Welcome back! And welcome, more importantly, to 2025. A belated happy new year to one and all. In the intervening weeks since our last encounter, the festive period is well and truly in the rear view mirror and everyone is looking ahead with anticipation as to what this year might bring. Except maybe in the US, which slides even closer to a terrifying dystopia with the re-election of a certain tiny-handed, orange-tinged maniac. But, you didn't come here for politics, which is probably just as well. Instead, I bring you something refreshing and slightly different from my normal approach. For much of the month of January, I've been significantly reducing my alcohol consumption, in an attempt both to save money and prolong the longevity of my internal organs. Don't worry, I'm not about to bore you with a long spiel about the delights of alcohol free beer. I haven't gone completely dry. There have been occasions this month where normal service has been resuming. I just needed a bit of a slowdown and a reset after the excesses of December. Which left me in something of a quandary when the pub company I work for came up with #31PubsinJanuary, a social media initiative to encourage people to use as many pubs as possible during a notoriously fallow month for hospitality. What to do? Well, in lieu of undoing all my hard work in attempting to have a drier month, I opted not to look forward but, instead, to look back. I decided that I would compile a list, in a countdown-style format, of my 31 favourite pubs from across the years of the existence of this blog.
As you can imagine, I've visited hundreds of pubs in the almost 12 (!) years since this blog began and so whittling the list down to a mere 31 was no mean feat. And yet, here we are. The fruits of my labours of re-reading blogs and re-writing shortlists have led to this point. Before we get to the nitty, and indeed the gritty, of revealing the runners and riders, some points of order. The pubs I've chosen to include have all featured in the blog at various points. I've been to all of them at least once, although some have benefited from multiple visits. I've deliberately omitted any pubs in Nottingham city centre and any within the estate of the company I work for, both to reduce recency bias and also to bypass any accusations of favouritism. This is very much a subjective list, chosen by me and me alone. The criteria for selection has simply boiled down to the overall experience of each place. They may not sell the best or widest range of beer in some cases. What they all share is an emotional connection. In choosing the lucky entrants, I have selected venues that have stuck me with long after I've left. The ones that I always think about when reminiscing about pub-based excursions. These pubs live in my head, rent-free, and will always call me back. In short, these pubs and bars are the best because of how they made me feel.
So, without further ado, strap yourselves in. The final list of my top 31 follows, along with honourable mentions for a small handful that oh so nearly made the cut.
*Cracks knuckles*. *Stretches neck*. *Cranks up Led Zeppelin*
31. Hunter's Lodge, Priddy, Somerset
An old school pub in Somerset's highest village
Situated in Somerset's highest village, the Hunter's Lodge is a pub that Matt waxed lyrical about long before I ever got to visit. This is a pub the way pubs used to be: beer served on gravity, a warm welcome, cash only and a landlord who's been in charge for over 50 years. Deservedly recognised for its beer for many years, it's easy to imagine what a welcoming sight this stone edifice would be on a cold, winter evening. Just don't dare have your phone on show lest you want to see it nailed to a piece of timber.
30. The Oakfield, Chester Zoo
A fantastic conversion project in a unique location
I've been to many pubs that occupy a lot of unexpected locations but a pub inside the grounds of a zoo is a truly unique experience. This conversion of the former home of the Mottershead family can only be accessed if you're visiting the zoo but it's 100% worth it. Fabulous decor in keeping with the listed nature of the building, wonderful food and even real ale on draught. This is probably the only place in the UK where you can enjoy a pint a few yards away from snow leopards and red pandas.
29. The Eagle, Cambridge
The city's most famous pub, where a major scientific breakthrough was announced
Known as the pub where Watson and Crick announced their discovery of the structure of DNA, The Eagle is renowned for a lot more. From it's rear bar with the ceiling grafftied by Allied airmen during WWII, to its permanently propped open window that reflects a tragic event and accompanying ghost story, this is a pub worth visiting. Yes, it's operated by Greene King but you could do worse than to stop for a beer and absorb the near 400 years of history within its walls.
