The Telegraph has unveiled its Guide to the 650 Best Pubs in the UK, featuring 15 establishments from Merseyside. The list, expanded from last year's 500 Best Pubs in England, now includes pubs from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, selected by a panel of experts for their unique character, history, quality drinks, and community spirit.
Selection Criteria and Experts
The pubs were chosen using the same criteria as the 2025 guide: a welcoming atmosphere, high-quality drinks, and a strong sense of community. Will Hawkes returns as the England expert, joined by Robin McKelvie and Mike MacEacheran for Scotland, David Atkinson and Kerry Walker for Wales, and Nicola Brady for Northern Ireland.
Hawkes said: "Despite desperate operating conditions, Britain still has hundreds of magnificent pubs, offering warmth, atmosphere, character and fantastic drinks. You'll find the best of the best in our guide." He added that the expanded guide covers pubs from Shetland to Land's End, with experts scouring the nation earlier this year.
The 15 Merseyside Pubs
The Merseyside pubs include Liverpool favorites such as The Roscoe Head, The Vines, The Philharmonic Dining Rooms, The Lion Tavern, Peter Kavanagh’s, The Ship & Mitre, Ye Cracke, and The Grapes. Other venues are in Saint Helens (The Turks Head, The Cricketers Arms), Wirral (The Rose & Crown, The Plasterers Arms, The Magazine Hotel), Waterloo (The Volunteer Canteen), and Lydiate (The Scotch Piper).
Impact and Recognition
The guide aims to highlight the best of British pub culture despite challenging operating conditions. With 15 Merseyside pubs recognized, the region stands out for its vibrant pub scene, offering a mix of historic and community-focused venues.
