The perfect place to enjoy a drink in the sun and a view of the water

The venue, which won last year’s Best Beer Garden in St Helens, has just done the double and scooped this year’s title as it continues to be the number one destination for a drink and a bite to eat al fresco.

Each week, we will be searching for the best St Helens has to offer in different categories and we’ve given out 17 awards for 2023.

The winners so far:

Best for Hair – Hair by Alice Michelle

Best for Pies – Blackburn’s

Best for Nails – Kreative Kirsty

Best for Roast Dinner – The Brown Edge Pub

Best for Cocktails – The Townhouse

Best for Breakfast – Shakey J’s

Best for Fitness – Ashley-James Ward

Best for Fish and Chips – Paul’s Fishbar

Best for Tattoos – White Rabbit Tattoo Studio

Best for Pizza – Dial-A-Pizza

Best for Pets – The Dog House

Best Independent Shop or Business – Stone Tyres

Best for Dessert – Antonia’s Cakes

Best for Beauty – Chantel Louise

Best for Kids – Jo Jingles Warrington, St Helens and Wigan

Best Gym – Ruskin Fitness Club

Voting for St Helens’ Best for Afternoon Tea is currently taking place and we’re also looking for nominations in our latest search - Best for Burgers.

Next on the list was the search for St Helens’ Best Beer Garden and The Dam Bar and Grill took the latest Best of 2023 crown.

The Dam can host private functions and weddings (Image: supplied)

Terri Anne Beddow owns the venue on Garswood Road, Carr Mill Dam, which was previously called The Boathouse until it changed to The Dam in August last year.

Terri, who is 39 and was born and bred in St Helens, said: “The Dam has become a popular restaurant and bar.

“It is situated by Carr Mill Dam, a reservoir created in the mid-19th century to supply water to the St Helens Canal.

“The Dam offers a picturesque setting with views of the water and surrounding greenery.

“The Dam has become known for its dining options and often features a diverse menu that includes traditional British pub fare, homemade burgers and delicious loaded fries.

“It's a place where people can enjoy meals, drinks and socialising while taking in the scenic views of the Dam and its surroundings and we have a great selection of beers on draft.”

The Dam is home to Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club and hosts boat racing throughout the year (Image: supplied)

She added: “We are a friendly place with the community at heart.

“We are home to Lancashire Powerboat Racing Club and host boat racing throughout the year.

“We are dog friendly and even sell dog wine, beer and tea.

“We have live music on Sundays with Hello Felix joining us this week followed by The Bath Tub Gin Band the following week.”

Terri was a childminder for 17 years when she decided to launch a new business and change career direction.

TAKE A LOOK OUTSIDE IN THE DAM'S BEER GARDEN

She said: “Why not? I have always worked for myself plus who could turn down that view every day?

“I was a childminder before jumping feet first and throwing myself into The Dam.

“We get to meet so many people – it’s a real community vibe.

“The view changes every day – it’s such a relaxing place and the staff work so hard.

“We have become one big family and we have found the perfect balance between friendship and work.”

The Dam's hard-working team on a well-earned night out (Image: supplied)

But what do customers think about the place? Why did they want The Dam to win the latest Best of 2023 title?

One review on their Facebook page said: “A lovely atmosphere.

“Great outdoor area with lots of benches which are perfect on a sunny day.

“Good food and a great selection of drinks.”

Terri said: “We are delighted to have won this award for the second year in a row and we’d like to thank everyone that took the time to vote for us.”

The menu changes on September 11 with Sunday lunches making a reappearance and the venue is also available for private functions and weddings.

They’re also planning a spooky Halloween walk at the end of October.

For more details go to facebook.com/TheDamcarrmill