The UK's most beautiful pubs have been revealed in the Camra Pub Design Awards, with winners ranging from carefully restored Victorian inns to striking modern conversions. The awards celebrate the best examples of pub design, restoration and adaptive reuse across the country.
Conservation Award Winner: The Woodman in Birmingham
The Historic England Conservation Award went to The Woodman in Birmingham, recognised for carefully preserving the pub's historical architectural features. The pub dates back to 1897, when it originally operated as a public house for Ansells Brewery. It underwent a £300,000 renovation in 2024, which restored Victorian tile walls and woodwork throughout the building. The Woodman is located near Old Curzon Street Station, part of the upcoming HS2 line expected to open in 2030.
Conversion to Pub Use Winners: The Blue Stoops and St Peter's Tavern
Two pubs were joint winners in the Conversion to Pub Use category, which recognises buildings not originally designed as pubs. The Blue Stoops in London, near Notting Hill Gate Station, was formerly a wine bar before being transformed by Allsopp's Brewery. Since opening, it has gained praise for its food and atmosphere. It shared the award with St Peter's Tavern in Liverpool, a converted Roman Catholic church. The building retains much of its original interior, including the Lady Chapel and altar.
Refurbishment Award Winner: The Leyton Engineer
The Leyton Engineer in London won the Refurbishment Award after a major overhaul. The pub first opened as a pop-up venue during the 2012 Olympics, when it took over Leyton Town Hall. It later reopened in 2024 following a significant redesign.
Community Local Award Winner: The Lord Southampton
The Community Local Award went to The Lord Southampton in London, praised for its role as a hub for local groups and activity.
Judges' Comments on the Awards
Camra Pub Design Awards judging panel chair Andrew Davison said pubs continue to play an important role in communities. He said: “In these troubled times, the pub still has a key role to play in our communities, and those who are working to conserve, repair and renovate them should rightfully be applauded. The Pub Design Awards recognise the extraordinary amount of effort, the imagination and design, plus high-quality craftsmanship which have gone into all of these projects.”
Historic England co-CEOs Claudia Kenyatta and Emma Squire said pubs remain important historic and social spaces. They said: “Pubs continue to be cherished historic spaces for people across the country. Each pub is distinct, telling the story of the community they stand within and continue to serve.”
