A much-loved Nottinghamshire real ale venue with deep roots in the local community has been put on the market as its owners prepare to retire. The Gate Inn, an independent free house located on Main Street in Awsworth, has been operated by Steve Fox and Kim Boldock for the past 16 years. The couple transformed the ailing establishment, which traces its origins to the late 1800s and holds CAMRA heritage status acknowledging interiors of historical significance that have remained largely unchanged for more than 50 years. The pub has become celebrated for its unique multi-room layout, excellent beer selection and welcoming atmosphere, drawing a loyal following among local residents, community groups and real ale enthusiasts. The business operates primarily as a wet-led venue and functions as a true free house, serving a variety of real ales, ciders and classic pub meals. During their stewardship, considerable care and investment have been devoted to maintaining the pub’s historic charm while preserving its role as a focal point for village social life. Following their acquisition, the landlords embarked on an ambitious goal to feature 1,000 different beers within 1,066 days. The Boldocks came across the pub in 2010, despite it having been closed for three weeks and experiencing declining patronage. They quickly saw its potential, especially noting the generous cellar that could house an extensive range of ales. At the time, Kim considered taking on the venue to be a significant gamble but felt cautiously optimistic that it would prove worthwhile, noting they had viewed hundreds of establishments before finding this one and immediately sensed it was the right choice. The pub rapidly developed a reputation among real ale devotees and was dubbed the sweet shop by CAMRA members because of its varied offerings. To mark the occasion of serving the 1,000th different beer in under three years, they commissioned a special real ale from Giltbrook-based brewery Blue Monkey. Titled A Pub of a Thousand Beers, the pump clip depicted Anne Boleyn’s body with a monkey’s head. Kim explained that they selected Anne Boleyn because she famously reigned for 1,066 days, which matches the duration they took to feature their 1,000 different beers. The proprietors gradually restored the pub and added a skittle alley, rooftop terrace and rear courtyard. In February 2016, the main bar received a makeover and an original fireplace was revealed, now fitted with a wood-burning stove. The venue was awarded Nottingham CAMRA’s Pub of Excellence accolade in 2011 and LocAle Pub of the Year in 2013. As they get ready to step away, the couple reflected that after 16 years serving as guardians of The Gate, they were looking forward to retirement. They bought the pub in 2010 to guarantee it remained community-focused, which they feel they have achieved. Over the years they have collected £80,000 for charitable causes and formed many friendships, but now was the right moment for a new custodian to continue The Gate’s story. The asking price is set at £400,000. Jonty Green, business agent at Christie & Co managing the sale, described The Gate as a delightful free house full of character. He noted that from the moment one entered, the hard work, dedication and extensive charitable efforts of Steve and Kim over the years were evident. He added this would make an excellent pub for any ale enthusiast and welcomed interested parties to make contact for further details.