Most Improved Pub Award

Most Improved Pub of the Year 2021–22

When landlord Ste Hornby opened the SHED in November 2017 it was just one of a handful of micropubs in the town centre and having worked in the hospitality sector for many years this was the realisation of a long-held ambition of Ste’s. Developments since that time have seen microbars embraced by the local council and numerous other bars have followed. However, the Shed has always been a little bit different, located just yards from the site of the former Commercial Hotel on Fazakerley Street it was something totally new to the town; a quirky themed bar with its wood-lined interior that was quickly embraced by local drinkers.

Live music and cask ales have played an important role from the outset, but it was in the autumn of 2021 that the business really stepped up, expanding into the premises next door, doubling the floor space and being renamed, the SHED AND GARDEN. This is a regular live music venue, now with plenty of seating and the original rustic feel has been retained despite the extension. The addition of a pavement licence provides seating for 40–50 people outside on the pedestrianised street, which makes for lovely outdoor socialising in warmer weather. Building on the original theme, the Garden really is something special, the paving, gravel paths, picnic tables and a pergola giving a real outdoor feel and enhancing the ambience of the pub.

Ste provides an extensive range of drinks to suit all tastes but has remained true to his original ethos, with three ever-changing

cask ales permanently available on handpump. These are generally sourced from local breweries such as Blackedge, Wigan Brewhouse, Twisted Wheel and Crankshaft (to name a few) and the quality and consistency of the beers is excellent. There are also a variety of events including Quiz/Open Mic nights on alternate Thursdays, Bottomless Afternoon Teas on a Saturday and Wine and Cheese every Sunday. Put this together with the regular live music on offer and this venue really is second to none. If you’ve not already been, it’s well worth a visit.

A great many venues in the area have carried out renovations, expansion and garden makeovers during and post-lockdown to great effect, so competition for this award has been really strong. It therefore gives us great pleasure to announced that the Shed & Garden has been awarded the Most Improved Pub for 2021–22 in the Central Lancashire CAMRA branch area and our congratulations go to Ste and all the staff in their achievement.