owner, Jon Scott, was delighted that their achievement of reaching four stars as a coaching inn now matches their two AA Rosettes for food.

He said: “Having owned The Wellington for eight years now and hearing many a tale of the building’s long history, it seemed fitting to reflect its history as an old coaching inn by joining other great establishments in the AA’s Inn classification. This not only reflects more closely the history of The Wellington but is also better aligned with our vision as a relaxing comfy place to eat, drink and stay. We are delighted to have been awarded four Gold Stars by the AA and it is a credit to the whole team at The Wellington.”

Robert Martin, who conducted the review for the AA, commented: “Hospitality and service proved a considerable strength at The Wellington, with a positive and guest orientated approach displayed by all members of staff. There is a true guest focused approached here which creates a real sense of inclusion. The food impressed, continuing the high levels of skill and execution noted on previous visits. Scallops and sweetbreads were enjoyed as was the pork tenderloin main — very good level of ingredients and sourcing here and the flavours are very well pronounced — AA Two Rosette Award easily maintained and well deserved.”

Staff at the Arundell Arms were also delighted.

A hotel spokesperson said: “Receiving praise and fabulous feedback for the food and dining experience we provide here at The Arundell Arms is always tremendous, whether it’s in person, by email, letter or online review. 

“Gaining awards and accolades is rewarding for the entire team throughout the hotel; from the person who’s welcomed you on arrival, laid out your table, served your food, and even washed the dishes after your meal. 

“We were complimented on our welcoming atmosphere, use of local and seasonal products throughout the menu and the great selection of drinks we offer, many from the local area.

“As a family-run (remained under the same family ownership now for 59 years) independent hotel it’s so important to us to continue to offer the high service and warm welcomes we always have. But we also have to move with the times and provide what our customers and guests are now looking for. For example, we had electric car charging points, including six Tesla Superchargers installed in our car park and in the last few weeks we’ve added the vegan Moving Mountains 100% Plant Burger to our menu permanently. We are also very dog friendly and receive high praise for the care we provide for our four-legged guests (as well as their owners!).”