Britain's top gastropubs unveiled in major list – see if your local made the cut

22 January 2024 , 18:59

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Britain's best gastropubs have been revealed in a prestigious list, including Lancashire's Parkers Arms which won last year's top award

Gone are the days where the only thing on the menu at your local pub were stodgy carveries and a slightly sad-looking prawn cocktail.

The cornerstone of British society has mounted new culinary heights in recent years, with an increasing number being given what many chefs deem the very pinnacle of excellence – a Michelin star. Now a major list has been rolled out naming the very best in British pub grub.

Estrella's Top 100 Gastropubs applauds the top boozers-turned-restaurants, whether it's for their award-winning seafood or desserts which resemble a piece of abstract art. The prestigious list was formally revealed at an event at The Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland, Lancashire, which took the top spot as last year's top gastropub.

The Unruly Pig at Woodbridge, Suffolk, claims the crown this year for being officially Britain's best pub for food. The 16th century boozer has won multiple awards, including a BBC Good Food Award and a nod in the Michelin Guide. Its tasting menu boasts eight small courses including a hand-dived Orkney scallop crudo and 72% chocolate torte, while its T-bone steak béarnaise for two will set you back £48.

Tom Kerridge's The Hand & Flowers also featured in the list, as well as The Cornish Arms in Tavstock, Devon, The Fordwich Arms in Whitstable, Kent, and 14th century The Star Inn in Harome, North York Moors, all of which have been given Michelin stars or recommendations.

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Inside The Unruly Pig - named Britain's best gastropub

The Fordwich Arms' Dan Smith was named Chef of the Year, while Estrella also named The Loch & Tyne in Windsor, Berkshire, as its first Sustainable Pub of the Year winner. Chef Adam Handling was one of three UK chefs last year tasked with creating dishes for King Charles' Coronation, whipping up a strawberry and ginger trifle.

London and the South East has this year dominated the list, with nine pubs in the capital in the top 50. Highgate's The Red Lion & Sun was named sixth best gastropub in the country, while The Baring as Islington and Chelsea's Cadogan Arms also received a mention.

The Parkers Arms owner, Stosie Madi, said about last year's victory “I was not expecting it, it was the most unexpected thing. Not because I don’t think we deserve it but because being in the Top 50 list is already a huge win. Over the years, most of our wonderful achievements have been because the Top 50 have always taken note of us. I feel truly honoured and beyond happy to be number one of the list.”

Susie Beever