News & Updates

Marston’s pubs recognised among UK’s best by Great British Pub Awards

We are proud to announce that eight of our great local pubs have been shortlisted as finalists at the Great British Pub Awards 2025, a celebration of the very best in UK hospitality and a reflection of the passion, ambition and community spirit that define Marston’s pubs across the country.

The Great British Pub Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the pub industry,” are designed to shine a light on the most outstanding pubs in the UK — those that go above and beyond to serve their communities, innovate their offer, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

Among the standout pubs up for Great British Pub Awards are The Pontardawe Inn, Pontardawe, a finalist for the Best Pub for Entertainment category, and The Old Duke, Southport, which is up for the Best Pub for Dogs award.

Meanwhile six Marston’s pubs have been nominated for the prestigious Marston’s Pub of the Year category, including:

• The Old Arcade – Cardiff
• The High Orchard – Gloucester
• The Red Lion – Newburgh Village, Parbold
• The Grapes – Belper
• The Honeystone – Hunstanton, Norfolk
• The Manor House of Whittington – Kinver, Stourbridge

Neil Campbell, Chief Operations Officer at Marston’s, said:

“To see eight of our pubs recognised at the Great British Pub Awards is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the energy, creativity and commitment of our teams. The nominations show that when we focus on delivering amazing experiences and building strong community connections, great things happen.

“Congratulations to all our finalists, who represent the very best of what it means to be a great local pub. You’ve set the bar high, and we’re right behind you.”

Ed Bedington, editor of The Morning Advertiser, which organises the awards, added:

“I’m delighted to reveal our finalists for the competition this year. Judging was particularly challenging across all categories, with strong entries across the board, so those that have made the final should feel extremely proud of that achievement.

“Next stage will see judges hitting the road and making unannounced visits on the pubs on the list, so I look forward to visiting some of those operations and picking out our winners down the line.

“This is a great competition and allows us to shine a positive light on the sector and hopefully give those businesses a much needed shot in the arm as well. Once again, congratulations to our finalists for 2025.”

The winners of the Great British Pub Awards 2025 will be announced at a live ceremony in Leeds on 24 September. For more information and the full list of finalists, visit: https://greatbritishpubawards.co.uk/live/en/page/2025-finalists