28. George & Pilgrims Hotel, Glastonbury, Somerset
An ancient hostelry in a legend haunted town
Alongside the memory of an irate school teacher coming to collect his charges from a pub during a school trip, the abiding memory of our visit to Glastonbury is the time spent at this impressive building. Grade I listed and believed to be the oldest public house in southwest England it's an imposing and atmospheric place to while away some time with a beer. Whether you buy into the Arthurian legends or not, this is at least one reason to embrace the mystery and mysticism of this most famous of towns.
27. Red Deer, Sheffield
A taste of nostalgia at Sheffield's oldest pub
Whether it's the memories of time spent here during my postgraduate studies, I have never forgotten the Red Deer. The smell of wood smoke, the excellent beer choice and the feeling of stepping back in time combine to wonderful effect. If you pick the right time of day, you can have the place virtually to yourself. The perfect antidote to studying or just to everyday life itself. Bliss.
26. Red Lion, Avebury, Wiltshire
A unique pub at the heart of a mystical landscape
A pub at the heart of a zoo is one thing but a pub inside a stone circle is quite another. The sheer atmosphere of being at the Red Lion is like nothing else. Once you get past the thoroughly impressive circle of stones that have driven many an academic mad as to their purpose, you find a fantastic thatched building with it's own historic mysteries. There's something incredibly gothic about being able to sit around a table that is placed over an old well, where an unfortunate woman's mortal remains were disposed of. Her resident ghost is none too pleased about the situation either. The isolated countryside surrounding the village adds an element of folk horror to this place.
Honourable mention
The Wellington, Birmingham
A real ale destination in the second city
One of Birmingham's premier real ale pubs very nearly made it over the line into the official 31 but didn't quite make it. Nevertheless, the sheer abundance of beer choice here, together with the warm welcome and the aesthetic make it worth a visit for anyone in this neck of the woods. Beers are ordered by pump number instead of by name, such is the volume available at any one time. Worth seeking out.
25. Tobie Norris, Stamford
From bell foundry to excellent pub
The standout pub from last year's trip to Stamford began life as a bell foundry but now thrives as a bloody great venue. Original features have been retained where possible and the interior is a treasure trove of bric-a-brac and knickknacks. The beer is excellent quality and it's easy to forget that you're in the heart of a Lincolnshire market town.
24. Arden Arms, Stockport
Destination pub with a rare feature
Stockport turned out to be an absolute oasis of cracking pubs, none more so than the Arden Arms. Amongst it's comfortable and cosy interior, it boasts a snug that is only accessible through the bar itself, one of only 4 still extant, at least at the time of the original trip. Lovely inside and out and with well-kept beer from Robinson's, it deserves its place on this list at Stockport's standout local.
23. The Star Inn, Bath
One of Bath's oldest pubs, with an historic interior
This mid-18th century gem is a fantastic pub in a crowded field in this part of the country. Wood panelling throughout its four internal rooms reflects its age, as does 'death row' a single bench that is the only seating in the smallest room. As well as being the outlet for Abbey Ales, the Star serves Bass from a jug and provides complimentary snuff for those who are so inclined. A heritage pub that reflects a bygone era and all the better for it.
22. The Crown, Beeston
Beeston's real ale emporium lives up to its reputation
It's hard to stand out in an area with so many good pubs but The Crown has built its reputation on doing just that, and wonderfully so. On the rare occasions I'm in Beeston, it's a pub I always enjoy visiting. Excellent beer in both quality and selection, alongside period features, including a former priest hole, provides no shortage of talking points on which to kill not inconsiderable amounts of time.
21. The Volunteer, Bristol
Tucked away, 300 year old gem, worth searching for
Our various trips to Bristol have included The Volly (as its colloquially known) on many occasions. A haven for the kind of relaxed, comfortable drinking experience that is often hard to find, it also features a brilliant enclosed garden for the warmer months and a bar that also has interesting and unusual beers. If I ever say to anyone that 'I'm off to volunteer', this is what I mean.
Honourable Mention
The Chequered Flag, Castle Donington, Leicestershire
A cosy micropub, off the beaten track
This cosy micropub in the backstreets of Castle Donington will always have a place in my heart as the place where I finally thought I might be on to something as far as this blog is concerned. It was the first place where the regulars seemed genuinely interested in what I was doing and why. On top of that, not only did I feel welcome but the beer was great and the ambience lured me in off the street on a chilly winter day. It's since shortened its name to The Flag. I think about this place a lot whenever I pass through the village and I really must go back one day soon.
