The Milestone pub in New Invention, Willenhall, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Great British Pub Awards, competing for the title of Best Community Pub in Britain. The pub, situated on the corner of Essington Road and Dorchester Road, is the only West Midlands contender in this category.
Shortlisted Venues
The six venues vying for the award include the historic Swan pub in the royal borough of Windsor, the Coach and Horses in Gloucester, The Lock & Quay Community Pub and Gardens in Bootle, Merseyside, Chaplins & The Cellar Bar in Boscombe, Bournemouth, and the Black Swan Public House and Theatre in York.
Recognition for Community Spirit
All pubs were invited to enter, with finalists celebrated for their work in supporting the local community, offering a range of facilities for residents, and demonstrating how a pub can serve as a community hub. The winner will be announced at a ceremony at the First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds on Wednesday, September 23.
Rave Reviews
The Marstons pub has garnered excellent reviews from visitors who praise its gastropub menu, live music, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond evening entertainment, the pub is known for its coffee mornings, community gatherings, and providing a safe space for locals to connect.
Visitor Janine Jeffery wrote: "Great local pub, with beautiful food, great service, really reasonably priced, lovely staff, my new local I think!" Another customer, Ellie, commented: "The atmosphere is fantastic, live music is absolutely amazing. The food is delicious they have a lot of variety of food. Great drink selection. The staff are very friendly, very welcoming. The best pub we have been in!"
Other Regional Contenders
Other West Midlands pubs competing in different categories include the Tamworth Tap, which is up for Best Beer Pub, the Kings Arms in Kings Heath for Best Pub To Watch Sport, the Cock N Bull Co in Stourbridge for Best Town Pub, and the Ashmore Inn in Wolverhampton for Best Admiral Taverns pub.
