The best and safest bars in Leicester have been recognised at the 2023 Best Bar None Awards. Five bars were singled out in the annual awards after being found to have hit the highest standards of safety and “general excellence”.
The winning bars were the Cosy Club in Highcross Street; Firebug in Millstone Lane; Mosh nightclub in St Nicholas Place; East Street Lanes near Leicester Railway Station; and the Rutland and Derby, which is also in Millstone Lane.
The awards event – organised by BID Leicester, which oversees the city’s business improvement district – also saw 47 venues achieve accreditation for their hard work in keeping customers safe and happy. It is supported by local businesses, Leicestershire Police, Leicester City Council Licensing, and Leicester City Watch.
A spokeswoman for BID Leicester said the detailed check-up ensures venues meet the highest standards – trained assessors visit each one, and management have to show they have effective policies in place, that they train their staff well, and they keep good records.
She said: “The process boosts confidence, promotes community collaboration, and assures the public that they can trust they’ll have a great night out.
“Best Bar None accreditation is not just an accolade; it's a dynamic tool promoting continuous improvement, making Leicester's nightlife a benchmark for safety and quality.”
The scheme is run nationally and supported by the Home Office and industry, and now operates in more than 40 areas, with some reporting a 30 per cent drop in alcohol-related crimes.
Winners and finalists in the 2023 Leicester Best Bar None Awards
· Best National Pub/Bar: Cosy Club (Runners-Up: The Friary, Revolution)
· Best Live Entertainment Venue: Firebug (Runners-Up: Curve, 2 Funky Music Café)
· Best Late-Night Venue: Mosh (Runners-Up: Firebug, Grosvenor Casino)
· Best Leisure Venue: East Street Lanes (Runners-Up: Sixes Cricket, Lane7)
· Best Independent Pub/Bar: Rutland and Derby (Runners-Up: The Globe, The Two-Tailed Lion)
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BID Leicester director Simon Jenner said: "We are delighted to recognize and celebrate the achievements of Leicester's bars and venues through the Best Bar None Awards.
“This initiative reinforces our commitment to promoting safe, responsible, and well-operated establishments, contributing to a vibrant and secure social environment in Leicester.
"These awards celebrate the dedication of Leicester's hospitality industry to providing exceptional experiences. Best Bar None ensures our city remains safe and welcoming, promoting responsible practice. Congratulations to all winners!"