Godstone publicans Mark and Alison Cullinan have received two awards in recognition of their 20-year anniversary at 400-year-old The Hare & Hounds. In addition to the official tribute from pub owner Star Pubs & Bars, the couple were also given a tongue-in-cheek blue plaque from regulars, which says:
‘To the best landlords in the world. A proper nice little boozer. Mark & Ali Cullinan. Running the Hare & Hounds, Godstone since 4th May 2004 (when they’re not on holiday).’
Before they took over The Hare & Hounds, Mark and Alison had run a pub in Caterham.
“Godstone is a lovely village in a beautiful location with a real sense of community,” said Mark. “So when the previous tenants moved on we leapt at the chance to take on the lease for The Hare & Hounds. We haven’t looked back.
It’s been a great 20 years, a real joy to run the pub. The locals are lovely and have become good friends. As for retiring, we’ve no intention of doing so. Covid-19 gave us an insight into what life would be like if we didn’t run The Hare & Hounds, and it wasn’t very appealing!”
The couple has increased trade during their time at the pub, surviving knockbacks like the smoking ban and Covid-19. During the pandemic, the couple continued to cook takeaway meals for the local community, delivering them to people’s houses and looking out for those who were socially isolated. They have worked hard to rebuild their business since then and have established a reputation for affordable pub classics done to a high standard. Alison is the pub chef and takes pride in sourcing local ingredients and preparing dishes from scratch.
Star Pubs’ business development manager Mark Marijnen praised the pair:
“Mark and Alison are, without doubt, much loved in Godstone. I am delighted to be giving them this award in recognition of their contribution to the community. The fact that regulars have got together to create their own award to say thank you says it all.
I wish Mark and Alison many happy years ahead behind the bar and their regulars many happy days and nights in their local.”
Mark adds:
“It’s Alison and my turn now to say thank you to our wonderful regulars for all their support over the years and for the touching plaque, albeit a cheeky one!”
