Unicorn's Head Named GFC Pub of the Year!

Managed by Andy Hunt and his talented team, this historic Vale of Belvoir pub has rapidly become a local favourite, combining creative food with a welcoming atmosphere.

Andy Hunt’s story with The Unicorn’s Head is one of passion, serendipity and a love for the pub industry. Early in 2023, while driving home from an event, Andy spotted the pub and expressed his admiration, telling his colleague, “I’d love to run that pub one day – it’s a beauty.” The very next day, he received a notification from Everards that The Unicorn’s Head was available for rent. “I saw it as a sign,” Andy recalls, and in September 2023, he, along with head chef Leroy Allen and general manager Simon Barnes, took on the challenge of breathing new life into the pub.

Since taking over, Andy and his team, with Everards’ full support, have worked tirelessly to turn their vision into reality: a welcoming country pub offering top-quality food, sourced from local suppliers like Harker’s Farm Shop, The Welbeck Bakehouse and Mr Pitchfork's Pickles. Their hard work and dedication have clearly paid off, as The Unicorn’s Head is now recognised as the best pub in the region by Great Food Club.

“At Everards, we believe in working closely with passionate entrepreneurs like Andy, helping them bring their vision for a great pub to life,” says Gareth Smith, Everards Business Relationship Manager. “We are so proud of what Andy and his team have achieved at The Unicorn’s Head. They’ve created something truly special in Langar, and it’s a joy to see them recognised with this award.”

A Pub with Heart and Vision
What sets The Unicorn’s Head apart is the attention to detail in every aspect of the pub experience.

From the seasonal, locally sourced menu to the wide range of drinks, including low and no-alcohol options, every element has been thoughtfully curated. The pub offers a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, with great service provided by Simon Barnes and his front-of-house team.

The kitchen, led by chef Leroy Allen, showcases a creative and value-driven menu that our judges praised for its quality. Dishes like lamb’s liver with harissa cous cous, cauliflower cheese and roast onion pie, and Eton Mess reflect a commitment to sourcing the best ingredients and delivering an exceptional dining experience.

Andy’s journey in the hospitality industry spans years, including time at Langar Hall, Stapleford Park, and running The White Horse in Ruddington, which he still manages alongside The Unicorn’s Head. His ambition to create a pub that excels in food, drink, and atmosphere is clear, and Everards is proud to be part of that story.

“We’ve worked closely with Andy throughout his journey at The Unicorn’s Head, and we’re delighted to see the pub flourishing,” adds David Stevenson. “This award reflects Andy, Leroy, and Simon’s hard work, passion, and dedication to creating a pub that the local community loves.”

Everards has a long history of partnering with independent entrepreneurs who share a passion for pubs, and The Unicorn’s Head is a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration and shared values.

Interested in running a pub with Everards?
If you’re passionate about pubs and want to work with Everards to create something special, call us on 0116 201 4260 to find out more.