On Monday (27 April), the Countryside Alliance Ireland held its annual Northern Irish ‘Rural Oscars’ awards ceremony, where several rural businesses from Northern Ireland were crowned champions.

The Countryside Alliance Awards – now in their 19th year – recognise rural businesses across five categories, including ‘best local food’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best pub’, ‘best rural enterprise’, and ‘best village shop/ post office’. These businesses go the extra mile within their communities, supporting the local economy and championing local goods and services.

Thousands of nominations from around the country were whittled down via a public vote, with the final few being honoured at the Northern Irish finalists’ awards ceremony at Stormont.

The awards were presented by Gary McCartney, director of the Countryside Alliance Ireland, and well-known television personality Pamela Ballantine. The event was attended by a number of MLAs.

The winner of each category will go on to represent Northern Ireland in the national champions reception at the House of Lords in July, competing against other finalists from Wales, Scotland, and England.

Gary McCartney said:

"The Countryside Alliance Awards were created to recognise the people and businesses that are vital to rural life, those whose contribution often goes above and beyond and deserves to be properly celebrated.

“What makes these awards particularly meaningful is that every finalist has been nominated by their own community. The finalists are here because people took the time to say that what they do matters, and that is something to be very proud of.

“So tonight, we recognise their dedication, their commitment, and the role they play in supporting rural communities across Northern Ireland.”

The Northern Irish winners of the 2026 Countryside Alliance Awards are:

BUTCHER

Champion – Cleaver and Steel Butchery, Larne

Established in 2017 in the village of Ballycarry, and now also operating in Larne, this is a modern independent butcher built on a simple principle: delivering high-quality meat with honesty, traceability and pride in the craft. At its core is a strong field-to-fork ethos, working with trusted suppliers so customers know exactly where their food comes from. This is matched by expert butchery skills, with carefully prepared cuts, attention to detail and a respect for traditional methods, alongside a modern understanding of today’s customers. Above all, it is a trusted local presence where quality, consistency and relationships matter. This is everything a great butcher should be.

Highly Commended – Millikens Farm Butchers, Bangor

Based in Bangor, this is a butcher’s shop that has built a loyal following through quality, consistency and personal service. At its heart is a strong field-to-fork ethos, with locally sourced beef that is quality assured and carefully matured for flavour and tenderness. This commitment to provenance reflects the very best of modern butchery, where customers value knowing exactly where their food comes from. Alongside this is a deep respect for traditional skills, with expert butchery delivered with care, knowledge and attention to detail, alongside trusted advice and friendly service. Most importantly, it is a trusted local presence where relationships matter and customers return because they feel valued. A true example of an independent rural butcher.

LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK

Champion – Irvine’s Steakhouse and Bar, Tempo

This is a business that truly embodies this award, with a clear commitment to quality, provenance and showcasing local produce at its very best. At its heart is a deep respect for where food comes from, working closely with local farmers and suppliers to bring the finest Northern Ireland produce from field to fork. But it’s about more than just great food, it’s about championing the people and places behind it, while playing an important role in the rural economy, supporting jobs, attracting visitors and putting their area firmly on the map. Blending tradition with energy and innovation, they have created a standout dining experience rooted in the countryside

Highly Commended – Sally McNally’s, Portadown

What began as a small, traditional country pub has grown into a much-loved, character-filled restaurant and bar just outside Portadown, near Laurelvale. Known for its cosy interiors and charming nooks and crannies, it has become a true destination with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu reflects a real pride in hearty, locally inspired cooking, from classic pub favourites and homemade burgers to standout steaks and seafood, served in generous portions that keep diners coming back. But it’s the experience that truly sets it apart: a homely, relaxed setting, often centred around an open fire, and a team of friendly, familiar faces who make everyone feel part of the place.

PUB

Champion – The Halfway House Country Pub, Broughshane

Set in the scenic Braid Valley at the foot of Slemish Mountain, The Halfway House Country Pub has been welcoming locals and visitors since 1838, a remarkable history built on almost two centuries of hospitality. Under the stewardship of the Hamill family since 1995, this traditional country pub has blended heritage with innovation, evolving while staying true to its roots. It has built a strong reputation for exceptional food, generous portions and high standards, championing local produce from Glenarm Shorthorn beef to fresh seafood and seasonal dishes. But what truly sets it apart is its role in the community, a place where friendships form, milestones are celebrated and guests become regulars.

Highly Commended – The Happy Landing, Eglinton

Located in the historic village of Eglinton, near the City of Derry Airport, The Happy Landing has become far more than a pub and restaurant. It is a true meeting place for locals, visitors and families, where every visit feels familiar and everyone feels welcome. This warm, family-run business has built a strong reputation for excellent food, friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere, with a menu that caters for all tastes, from pub classics and seafood dishes to vegetarian and gluten-free options. But what truly sets it apart is its role in the community, a place for celebrations, Sunday lunches, and everyday connection, acting as a real social anchor for village life.

RURAL ENTERPRISE

Champion – Macha’s Orchard, Portadown

An inspiring enterprise rooted in County Armagh, the Orchard County, where apples have been grown for centuries and remain central to both landscape and identity. At its heart is a powerful idea: that rural heritage, sustainability and innovation can work together. Based in Portadown, this social enterprise focuses on the iconic Armagh Bramley apple, a variety with Protected Geographical Indication status, grown only in this unique region. But this is about more than a product. Profits are reinvested locally through Richmount Rural Community Association, supporting community services and wellbeing initiatives. They also help preserve heritage orchards and biodiversity, sustaining a tradition that has shaped County Armagh for generations.

Highly Commended – Ballydougherty Icecream, Poyntzpass

Far more than an ice cream producer, it has become a destination in its own right, drawing families, visitors and loyal customers back time and again for its handcrafted, locally made products. At its core is traditional, small-batch ice cream making, using quality ingredients and a hands-on approach that reflects genuine rural craftsmanship. Its reputation now extends beyond the farm gate, with products supplied to other local businesses who recognise its quality. Rooted firmly in place, it sits within Northern Ireland’s strong tradition of artisan dairy production, where local milk and cream are transformed into something that brings people together.

VILLAGE SHOP & POST OFFICE

Champion – Sam’s, Laurelvale

At the centre of village life, this shop is far more than a retail space. It is a trusted hub where everyone is welcomed, known and valued, providing everyday essentials, postal services and a friendly face to all who walk through the door. What sets it apart is the owner’s extraordinary commitment to the wider community, from fundraising and sponsoring local teams to delivering groceries to those in need. A defibrillator installed outside the shop is another example of their care for local people. It is a true focal point for village life.

Highly Commended – Caldwell’s Spar, Islandmagee

Located at the crossroads of Islandmagee, this family-run business has served the area for over 40 years, first opening in 1983 and growing steadily ever since. Today it is far more than a convenience store, operating as a community hub with a Post Office, deli counter, hot food, off-licence, ATM and essential services all under one roof. What truly defines Caldwell’s SPAR is what it gives back. The Caldwell family and their team have long supported local schools, churches, sports clubs and charities, raising funds through everything from bake sales to skydives. They also provide vital everyday support, from food bank assistance to helping vulnerable residents with care and dignity.