Independent Harrogate bar celebrates winning local CAMRA award

Ten Devonshire Place was named Pub of the Year in Harrogate and Ripon for 2016 less than two years after it was first launched.

Previously the run-down and struggling Devonshire Arms, this craft beer and fine wine bar on Skipton Road has proven highly popular since it opened in November 2014.

Allan Gauld of The Campaign for Real Ale said: "We were delighted that the tired old Devonshire Arms had been given a new lease of life in a new guise but didn’t think it would come so far in a short time. It's a marvellous achievement to be named pub of the year."

Since new owners Steve and Andi Aikman took over this former coaching Inn dating from the mid 19th century,the building has been painstakingly restored to utilise all the original features with almost instant success.

The two brothers have a track record of breathing new life into existing establishments.

In the 1990s they took the Old Bourbon on King’s Road in Harrogate and turned it into Jimmys, which became the town’s most popular nightclub of the entire decade.

Since they launched Ten Devonshire Place, this 'craft beer' bar has encouraged a diverse and lively scene in its relaxed, 'no airs or graces' surroundings.

Combining a traditional ale house with an eclectic place designed for everyone from middle aged hipster, to young hopeful, to veteran real ale men, it hosts live acoustic evenings, vinyl only Dj sets, Jamaican food events, quiz challenges and simple board games.

It's even hosted concerts by genuine stars of the Britpop era, including Tom Hingley of Inspiral Carpets and Mark Morriss of The Bluetones.

Allan Gauld of CAMRA said: "The award for Ten Devonshire Place reflects the hard work and dedication of the whole team there.

"This unique and quirky pub adds to the thriving bar scene in Harrogate and helps to cement the town’s growing reputation as a beer destination."