THE White Horse Inn, a family-run country pub in Mark, has won the Good Food Award Blue Ribbon for Gastropubs 2024/2025.

This prestigious national award highlights the pub’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, home-cooked food.

The White Horse Inn has become a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike and is known for its traditional British cuisine with a modern twist.

The Good Food Award is a coveted national accolade that celebrates excellence in food quality, consistency, and the customer experience.

With only a small percentage of UK establishments receiving this honour, the White Horse Inn joins a distinguished group of eateries that exemplify the very best of British culinary traditions.

This achievement follows another recent win for the pub, having been crowned Somerset Wedding Venue of the Year 2024.

The White Horse Inn was also a finalist in the Best Sunday Roast and Best Chef of the Year categories back in 2016, further emphasising its reputation as a culinary hotspot.

The White Horse Inn, originally established in 1993 by Mike and Chrissy McKenzie, has always been a family-run enterprise over its tenure.

The couple initially ran the pub until 2001, returning in 2014 with their, now adult, children Harriet, Hannah, and Callum, to continue their family’s legacy.

Today the family have developed a close-knit team that extends a warm welcome to every guest, while their dedication to fine food and exceptional hospitality has become their hallmark.

Callum, who serves as the pub’s managing director, also collaborates with his father in the kitchen to curate and develop the pub’s menu.

Together, they have introduced a balance of traditional and contemporary dishes, always ensuring that quality and local ingredients are at the heart of everything they serve.

The culinary expertise of the White Horse Inn extends beyond savoury dishes to an impressive array of desserts, many crafted by Mike’s daughter Harri Bishop, the pub’s dessert chef.

Harri’s homemade desserts have earned their own loyal following, with diners eager to try their famous Sticky Toffee Rum Pudding.

Other indulgent favourites include the Triple Chocolate Brownie, Homemade Cheesecake, indulgent sundaes, and the yearly anticipated Mince Pie Sundae, a Christmas special that has become a favourite during the festive season.

In addition to the award-winning food, the White Horse Inn has become a sought-after venue for weddings, parties, and events.

With its rustic charm, stunning gardens, and flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, The White Horse Inn offers something for everyone.

The pub offers bespoke wedding packages tailored to each couple’s unique vision.

The team at the White Horse Inn takes pride in their ability to deliver personalised service and create unforgettable celebrations for every couple who decided to host their big day there.

The team’s dedication to providing a seamless and joyful experience, combined with their focus on exquisite food, has made the White Horse Inn a desired destination not just for weddings, but for all kinds of special occasions.

Despite its many accolades, the White Horse Inn remains at its core a welcoming village pub.

It continues to serve as a beloved gathering place for the local community, offering real ales, fine wines, and a menu that celebrates the best of British cuisine, from its hearty pies and fresh fish dishes to lighter bites like salads and sandwiches.

As the White Horse Inn looks toward the future, the McKenzie family remains committed to continuing their tradition of excellence in both food and service.

“This award is not just a win for our family,” said Callum, “it’s a testament to the hard work and passion of everyone who’s been part of the White Horse Inn over the years and our hardworking staff.

“We are proud of what we’ve achieved, and we’re excited for what lies ahead.”

The White Horse Inn invites everyone to experience its award-winning food, welcoming hospitality, and the charm of a true family-run pub.

Located in the scenic village of Mark, just off the historic Abbots Causeway, the White Horse Inn is the perfect destination for those seeking great food and drink in a cosy and friendly setting.