YOU could be forgiven for expecting the owner of the ‘Crafty Baa’ to be thinking big after the Windermere establishment recently anded the ‘Best Pub in England’ award.

But quite the opposite has happened, because Vince Gregg is actually thinking small, and is planning to open a sister operation he believes will be the Lake District’s tiniest pub.

“Things are always changing at the Crafty Baa,” said Mr Gregg.

“We are always looking to change and add fresh things for our customers to enjoy, and we think they will enjoy this.”

The new venture, to be called the ‘The Pie and Pint’ will be housed in a small single room adjacent to the Crafty Baa but will be a completely separate operation from the existing pub with separate stock.

Beer wise, the emphasis will very much be on local cask ales, but customers will also be able to sample a world class whisky range and a selection of prize winning, locally produced pies.

Mr Gregg said the new venture will focus on giving customers a place to sit back and relax in a “tech-free, music-free and care-free environment.”

“You will be treated to a stripped-back version of the traditional pub in a cosy atmosphere that will encourage conversation, good times and a whole new appreciation for the wonderful local produce sourced from around the region,” he said.

Mr Gregg is hoping to emulate the success of The Crafty Baa, which stands on Victoria Street and which recently won that prestigious ‘best pub’ title at the annual AA Hospitality Awards to add to its growing list of accolades.

Not only was the popular family run hostelry named as a finalist in the ‘Best Establishment for Food and Drink’ category at last weekend’s Cumbrian Family Business Awards, but it was also a Winner of Best Windermere Business at the Cumbria Retail Business Awards and even listed as a regional finalist in the Countryside Alliance Pub of the Year awards.

Mr Gregg said a busy programme of work to get the establishment ready for the grand opening had been frantic but had gone smoothly, and the first ales will be pulled at ‘The Pie and Pint’ when it opens its doors at 5pm tomorrow, Friday March 15, when all are welcome.

And don’t be late, because Mr Gregg has promised that the first barrel of ale is on the house and as an added bonus there’s a free pork pie for every customer - while stocks last of course.