The Royal Oak in Radcliffe on Trent is a powerhouse of community engagement, charitable giving, and civic leadership. From hosting free village-wide events for children to launching pubwatch schemes and beautification initiatives, this wet-led pub - run by landlord Chris and his dedicated team - has become a central force for good in Nottinghamshire.
The breadth and consistency of community work carried out by The Royal Oak is remarkable. Key achievements include:
- Community Recognition & Safety:
- Winner of Stonegate Community Pub of the Year 2024 and finalist in the Great British Pub Awards.
- Named Business of the Year 2024/25 by Rushcliffe Borough Council.
- Chris was presented with a Civic Hero Award by Radcliffe Parish Council.
- First pub in Nottinghamshire to receive the 5-star Licensing SAVI Award.
- Founded and chairs the Radcliffe & Villages Pubwatch scheme in partnership with local authorities and police.
- Fundraising & Charitable Giving:
- £1,200 raised for One Pavement Away via a team sleep-out, funding 30 essential backpacks for the homeless.
- £1,600 raised for the Alzheimer’s Society to support a local charity walk.
- Contributed £2,500 to the Radcliffe Charity Carnival.
- Donated £1,200 to the Green & Black Charity supporting the Nottinghamshire Breast Cancer Unit.
- £1,500 raised for a local men’s mental health initiative, including funding signage around the village.
- Support for Children & Families:
- Hosted free, self-funded Easter and Halloween trails attracting over 140 children at each event.
- Community Campaigns:
- Launched the local Great British Litter Pick, which has become a regular activity as part of their sustainability efforts.
- Partnered with Radcliffe Community Gardens to plant pollinator-friendly greenery on the pub terrace and launched Radcliffe in Bloom.
- Business Collaboration & Economic Impact:
- Created the On Trent Trail, a collaborative beer festival involving three local pubs.
- Organises monthly village markets to help local businesses gain visibility – now includes a Young Entrepreneurs Scheme in partnership with local schools.
- Hosts creative workshops with local florists, and even a Daddy/Daughter haircare morning with a local salon.
The Royal Oak is seen as the heart of the village. From parents with young children to older residents and new business owners, everyone benefits from its leadership and generosity. The unwavering support from locals – even with new venues nearby- speaks volumes about the pub’s deep connection with its community.
The Royal Oak has changed the face of community life in Radcliffe. It’s not just a pub – it’s a platform for progress, a centre for charity, and a safe place for everyone. From supporting mental health to boosting the local economy, the pub has delivered measurable, wide-reaching impact.
The Royal Oak is a textbook example of how a pub can drive genuine, positive change. With innovation, care, and consistency, Chris and his team have built something truly special a place where people feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