20. The Anchor, Digbeth
Birmingham's premier real ale pub in a not so flattering location
Located adjacent to Birmingham coach station in the mean streets of Digbeth, The Anchor is an absolute belter of an old-school heritage pub. Ever since my visit, I've had recurring thoughts about the sheer unexpected joy I got from visiting this place. The grunge soundtrack lured me in, the bar offerings drew me closer and the interior held me in its sway until it was time for my train. I pass it every time we go to Birmingham and make a mental note to return. Soon, my good friend. Soon.
19. The Strugglers, Lincoln
Lincoln's real ale gem
The jewel in Lincoln's real ale crown is a must-visit. Warm, comforting and with walls and ceiling absolutely plastered in pump clips, a testament to the sheer number of beers this place gets through. It's an oasis of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the centre and a good spot to fortify yourself before tackling Lincoln's infamous, and in no way ironically named, Steep Hill.
18. Totally Tapped, Beeston
Cracking micropub that has battled on
The only micropub to feature in the official countdown has rightfully earned its place. The biggest highlight from a Beeston trip that was fantastic all round has tenacity and determination to its credit, alongside a cracking selection of beers. Surviving its original parent brewery going under and still continuing to operate, without losing its core values, is some feat, and testament to the affection with which this place is held. It is the best micropub I've ever been to, insofar as we could comfortably have sacked off the rest of the day and stayed there until close. It's a tough job, this beer blogging lark!
17. Duck & Drake, Leeds
Victorian boozer that's a hub of the Leeds music scene
Pubs that put a big emphasis on music will always leave a lasting impression on me. The Duck & Drake is one such place. Not only known for its commitment to live music, on almost every night of the week, but also for a frankly stonking beer selection, this is a pub worth journeying out to Leeds for. Good beer and good music go hand in hand and this is pub is cast-iron proof of that connection.
16. The Boot, St. Albans, Hertfordshire
Outstanding pub in the heartland of CAMRA
Managing to be the top pub of a trip in a place as loaded with cracking boozers as St. Albans is an achievement in and of itself. The Boot rose to the top of the pile of what was one of my favourite trips in the last 12 months. From the flower-bedecked exterior, to the open plan interior, the quirky and delicious beer choice and the atmosphere of controlled chaos, it ticked every box of what I could possibly have wanted. I thought about this pub at every other pub I went to for the rest of the day, and the entirety of the train ride home.
Honourable Mention
The Angel Micropub, Belper, Derbyshire
A converted chapel preaching good beer to the choir
Another micropub that sticks in the memory is this little beauty in Belper, another place with a surprisingly strong pub scene. The pure irony of a converted stone chapel now serving delicious beer, in many tasty forms, made it my favourite of the day on that particular occasion. Unfortunately, it didn't quite make the full list but deserves a mention as a cracking little venue in its own right.
15. Golden Fleece, York
York's most haunted pub, with an atmosphere all its own
14. Roscoe Head, Liverpool
A Liverpool institution, now thankfully saved from developers
I expected a lot from the Roscoe Head and I would not be disappointed. It's reputation certainly speaks for itself, not least because it's one of the 'Famous Five' pubs to appear in every edition of the Good Beer Guide. Run by the same family for over 30 years, they were finally able to take ownership in 2020, saving the pub from the onslaught of developers, after a long legal battle. The saving of the pub is a massive relief. This is an intimate and friendly space and it deserves to keep doing what it does best. The time spent here was humbling and very much worth the walk. A fantastic pub. Long may it thrive.
13. Bag o' Nails, Bristol
A pub filled with beer and cats? What more could you want?
Another pub that consistently features in a number of Bristol blogs, the Bag o' Nails has something that no other pub on this list has. Namely, pet cats roaming free inside. Add that to the constantly rotating and well-kept beer selection, and the list of 'rules' written on the wall inside and you're halfway to appreciating the quirkiness of one of the city's most unique drinking establishments. No Stairway to Heaven.
