The Millhouse named as St Helens’ Best Pub for second year in a row

The couple took over at the pumps two-and-a-half years ago and have turned it into a popular place for families and customers of all ages.

After taking last year’s Best Pub in St Helens award, the Mill Lane venue has been named the town’s Best Pub for the second year in a row.

In April, we launched our Best of 2024 competition and we’ve given out 22 awards.

• Best for Hair - At Gems
• Best for Pies – Burchall’s
• Best for Nails - Nails by Mandy
• Best for Roast Dinner - The Moss Bank
• Best for Cocktails - Cinema Bar
• Best for Breakfast - Shakey J’s
• Best for Fish and Chips - The Nelson Chippery
• Best Beer Garden - Turks Head
• Best for Fitness – Ashley James Ward at Award Health and Fitness
• Best for Tattoos – White Rabbit Tattoo Studio
• Best Independent Shop or Business – Gavin’s Butchers
• Best for Dessert – The Brownie Shack
• Best for Kids – Jo Jingles Warrington, Wigan and St Helens
• Best for Pets – Leanne’s Doggy B&B
• Best for Beauty – Harriet Harmon Studios
• Best for Pizza – Dial-A-Pizza
• Best for Afternoon Tea – Nirvana Coffee Shop
• Best for Burgers – Shakey J’s
• Best Gym – Ruskin Fitness Club
• Best for Curry – Balti Spice
• Best Café or Coffee Shop – Nirvana Coffee Shop

Voting for St Helens’ Best Restaurant is currently taking place.

Vote for St Helens’ Best Restaurant 2024

Twelve of St Helens’ most popular pubs and bars made the shortlist for the latest Best of 2024 award and The Millhouse has taken this year’s coveted crown for the second time.

Nicola and Aidan Gill took over at the pumps at The Millhouse on Mill Lane in March 2022.

Party nights are popular at The Millhouse

Nicola, who is 34 and grew up in St Helens, said: “We are a public house with restaurant that is family and dog friendly.

“We offer live music every weekend and bank holidays, kids parties all year round, family festivals and we show all sport.

“We are in the middle of planning a comedy night for 2025.

“Visitors old and new can expect the same great experience every time they return."

Aidan had multiple eateries in the local area 10 years ago and Nicola has always been an accountant before coming a lecturer.

The Millhouse is dog friendly

Nicola said: “It was Aidan’s idea to take on The Millhouse after the last owners left.

“It was very risky as it had a bad reputation.

“Aidan knew it was a good opportunity and after talking me around, I knew we could turn it into a great community hub.

“We are approachable, open to ideas, cater for every customer including the four-legged ones.

“We provide live entertainment all year round and have an annual festival which sees The Millhouse family come together.”

What do customers think about The Millhouse? Why did they want the venue to win our latest Best of 2024 award?

One regular said: “Fab staff with great customers and there’s always great food and entertainment.”

Nicola and Aidan's children - Ruby, Daisy and Annie

Nicola said: “Our customers have become our friends.

“The Millhouse is a safe haven and customers can walk in and easily talk to anyone.

“It’s a welcoming atmosphere with lovely people.”

How did Aidan and Nicola feel about making the shortlist for St Helens’ Best Pub again and taking the title for the second year in a row?

Nicola said: “There are other great pubs in the area and we were up against great competition

“We are ecstatic to win this again for a second year!

“We were over the moon to be selected again for the shortlist and words can’t describe how it feels to win again.

“We haven’t been in the industry long but we are here to stay so watch this space!”

Nicola added: “Our customers are now our family.

“They’ve made The Millhouse what it is today and we’re hugely grateful for their support.

“The staff and customers have made it what it is – a 2nd year on the bounce, award winning pub.”

The Millhouse sponsors a local football team