Two Merseyside venues are in the running for accolades at the Great British Pub Awards. The Dog & Collar on Hope Street in Liverpool city centre is competing for the title of "best town pub" in Britain, while Bootle's Lock & Quay hopes to win "best community pub."
Dog & Collar: A Newcomer's Rise
Opened in February 2025, The Dog & Collar has quickly built a reputation for its cozy taproom snugs, open fires, and welcoming atmosphere. The venue is led by 32-year-old Daniel Gillbanks from Aigburth, who runs Group Road Trip Hospitality with business partner David Scowcroft. The duo also operates PINS on Duke Street and Almost Famous on Parr Street.
A spokesperson for The Dog & Collar said: "To be shortlisted just 16 months after opening is a huge moment for everyone. It feels like real recognition for the work the team has put in since day one. Being considered in the Best Town Pub category means a lot to us. It reflects everything we have tried to build here. We wanted to create a pub for everyone, but more than that, we wanted to show what else a pub could be in Liverpool city centre."
The judging process includes an unannounced visit and interviews with team members. The spokesperson added: "This shortlisting is a reflection of how hard the team have worked to get us to this point, and we couldn't be prouder of them."
Lock & Quay: A Community Hub
The second Merseyside nomination goes to Bootle's Lock & Quay, tucked away beside the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Originally named The Little Merton, the pub was acquired by the charity SAFE Regeneration in 2014. What started as a one-off fundraising event has become Liverpool's only microbrew pub, welcoming patrons for over a decade.
The Lock & Quay has received several awards for its community spirit, including the PubAid's Community Pub Hero Awards. Both venues will learn their fate on Wednesday, September 23, during a ceremony at the First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds.
