Join our WhatsApp channel: The Morning Round-Up
Get the biggest pub trade stories straight to your phone. Listen to our one-minute daily news briefing and receive breaking news, exclusives and sector updates throughout the day....just remember to turn notifications on in top right corner!
Operated by Emma and Paul Gibbon under the Inndulge business, the Plough has established itself as a true community hub.
Over nine years of ownership, the team has created an environment where families, local residents, walkers, cyclists and visitors all feel equally welcome. The pub’s success comes not from one standout feature, but from consistently delivering a high-quality experience across every touchpoint.
From the moment guests arrive, the Plough impresses with its picturesque thatched-roof setting and beautifully maintained gardens.
Reasons to visit
Significant investment has transformed the outdoor space into a genuine family destination, featuring a fenced play area, games lawn, French boules, table tennis, an orchard and extensive seating areas. Importantly, these spaces have been carefully zoned to provide entertainment for children while allowing adults to relax and enjoy their visit.
Judges were particularly impressed by the Plough’s commitment to creating reasons for families to visit throughout the year. It hosts an extensive programme of events including Easter hunts, craft activities, family festivals, school holiday celebrations, Halloween events and festive experiences. Many of these are offered free of charge, with donations encouraged for local charitable causes, reflecting the pub’s deep connection with its community.
The food and drink offer further strengthens the family proposition. The outdoor pizza kitchen has become a popular addition during busy periods, while the main menu is designed to cater for all ages. Rather than limiting younger guests to traditional children’s dishes, families are actively encouraged to explore the wider menu, recognising changing dining habits and preferences.
Strong team culture
Central to the Plough’s success is a strong team culture built around training, development and opportunity. Emma and Paul have created an environment where employees are encouraged to grow, with several team members progressing through the ranks into supervisory and management positions.
The result is an engaged, knowledgeable and loyal team that embodies the pub’s family values and delivers a consistently high standard of hospitality, helping to create a welcoming experience for every guest.
The Gloucestershire pub is more than play equipment and children’s menus. It is about creating an environment where every generation feels comfortable, valued and included.
Through outstanding leadership, thoughtful investment, community engagement and a year-round commitment to family hospitality, the Plough is a highly deserving winner of Best Pub for Families 2026.
