THE HOLLYBUSH INN
even after selling the business to Thwaites Brewery
a number of years back just couldn’t stay away and
ended up buying the lease back to manage the pub
along with his loyal staff, one of which, Angela
Bestwick, has been working with him behind the
bar at The Hollybush for over 25 years now.
Those familiar with the pub will know its
beautiful canal side location sets it apart from other
country pubs making it a popular spot for walkers,
boaters and day trippers all year round and despite
it being hidden away its reputation for quality food
and drink and a warm welcome goes before it.
In fact the pub recently underwent a large
renovation project sprucing up the existing bar area
and restaurant and knocking down the former
conservatory which was often too hot in the
summer and difficult to heat in the winter. Instead
Steve has had a cosy log burner installed in the new
dining area which has been opened up, given the
place a fresh lick of paint, enhanced the seating area
in the bar with fresh covers and put up some new
umbrellas in the outside seating area. The
refurbishment has however only given the pub a
much needed freshen up and has not changed the
cosy, traditional charm and character it has always
been popular for.
Open seven days a week and serving food right
through the day and in the evenings, don’t miss the
Hollybush’s various specials such as pie night and
curry night, also on offer are OAP discounts. Fans
of live music can catch a different band playing
down at the pub every Thursday night, there really
is something at The Hollybush to suite every age
and taste.
Leek Life January/February 2014 29