12. Whitelock's Ale House, Leeds
A legendary Leeds watering hole
Quite comfortably the best traditional pub in Leeds city centre, Whitelock's is something of a local legend. The fact that it was standing room only shortly after opening time speaks not just to the popularity of the place, but the fact that they do simple things very well indeed. A time capsule of a pub with original features in abundance, this is not to be missed if you're ever in the area.
11. Tamworth Tap, Tamworth, Staffordshire
Multi award winner deserves its accolades
You don't win CAMRA's National Pub of the Year award by luck and you certainly don't win it twice in a row if you don't know what you're doing. The Tamworth Tap deservedly did just that and even a casual visit will tell you why. Knowledgeable staff, an awesome beer range, locally sourced snacks and spirits, and views to the neighbouring castle are recipes for surefire success. Long may it continue.
Honourable Mention
Bridewell, Liverpool
A place you'd certainly want to be locked up
I really wanted to find space for this place in the full list but I couldn't quite make it work. However, it would have been remiss of me not to mention it at all. Where else can you sit in a former cell with a pint and put the world to rights? This converted jail would be just the place. Many of the original features, including the cell doors, have been retained to create an intimate and unique drinking experience. It also won local Pub of the Year within the past couple of years so maybe this is a sign that I don't know what I'm talking about.
10. Dublin Castle, Camden, London
A Camden institution where music legends got their break
Now synonymous with Amy Winehouse, the shadow of her rise to fame, spectacular career, and untimely death loom large over the venue where she performed many times. Not only that, but Madness were discovered here and were, for a while, the house band. The impact of these acts, and numerous other musical luminaries have left a legacy that hangs in the air at this rather simply laid-out venue. No bells or whistles. Just the weight of music history writ large in the ether. A must-visit for the feeling that, just for a moment, you are walking in the footsteps of icons. Drink it in.
9. Brew York Beer Hall, York
A beer lover's paradise from one of the city's most successful breweries
Now a York institution, Brew York have created a seminal space for drinking, eating and having a bloody good time. Good luck working your way through the beer board, whether that's the frankly astonishing number of craft beers in the upstairs beer hall or the downstairs tap room, where cask ale is dispensed next to the vessels in which it is brewed. There's something for everyone here, in every style and strength you might want, all accompanied by incredible bao buns. You could quite feasibly stay here for the rest of your life.
8. Broomfield Tavern, Coventry
Unassuming back-street local with a warm welcome
This rather non-descript pub got me in a way I didn't expect. I certainly didn't expect to visit twice on the same day. Small but cosy, with a log fire and candles (both much welcomed on a cold November day) and a resident St. Bernard keeping watch, few pubs produce a feeling of comfort quite like this one. The added bonus of excellent local beer makes the Broomfield a place that will live long in the memory and made the difficult journey back from Coventry worth it.
7. Lamb & Flag, Covent Garden, London
Hard to find traditional pub on the edge of the theatre district
There's something different and special about London pubs, which explains why so many of them rank so highly on this list. The atmosphere and the history of the capital's boozers feels more extravagant, more sinister, and more refined. This pub, tucked down a side alley in the centre of one of London's busiest areas, is a case in point. Almost begging to be found, it hides its darker history behind a welcoming facade and has links to John Dryden and Charles Dickens, as well as previously hosting bare knuckle boxing matches. Responsible for the best London Pride I've ever had in my entire life and a perfect example of a quintessential London pub.
6. The Harp, Covent Garden, London
Legendary real ale pub and London's first winner of NPOTY
As close to real ale heaven as you're likely to get in this part of the capital, The Harp has taken on almost legendary status amongst CAMRA members and other beer enthusiasts alike. The beer choice here is second to none for this area and this is confirmed by the pump clips splayed across the ceiling and bar front like trophies. The interior reflects its age, the beer and service reflect its reputation. Amazing.
Honourable Mention
The Bridge, Bristol
A landmark music pub where quality outweighs lack of space
Another pub that so very nearly made the cut, The Bridge is a music lover's paradise. If the giant mural of Jimi Hendrix wasn't enough of a clue, the theme is continued inside, where music memorabilia and gig posters cover every conceivable wall space. Whilst there's not an awful lot of space inside the pub, this is more than compensated for by the welcome, the atmosphere and, of course, the beer.
