The White Horse in Birstall has officially been named the best casual dining spot in Leicestershire, as announced at the Leicestershire Promotions Tourism and Hospitality Awards held on December 3, 2023. Alongside this top honor, the establishment also received ‘Highly Commended’ awards in multiple categories, including Best Pub of the Year and Best Sunday Lunch.
This recognition highlights the venue’s dedication to quality dining and hospitality. A pint of Carling at The White Horse is priced at a competitive £5.10, making it an appealing choice for both locals and visitors. According to a spokesperson for the pub, the award came as a surprise to the management team during the awards ceremony, which celebrated excellence in the region’s tourism and hospitality sector.
Celebrated for Unique Offerings
The judges provided positive feedback, with one remarking on the delightful discovery of the venue. The mystery shopper expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I never even knew this place existed but I’m so glad to have found it… this won’t be my last visit.” This sentiment reflects the atmosphere that The White Horse aims to create—inviting and unexpected.
In addition to its main accolade, The White Horse was also recognized for its popular Duck Race, which was deemed one of Leicestershire’s best free events. The pub’s spokesperson humorously noted, “Our beloved Duck Race is officially award-winning fun, recognised as one of Leicestershire’s best free events. Not bad for a bunch of plastic ducks with ambition.”
The venue’s commitment to inclusivity was further acknowledged as it received another ‘Highly Commended’ award for being the best dog-friendly venue in the area. Recent enhancements, including an expanded outdoor seating area, provide ample space for patrons during the warmer months, making it an inviting destination for all.
Acknowledging Team Efforts
Reflecting on the successful night, the spokesperson expressed gratitude towards the dedicated staff and loyal customers. “As you can imagine, we’re still grinning. Winning a category outright and placing among the best in four others is no small feat — and it’s all powered by our brilliant teams, our loyal regulars and our supportive community.”
The White Horse intends to proudly display its awards, saying, “We’ll be polishing the trophies, displaying the certificates, and no doubt mentioning them once or twice in the months to come. Very lightly. With restraint. Probably.” The spokesperson emphasized that while the trophies bear the pub’s name, the true heart of the achievements lies with the team, who excelled in delivering exceptional service to the mystery judges.
This recognition not only celebrates The White Horse’s achievements but also underscores the vibrant hospitality scene in Leicestershire, where establishments continue to innovate and delight patrons.
