As a regular patron I can honestly say that since this public house was renovated during February 2015 under the golden oak scheme, the customer experience has been significantly enhanced. A far cry from the start of this decade when the building was under threat of demolition & only saved thanks to the activity of locals who successfully defeated the firm responsible at a public enquiry in April 2012. Since the Vic 's reopening footfall has been increased compared to 2010 - 14. The dining area has a more open ambience and lighting is much better. The chef knows his clientèle and the menu is varied and food quality good, as is the service. The entire interior area is also cleaner than it used to be, and maintained to a higher standard. And the decor in the current vogue. It did get a CAMRA POTS award Autumn 2015, although the quality of the real ale varies. The number of hand pumps was doubled, the snag is one is used for dispensing Green King IPA. The choice of 3 or 4 different real ales is sometimes too much of a muchness. By which I mean either all about 4%ABV, blonde beers &c. 4 possible real ales offers scope for a wider choice. Since the start of 2016 Thursday's quiz night has been hosted by a couple who specialise in pub quizzes. The style of quiz has proved popular but not as popular as the quizzes set by the previous deputy manager. They are too stylized and repetitive and in my opinion uninteresting and not especially entertaining. Something that could never have been levelled against the previous quiz master/mistress. The staff endeavour to keep the lavatories clean, which is laudable. It is a shame the same cannot be said of some of the patrons who noticeably do not! The smoking shelter was removed during the 2015 renovations and the furniture outside the front has been improved and substantial umbrellas installed complete with heaters. The front area is popular with families during the summer months. Dogs are only allowed in the vaults because the lounge doubles as a dining area, at least I assume that is the reason. There is also a rule that children must be accompanied by an adult, not allowed to run about the inside and are not allowed on the premises after 9pm. Rules followed loosely. The vaults has a pool table and a billiards room. There is a bar but no handpumps. The Vic caters for the disabled. There's an access ramp alongside the front steps and a disabled toilet. There are only a handful of proper pubs in St. Annes-on-sea and although I'm biased, this being my local, it us the best pub in the town, even if the premium lagers are eye wateringly injurious to...
Read moreClaire is very outgoing, very friendly and very hospitable. Claire truly makes a great effort with customers, old and new. Claire is a fellow cat lover, like myself?? Claire says, when I eventually get my long haired Persian Cats again?? That I can bring them in, (To see Auntie Claire??) as long as they are on a cat lead and cat collar?? Howevers, Claire did go on to mention that, these Long Haired Pussies will only be allowed up on the bar at quiet times, which is quite understandable, of course. Claire also went on to mention, that when I eventually get my English Bulldog and Boxer Dog, that they will ALSO be most welcome, for Doggy Treats Etc Etc. This was all very very reassuring, that I can bring my ‘Little Babies’ in for cuddles and attention, etc, etc. Claire certainly has a wonderful way with both animals and us human customers?? We are indeed very BLESSED!!! Auntie Claire, U can cuddle my Persian Cats anytime!!! God...
Read moreMy family were visiting me for Christmas & we decided to eat out for our Christmas dinner, first time ever and we weren't disappointed. The Vic pub did their selves proud. The food was spot on and everyone in our party enjoyed every last bit of it, the plates were empty and we were stuffed. All the staff were exceptional, bar staff & waiting on staff just brilliant. I would highly recommend this traditional pub, with it's great atmosphere, a variety of good beers & wines & fantastic staff. It was our first time visiting this pub but we will definitely be back. Thank you to all the staff for making our Christmas day deliciously stress free. We had a fantastic time. 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'s from this family...
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