The Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list isn’t just another ranking. Launched in 2009, it was conceived to recognise the hard‑working chefs and publicans who transformed humble British pubs into culinary destinations. By 2009, it had become a key barometer for the gastropub movement…

Unlike many awards, this list is compiled by a voting academy of more than 350 industry experts – chefs, operators, food writers and catering managers – each casting four votes for their favourite gastropubs, with at least one vote going to a pub in their own region. Operators cannot vote for their own venues, ensuring impartiality and regional balance.

This peer‑driven approach has elevated the list to a benchmark for quality pub dining. It recognises not only the kitchens elevating pub classics but also the teams that keep these venues true to their pub roots.

Top Ten for 2026

This year’s ranking crowned a new champion and highlighted the resilience and creativity of the UK’s gastropub scene. Here are the top ten venues and their locations:

  • The Devonshire – Soho, London
  • The Unruly Pig – Woodbridge, Suffolk
  • The Red Lion & Sun – Highgate, London
  • The Woolpack Inn – Slad, Gloucestershire
  • The Star Inn – Harome, North Yorkshire
  • The Angel at Hetton – Hetton, Yorkshire
  • Parkers Arms – Clitheroe, Lancashire
  • The Rat Inn – Anick, Northumberland
  • The Rum Fox – Grindleton, Lancashire
  • The Cornish Arms – Tavistock, Devon
  • See the whole list 👉🏼 Top 50 Gastropubs list

Lessons for the Industry

While the list celebrates excellence, it also reveals patterns any pub or restaurant operator can learn from:

  1. Champion local and seasonal ingredients. Many top venues focus on premium, locally sourced ingredients, even maintaining on‑site butchery or bakeries.
  2. Blend tradition with innovation. Successful gastropubs modernise familiar dishes without losing the pub’s soul, reflecting the approach of acclaimed restaurants that balance local traditions with cutting‑edge techniques.
  3. Maintain a genuine pub atmosphere. Operators like The Unruly Pig insist that diners should still feel comfortable dropping in for a pint. Warmth and informality remain integral.
  4. Invest in your team. Special awards such as Front of House Team of the Year recognise that service excellence is as important as cooking.
  5. Engage with peers. The Top 50 community encourages operators to learn from each other, visit peers and share best practices.

Final Thoughts

The Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list offers more than bragging rights. It provides a snapshot of how British pubs are evolving—creating sophisticated menus while staying true to their roots.

By celebrating excellence and highlighting shared values like local sourcing, service and authenticity, the list inspires not just pub operators, but anyone passionate about hospitality.