Liverpool's 'perfect winter pub' named country's third 'cosiest' this Christmas
An historic Liverpool pub has been named the third cosiest place in the country for food and drink this winter.
The Black Bull in Gateacre Brow, Gateacre, which has been serving guests since at least the 1750s, has a solid reputation for its tasty food, beer selection and it’s dog-friendly welcome.
It rates as 4.3/5 on Google Reviews, with one customer saying: “Our favourite pub in the city and the best in Gateacre Village. Visit often as never had a bad meal here, food is always very tasty, piping hot and well presented with lots of choice. Always a cosy friendly atmosphere, nice staff and extremely well managed by Dave, can't ever fault anything, perfect pub!”
Now Eat Drink Meet, a website and app that helps users discover nearby pubs, bars, and restaurants, has named it third in a list of the country’s top 10 cosiest pubs across the UK this festive season, saying it goes ther extra mile to deliver an “unforgettable festive experience”.
What they said in full:
“Just a short sleigh ride from Liverpool City Centre, The Black Bull is commended as a perfect winter pub for festive celebrations and heartwarming gatherings. After a bustling day of Christmas shopping in the city, there's nowhere better to rest your weary feet and soak up the seasonal cheer.
“Whether you're hosting a Christmas party, meeting up with friends by the fireside, or treating your nearest and dearest to a sumptuous festive feast, The Black Bull has something to make everyone's Christmas extra special this year. The pub is also dog-friendly too, so even your four-legged friends can join in the yuletide joy.
“With specially crafted festive menus for Christmas Day dinner, Boxing Day, and New Year's Eve including interesting twists on Christmas classics such as a camembert and bacon stack burger and turkey and pancetta pie, the celebrations don't have to end when the big day is over. Guests can still toast to good times, great food, and unforgettable memories.”


And nearby, The Sandpiper in Bickerstaffe, near Ormskirk, rated as second cosiest. Judges said: ““Found in the picturesque winter wonderland town of Bickerstaffe, The Sandpiper is a charming country pub that can offer magical views over the snow-dusted countryside. This pub offers guests a delightful dining experience in a beautifully converted farmhouse setting. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere glowing with festive cheer, this enchanting pub seamlessly combines cherished Christmas traditions with the cosy seasonal comforts you know and love.
“Indulge in a festive menu brimming with delicious delights, including an apple and mince pie crumble or a traditional cheese board, perfectly complemented by a well-stocked bar including cask ales, fine wines, and a selection of British gin. The Sandpiper is the perfect destination for celebrating the magic of the festive season, where every visit feels like you’re returning home for the celebrations.”