Is there anything better than a cheeky pint in a cosy British pub? Snuggled in the corner, a roaring fire nearby and slowly sipping on your favourite tipple?
To top that, we’ve narrowed down the best pubs in the UK, perfect for your next winter evening outing. From dog-friendly pubs and cosy London taverns to traditional English pubs serving exquisite pints, check out our favourites below!
1. The Churchill Arms – London
Dubbed London’s prettiest pub (and we’d dare say, a top pick in the entire UK), The Churchill Arms is a beloved British pub. With a homey tavern atmosphere that feels just like your local, The Churchill Arms has undisputed character. The unexpected and gorgeous Thai menu can’t be missed either.
Becoming a cherished drinking spot in recent years, The Churchill Arms also takes Christmas decorations to the next level. Transforming into a festive wonderland with 22,000 lights and 80 trees, the Churchill Arms is a truly unmissable winter spectacle.
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2. Waxy O’Connor’s – Glasgow
Set over three spectacular carpentry-crafted floors, Waxy O’Connor’s is definitely the ‘super-pub’ of this list. Located in Glasgow’s Merchant City, Waxy O’Connor’s goes beyond the typical Irish pub, boasting church-inspired decor for a unique experience.
Serving up hearty grub, ranging from Scottish haggis and Irish stew, the Guinness is always flowing at Waxy O’Connor’s. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or catching a local match with friends – the community energy cannot be disputed!
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3. The Irish Bar – Llandudno
Voted the ‘Best Community Pub’ for 2023 in Robin’s Aberconwy Pub of The Year contest, The Irish Bar is a firm favourite for locals and tourists in Llandudno. This charming Llandudno pub offers a perfect night out with great pints and spirited live music, ensuring an unforgettable evening.
With a warm pub ambience, The Irish Bar delivers vibrant live music from Wednesday to Sunday and a magnificent menu of Irish delicacies. Customers have even named Irish Bar as having the “best pint of Guinness in town”! And best of all, you can even bring your furry friend down for the evening.
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4. The Marble Arch Inn – Manchester
Manchester’s beloved Marble Arch, a historic pub, serves classic grub and even brews its own beer. While one of the smaller pubs on our list, The March Arch makes up for its petite space with a rich, local atmosphere.
Decorated with beautiful mosaic flooring and stunning tiled walls, prepared to be transported to this cosy pub’s humble beginnings as you walk through the door. Enjoy a selection of award-winning ales and lagers and soak up the local community at The Marble Arch this winter.
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5. Bull and Last – London
Weekly quiz nights, cosy wooden decor and perfectly perched on the doorstep of Hampstead Heath. Bull and Last is a gorgeous London pub waiting to be discovered.
Located in North London, Bull and Last has been praised for its innovative British pub menu and exceptional array of ales. Exuding the restful atmosphere of a lazy country pub, a pint at Bull and Last is a well-earned escape from the hustle and bustle of North London.
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Planning a London pub crawl? Check out our guide to the best pub crawl in Camden here.
6. Baltic Fleet – Liverpool
As one of Liverpool’s most iconic pubs, Baltic Fleet has been beautifully reimagined by a father and daughter duo, becoming one of the city’s most treasured watering holes. Originally a dockers pub, Baltic Fleet’s Grade II listed home features a toasty open fire and a cosy outdoor courtyard.
Famous for an evolving collection of locally brewed craft ales, at its roots, Baltic Fleet is a family-run scouse pub. So, if you’re looking to soak up the local Liverpudlian atmosphere and enjoy a pint you won’t find anywhere else, Baltic Fleet is the place to be.
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7. Dirty Duck – Stratford-upon-Avon
The Dirty Duck in Stratford-upon-Avon is equally known for its no-nonsense, homey ambience as it is for its favouring across the acting community. Nestled in the historic hometown of Shakespeare himself, the Dirty Duck has been famously dubbed ‘the actor’s bar’.
With acting greats including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen and Dame Helen Mirren being previous patrons, the Dirty Duck’s great beers and top-tier Sunday roasts have made this cosy pub a Stratford-upon-Avon favourite.
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8. The Boater – Bath
Set in a classic Georgian building with magnificent high ceilings and all the charm of a traditional British pub, The Boater in Bath’s city centre is a lavish maritime-themed pub. Boasting a lively dining room, a speakeasy cellar bar and excellent pints, The Boater is a Bath crown jewel.
Just a stone’s throw from Bath’s famous Pulteney Bridge, enjoy a pub night filled with British classics at The Boater after a long day of exploring this historic spa town’s landmarks.
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9. The Beehive Inn – Edinburgh
With spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle, The Beehive Inn is one of the capital’s oldest public houses. Serving Scottish ales and exquisite malt whiskies alongside splendid local delicacies, this cosy pub is packed with a rich history.
The Beehive Inn is famous for welcoming hundreds of tourists and locals every day. So whether you’re craving traditional Haggis or eager to try some of Scotland’s favourite alcoholic beverages, The Beehive Inn’s warm pub atmosphere is the perfect way to spend an evening in Edinburgh.
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10. The Pointer – Brill
A cosy British pub in the heart of the beautiful Buckinghamshire countryside – what’s not to like? The Pointer offers a gorgeous, locally sourced food menu serving premium cuts of meat from the butchers right next door. Don’t forget to try The Pointer’s very own Brill Gin – you might even be tempted to take a bottle home.
And best of all, your four-legged friends are welcome to join you for an evening pint. Treat your pup with a comfy dog bed, plenty of treats or a scoop of Judes Dog Ice Cream!
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