Owners of Two Trees Micro Pub inspired by small bars in Europe

Owned by Michael Ash and his partner Kathryn Perry, Two Trees Micro Pub is located at 18, Vicarage Road, Watford, and is the next small business the Watford Observer is profiling in support of Watford Borough Council’s Shop Local campaign, encouraging people to eat, drink and shop in the town during this festive season.

Open since March 1, 2002, Two Trees specialises in selling real ale, real cider and craft beer, as well as providing a small selection of spirits and soft drinks for customers. It also sells beer and cider for takeaway.

Michael and Kat started the business after he was made redundant from his previous job at Network Rail.

He explained: “I felt I needed a change and wanted to chase the dream of doing something we were both passionate about.

“We love to go on city breaks and have loved the concept of small bars in mainland Europe, and wanted to do something like that in Watford, but with the rich heritage of cask beer in the UK.”

Michael and Kat with Watford mayor Peter Taylor (Image: Watford Borough Council)

As the only micropub in the town, Two Trees sells beers that are not available elsewhere. “We aren’t like a normal pub,” Michael said, “we promote conversation amongst strangers and always happy for a chat.

“We are unique as neighbours who would never have known each other now come to us to talk. We have done some charity work as a pub in the past and would like to get round to more. We also have a community notice board where people can share their businesses, charity sponsorships and local events.”

While Michael and Kat would like to expand their business in the future, their focus is on “continuing to trade as we are” given the struggles the hospitality sector is continuing to experience.

“Costs have risen, not only for us but for our customers too,” Michael said. “We always try to balance value for money for our customers and keeping the business running. This is something that we have to take day by day, and have to be aware that everything could change next month.”

A busy day for Michael and Kat (Image: Two Trees Micro Pub)

The local community and regulars are key to Two Trees’ success and Michael and Kat always aim to do their best to ensure customers keep coming back.

“We always go the extra mile to make sure customers have the right drink, we are happy to give tasters and recommendations. At nearly two years in business, we know what our regulars love!”

Asked what they had learnt in the past year that will make the business stronger in the future, Michael responded: “That our local community is very supportive of small independent businesses. The pub is as much theirs, as it is ours; their involvement allows the pub to thrive as a community hub and business.”

The Watford Observer supports businesses throughout the year with our Your Favourite competitions giving readers the chance to nominate and then vote for their favourite barbers, hairdressers, pubs and restaurants.

We also support businesses through our ongoing Love Local Business campaign launched during the Covid pandemic.

If your business has won an award or has an extraordinary story to tell email michael.adkins@newsquest.co.uk