The Boot's father and son publicans have been given an award to mark their 20th anniversary at the helm.
Will and Sean Hughes have run the Grade II-listed pub, in Market Square, since 2004 and have been handed the award by the site's owners Star Pubs.
To celebrate the anniversary, Will and Sean have launched a year-long campaign to raise money for the St Albans Community Pantry.
Dating back to 1420, The Boot is packed with character including a sloping ceiling that is six foot high at one end of the bar and 11 feet at the other.
The origins of the establishment are unknown, but Sean explains: "One suggestion is that it could relate to the leather market of medieval St Albans.
"We have found old leather working tools under the floorboards.”
When the Hughes took over The Boot, it was run-down and little used.
Over the years, the duo have worked tirelessly to revitalise it and invested to restore and maintain the historic building.
Will and Sean have introduced a Mexican taco menu and Sunday roasts during the winter months.
Sean continued: "We’ve served over two million pints in the last 20 years. We never thought we’d be here this long but we can’t imagine life without The Boot now.
"It’s like our home and our staff and customers are like extended family. St Albans has an incredible community spirit.
"We can’t thank people enough for all the backing they’ve given the pub since we started.
"Fundraising for St Albans Community Pantry, which does invaluable work as a food bank and food rescue operation, is our way of showing our gratitude.
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"Pubs have an incredibly important role to play in society and we want to keep The Boot thriving for future generations to enjoy.”
Star Pubs’ area manager Dan Hayward added: “This dedication award is well-deserved.
"Sean and Will do a terrific job at The Boot. It’s a superb pub and a real institution of St Albans.”
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