Some of the top Swindon pubs nominated for national awards

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson took to Facebook to ask the town’s residents to vote for which pubs are most deserving of an award.

This was considering what the pub owners and staff do at each venue to help out their local communities.

The nominations will be put forward to the PubAid Community Awards in Parliament in an attempt to recognise Swindon’s favourite watering holes.

“We have loads of fantastic pubs across North Swindon, many of which play a huge part in our local communities,” said Mr Tomlinson

“I am hoping to nominate some of our local pubs in the PubAid Community Awards in Parliament.

Here are five of the most popular pubs in Swindon which have been put forward by locals for the awards.

The New Inn

The New Inn is cherished by its community.

One of the most nominated of all the pubs in town was The New Inn on Swindon Road in Stratton St Margaret.

“Absolutely fabulous pub and deserves recognition for their tasty food and affordable prices and their hard work in organising events from evening music to daytime cinema,” said Chelle King.

“Wonderful staff and lovely kind local atmosphere inside.”

Lucy Benjamin added: "In a time when costs are rising for families, they've made it possible to entertain kids free or very cheaply.

“The baby group and cinema events are free, and essential for the families of the community to access.”

The Dolphin

The Dolphin in Swindon is another town favourite. (Image: Arkell's Brewery)

Another popular suggestion was Rodbourne’s The Dolphin on Rodbourne Road which is an Arkell’s Brewery pub.

Mandy Moore said: “Without a doubt, it has to be the Dolphin in Rodbourne, great community atmosphere with a landlord and team who really care about the people and community.

“Never-ending fundraising for different charities and they go above and beyond to make every visit memorable.”

The Jovial Monk

The Jovial Monk has been nominated by residents.

A pub which received many votes via the Facebook post was The Jovial Monk on Highdown Way in Blunsdon.

Nick Clifford said: “The food is delicious, bought from local producers and cooked fresh.

“It's a friendly pub, supporting its community, offering a 'warm space' and holds community activities.

“It holds fundraisers for amongst others the defibrillator which is outside the pub.”

Sue MacDonald added: “The Jovial Monk enables so many community and fundraising events to take place in the pub.”

The Strawberry Thief

The Strawberry Thief in Swindon. (Image: Dave Cox)

Tadpole Garden Village was represented in the nominations too with several residents praising The Strawberry Thief on Mackay Crescent.

Coral Van Der Kamp said: “I'd like to nominate The Strawberry Thief for everything that it does to support our community in Tadpole Garden Village.

“They allow TGV In Bloom to host a monthly Community Market in their overflow carpark.

“They help to support events and fundraisers. We have no community space, but this pub provides that. It's only been open a relatively short while, which is testament to how quickly it has become the beating heart of our community.

“The landlord and landlady are responsible for its community spirit. It is their kindness and support which has made this new pub, so successful.”

The Tawny Owl

The Tawny Owl is another popular choice in the town. (Image: The Tawny Owl)

Another popular shout amongst the comments was The Tawny Owl in Taw Hill which several residents voted for.

John Charlesworth said: “The Tawny Owl has been my local for 20 years and has seen various changes.

“Staff are always friendly, dog friendly, and I’ve made so many new friends over the years. Fantastic pub.”

Gillian Vater added: “The Tawny Owl has a great pub-friendly atmosphere. It is great in the summer for kids and the food is fantastic.”