The great English pub has always been a favourite for families, couples and friends alike, but what is it about certain pubs that make you want to come back time and time again?

Great British Life: Relax in the cosy snug. Picture: ArchantRelax in the cosy snug. Picture: Archant (Image: Archant)

Tom Evans and Craig Mather, co-directors and owners of The Rose and Crown in Ulnes Walton are very proud of their ‘destination pub’. They’ve put it back on the map and breathed new life into the 250-year-old building. Here, they share what to look out for in a country pub.

Top-notch food

One of the most important aspects of a pub and restaurant is its menu.

“The Rose and Crown offers traditional English cuisine, but with a twist – our food is made with local ingredients where possible and is always of the highest quality,” says Tom.

Weekly specials are also a hit in many pubs, and bring something different to the table.

Great British Life: Tom Evans and Craig Mather, co-directors and owners of The Rose and Crown in Ulnes Walton. Picture: ArchantTom Evans and Craig Mather, co-directors and owners of The Rose and Crown in Ulnes Walton. Picture: Archant (Image: Archant)

“Being a family-friendly pub, our menu has lots of variety and something for everyone.”

Excellent customer service

“The level of service you receive could be the difference between a good experience and a bad one,” Craig says.

Even if the food is great, if you haven’t had good customer service, you’re unlikely to want to return.

“We really look after our staff at The Rose and Crown – we know that if they feel valued, they’ll make the customer feel the same.”

A friendly, welcoming atmosphere

It’s not just the staff that can set the tone for a pub.

“Our pub is steeped in history and is beautifully decorated. Although quaint, we’re also very lucky to have extensive land, where we can hold summer events – we even keep pigmy goats!” Craig explains.

“The Rose and Crown changes with the seasons, and we always look forward to Christmastime, when the pub turns into a winter wonderland, complete with a cosy, festive menu.”

The pub in Ulnes Walton is also open to your furry friends and has a large outdoor area and beer garden.

Something to wet your whistle

What pub would be complete without a range of beverages to choose from.

“Although we’re primarily recognised for our food, we do offer an extensive drinks menu, from traditional cask ales and premium lagers, to a wide range of spirits, wines and soft drinks,” Tom says.

Love for the local area

Both Tom and Craig live in the area and are incredibly passionate locals.

“We took the pub on mostly because we wanted to build something special in Ulnes Walton – it’s a small, pretty village that is unknown to most,” says Tom.

“We love living in this area and wanted to give something back. We employ local people and, with their help, we’ve brought this wonderful pub back to life.”

Head to roseandcrownulneswalton.co.uk for more information. To book a table call 01257 228500.

Visit the pub at 220 Southport road, Leyland, PR268LP.