09 May 2024
The publicans who run St Albans’ historic Grade II listed pub The Boot have have received a prestigious award to mark their 20th anniversary at the helm.
The Dedication Award from the pub’s owners – Star Pubs – recognises the contribution that father and son team Will and Sean Hughes have made over two decades.
To celebrate the anniversary and thank residents for their support of the pub they are kicking off a year- long campaign to raise money for St Albans Community Pantry.
When the Hughes took it over in 2004, The Boot was rundown and little used. Over the years the duo have worked tirelessly to revitalise it and invested to restore and maintain the beautiful old building, enhancing the city centre.
The Boot – which is Cask Marque approved – is now known for a great pint of Guinness and its wide choice of real ales as well as an extensive selection of fine wines and spirits.
The pub’s authentic Mexican taco menu and Sunday roasts (during winter months) are another popular feature and are prepared from scratch using
locally sourced ingredients whenever possible by head chef Lloyd Pell.
The pub also works hard to support the wider community raising more than £200,000 for good causes during the Hughes’ tenure.
Over the next 12 months they will be putting on a host of activities, including music nights, over the next 12 months in aid of their appeal.
Sean is well known locally for campaigning on behalf of pubs, setting up Save St Albans Pubs in 2017 to highlight the impact of high business rates.
Sean said: “We’ve served over two million pints in the last 20 years. We never thought we’d be here this long but we can’t imagine life without The Boot now. It’s like our home and our staff and customers are like extended family.
“St Albans has an incredible community spirit. We can’t thank people enough for all the backing they’ve given the pub since we started.
“Fundraising for St Albans Community Pantry, which does invaluable work as a food bank and food rescue operation, is our way of showing our gratitude. Pubs have an incredibly important role to play in society and we want to keep The Boot thriving for future generations to enjoy.”
Star Pubs’ area manager Dan Hayward added: “This Dedication Award is well- deserved. Sean and Will do a terrific job at The Boot; it’s a superb pub and a real institution of St Albans.”
