A RURAL pub near Kington that boasts some of the very best beer garden views in Wales has been named the best pub in its county.

The Harp Inn, in Old Radnor, was named best Powys pub at the National Pub & Bar Awards 2021.

he Harp was one of 94 regional champions from across the UK and from eight areas of Wales, which included Gwent, South Glamorgan, Mid Glamorgan, West Glamorgan, Dyfed, Gwynedd and Clwyd.

It will be officially crowned at a red carpet celebration in London on September 6, where they will go up against the other Welsh winners to be crowned one of 15 regional winners, while they’ll also be in with a chance of winning the esteemed overall accolade – the National Pub & Bar of the Year.

Hereford Times: The pub thanked all customers which had supported it during the coronavirus pandemic The pub thanked all customers which had supported it during the coronavirus pandemic

“We are absolutely delighted, after a difficult year, to have been awarded the Best Pub in Powys by the National Pub and Bar Awards,” said the Harp on the pub’s Facebook page.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us since reopening.”

Hereford Times: The Harp Inn in Old Radnor, near Kington, has been named as one of the best pubs in Wales. The Harp Inn in Old Radnor, near Kington, has been named as one of the best pubs in Wales.

After 18 months of closures and restraints, and ahead of Covid-19 restrictions being eased on Monday, July 19, the National Pub & Bar Awards winners received notice of their triumph from competition organisers.

A statement from organisers said: “As the summer holidays and staycations begin, friends and families can now discover which locals have been selected as the best in every area of the country.

“The National Pub & Bar Awards aims to put the finest on-trade businesses across the UK in the national spotlight, showcasing just how diverse and creative the hospitality industry really is, as well as how these inspirational operations have survived the pandemic.

Hereford Times: The Harp Inn, Old Radnor

“From the Highlands to Hampshire, the announcement of this year’s 94 county champions shows the level of quality being delivered to pub and bar visitors every day of the week.

“The pubs, which have been selected on overall best practice across a number of operational categories, will be officially crowned at a red carpet celebration at Euston Square on September 6. At the grand final, 15 regional winners will also be announced, as well as the esteemed accolade – the overall National Pub & Bar of the Year.”

“I’ve never been prouder of this industry,” said Tristan O’Hana, editor of Pub & Bar magazine, which hosts the event.

“The entries for this year’s awards demonstrated the undeniable value that communities place on their beloved pubs and bars. To be able to acknowledge the hard work and diligence of venues across 94 UK counties is an absolute privilege. These outstanding venues deserve this recognition now more than ever.”