5. The Flask, Highgate, London
A stone's throw from the famous cemetery, a pub steeped in legend
Easily one of the best pubs I've ever had the pleasure of stepping into, The Flask is brilliant. Perfectly located for a thirst quenching pint after exploring nearby Highgate Cemetery, the pub's former clientele has allegedly included Dick Turpin, William Hogarth and Karl Marx. What a party that would have been, I think you'll agree. The secluded entrance, leading into the wood panelled interior, is a world away from the mansions and townhouses on the nearby road and conveys a feeling of sitting down in history. The time we spent here, even though it wasn't long, is amongst my favourite memories. What a pub.
4. Cavern Club, Liverpool
World famous music venue, where the Beatles rose to fame
Any discussion of the best venues I've ever been to cannot exclude the Cavern Club. I realise that it's not technically a pub but, my blog, my rules. Another venue inextricably tied into its place in music history, the Cavern is most akin to stepping into a time warp. Hours can pass in here, absorbing music history, not just from the Fab Four but the other acts that have graced its famous stage. Even with the memorabilia staring you in the face, you haven't experienced the Cavern Club until you've spent hours here, enjoying the live music, singing along and truly immersing yourself in the origins of a music scene without which, music, nay, the world, would be a much darker place, and that's saying something. I'm not saying we were in here for a while but when we entered it was daylight and it was dark when we came out. Although it was February.
3. The Marquis, Covent Garden, London
Covent Garden's music pub, sent viral by a punk band
The fact that three pubs in Covent Garden have all made this list should be some indication of how great some of the drinking venues in that area are. The Marquis is the best of the lot. Virtually next door to The Harp, it might be tiny inside but it makes up for it no end. Known as Covent Garden's music pub, it is renowned for championing live music, both from local artists and further afield, although it's most recent claim to fame was when Green Day played an impromptu set here. Also known for being frequented by Charles Dickens, The Marquis has a style all of its own, with heavy Only Fools & Horses theming, vinyl records played behind the bar, friendly service and awesome beer. It was heaving in the middle of the day on a Wednesday. Nuff said.
2. The Gryphon, Bristol
A haven for lovers of dark beer and darker music
Runner up in this esteemed rundown is the best pub in Bristol. Anyone that's been reading this blog for a while probably won't be surprised that The Gryphon features here, nor that it ranks so highly. If you like heavy music, great beer, friendly staff and, most importantly, you're not a knob, then this is undoubtedly a place for you. We've been many times and it inexplicably gets better with every visit, one of which is long overdue. I have nothing but praise for this fantastic place. Independent alternative pubs are sadly fewer and further between than they used to be so it's more important than ever that we look after the ones that are still powering through. Long live The Gryphon!
This begs the question, if you've got this far, what could possibly be at number one?
And the winner is.........
1. Valhalla, York
Viking themed rock bar that has found its niche
It had to be really, didn't it? When I started putting this list together, I already knew what my top pub would be. Valhalla is an absolute worldie! Combining a great range of beers with phenomenal food, against a backdrop of Viking theming and appreciation of Norse mythology has created a place like no other. And that's before we even talk about the soundtrack. The music here is unashamedly rock and metal, all day, every day and unapologetically awesome. We fell in love with this place as soon as we first visited and we will continue to visit whenever we're back in York. Valhalla also hosts the hardest quiz in the world on a Monday night, if it was even possible to add more positives to the list. To be able to create a profitable, independent venue with such a specific niche and make it a go-to destination is nothing short of unbelievable. Odin approves. As do I. Make Valhalla a must for any York-based itinerary. I promise you that, if even half of this summary appeals to you, you won't regret it.
So, there we go. My full list of my 31 favourite pubs, in honour of #31PubsinJanuary. I realise there are some controversial choices, particularly with regards to the final order but, as this list is subjective, I'm fairly happy with it. If nothing else, I like to hope it will inspire you to go out and visit more pubs, both in the final few days of January and throughout the wider year. I will certainly be doing the same once my self-imposed dry period comes to an end. With pubs closing at an alarming rate, they need our help more than ever. As the song goes, you don't what you've got until it's gone. Let's make sure we're not talking about these pubs, or any others, in the same terms going forward.
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