This year’s finalists are:
Be At One
Founded in 1998, this now Stonegate-owned cocktail bar group has retained its original ethos at the heart of the business, underpinned by three main values – delivering great drinks, atmosphere and service.
Its 40-strong estate, spread across the UK boasts expertly trained bartenders who’s knowledge and passion shine through in their top-tier service.
Be At One showcases an extensive cocktail menu, served by lively, world-class bartenders in a vibrant atmosphere.
Training is a key part of the brand’s success with a dedication to ensuring its teams are flairing exceptional drinks to provides guests with the best experience possible.
Heartwood Inns
Renowned for being a home from home, Heartwood Inns has had a busy couple of years with a plethora of openings having taken place since its rebrand.
With a strong reputation for a welcoming atmosphere, high-quality food and community-centric ethos, the brand blends traditional pub aesthetics with contemporary, modern comforts, appealing to a broad demographic.
Heartwood is no stranger to awards having taken home numerous gongs at last year’s Publican Awards and being named in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.
Since opening its first pub with rooms in February 2024, the company expanded its accommodation arm further and now boasts a growing portfolio of 28 sites overall.
Roxy Leisure
While Roxy is not a new kid on the block, having started in 2013, recent years have seen the brand ramp up its presence.
With an ethos of bringing the playground to the bar, the brand offers 18 different games to guests from ping pong to bowling, darts and crazy pool – a combination of crazy golf and pool.
Rapid expansion has seen new openings in York, Coventry and London with no signs of stopping.
Through its unique combination of gaming, dining and social interaction, Roxy Leisure continues to redefine the traditional bar experience, appealing to a wide demographic.
Vintage Inns
Home to a collection of more than 170 pubs, Vintage Inns has a long-standing reputation of being somewhere for everyone, in a country pub setting.
Roaring fires and beautiful gardens form a large part of the Mitchells & Butlers-owned brand alongside serving pub classics, complemented by seasonal dishes.
Vintage prides itself on being dog-friendly, while each site maintains its unique character, embodying the essence of a traditional country pub, offering guests a warm and inviting retreat.
Sustainability is also key to Vintage Inns’ success with commitments to reducing its environmental impact for the brand and the wider M&B group.
Recent years have seen the business introduce its Rewards loyalty app, where pubgoers can enjoy exclusive offers.
