As the festive season reaches its peak, a definitive list of the United Kingdom's most inviting and atmospheric pubs for Christmas has been unveiled. The rankings, curated by the pub discovery platform Eat Drink Meet, highlight ten establishments across the nation that excel in providing warmth, tradition, and seasonal cheer.
Historic Charm and Festive Menus
Topping the list is The Coal Hole on London's Strand, a Grade II listed pub designed by architect T. E. Collcutt that has been operating since 1903. Famous for its historic clientele, including the Victorian musical duo Gilbert and Sullivan, it offers a classic British festive menu featuring hand-carved turkey and a dark chocolate truffle torte.
Also representing the capital is the Old Bull and Bush in Hampstead, which secures the tenth spot. This stylish, dog-friendly pub boasts idyllic winter views and a menu with seasonal twists like a chicken, leek and cheddar pie.
A Nationwide Tour of Seasonal Comfort
The list celebrates cosy retreats across the British Isles. In the North West, The Sandpiper in Bickerstaffe, Ormskirk, offers magical views over snow-dusted countryside from a converted farmhouse, while Liverpool's The Black Bull is commended as a perfect post-shopping refuge with dog-friendly policies and special menus extending through the New Year.
Scotland's entry is the historic Sheep Heid Inn in Edinburgh, one of the city's oldest pubs, welcoming guests and their dogs with festive dishes like port and cheddar mushrooms. Wales is represented by The Travellers Rest in Thornhill, Caerphilly, a pub with community roots dating back to the 1800s, and The Old Cottage in Lisvane, Cardiff, known for its luxurious country charm.
Unique Festive Experiences
For those seeking an unconventional Christmas setting, Bacchus Bar in Birmingham provides a truly unique experience. Described as 'Harry Potter-style', this underground venue beneath the city's Christmas markets features themed rooms adorned with Greek mosaics and medieval archways, creating an extraordinary festive atmosphere.
Other notable inclusions are The Glover Arms in Perth, which hosts 'breakfast with Santa' events, and The White Lion in Allesley, a former family home turned country pub since 1835, perfect for a post-winter walk feast.
All venues were carefully selected by Eat Drink Meet's expert curators from thousands of UK pubs, with a focus on those delivering an unforgettable festive experience. Whether for a fireside pint, a festive feast, or a moment of seasonal respite, these pubs offer the perfect backdrop for creating lasting Christmas memories.
