The 2026 National Pub & Bar Awards have unveiled their shortlist, featuring eight London pubs among 252 nominees from across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. These establishments are competing for the prestigious title of National Pub & Bar of the Year, with the winners set to be announced at a ceremony in London on June 10, 2026.
Celebrating Britain's Best Boozers
Organized by Pub & Bar magazine, the awards aim to honor the finest pubs and bars in the United Kingdom. The London nominees represent a diverse mix of venues, split into two regional categories: the City of London and Greater London. This selection highlights both historic revamps and modern newcomers in the capital's vibrant drinking scene.
City of London Nominees
In the City of London, three bars have made the cut, all of which are relatively new additions to the area. Liverpool Street Chop House & Tavern and Roxy Ball Room St Mary Axe both opened just last year, while The Star by Liverpool Street launched in 2022. These venues showcase the dynamic evolution of the city's pub culture, blending traditional elements with contemporary flair.
Greater London Finalists
The Greater London category includes five pubs that have earned recognition for their exceptional quality. Notable nominees are The Lord Northbrook in Lee, a revamped Victorian pub; The George in Fitzrovia, a gastropub operated by JKS Restaurants; The Orange in Belgravia; and two upscale Notting Hill gastropubs, The Pelican and Walmer Castle. These establishments reflect the rich variety of London's hospitality offerings, from cozy locals to high-end dining experiences.
Additional Awards and Past Winners
Beyond the main categories, the ceremony will feature an Industry's Choice Award, determined by 400 hospitality judges, as well as consumer-voted awards for Pub Group of the Year and Bar Group of the Year. In the previous year's awards, The Red Lion & Sun in Highgate was named London Pub & Bar of the Year, while Soho's The Devonshire received the Industry's Choice Award. The overall national winner was The Bull in Charlbury, crowned the UK's best pub.
The inclusion of these eight London pubs underscores the capital's ongoing influence in the UK's pub and bar industry. As the awards approach, anticipation builds to see which venues will emerge victorious, potentially setting new standards for excellence in British hospitality.
