The guide, which is recognised as the definitive guidebook to pubs that serve great cask beer across the UK, uses an independent, volunteer-led selection process.
It revealed there were 900 new entries in the 2026 guide, showing pubs are “beating the odds” to provide quality and choice despite tough economic conditions.
However, data in the guide showed 36 pubs that featured in the 2025 book have closed. One of those had been converted while the rest were shut with an uncertain future.
‘Make or break’
In addition, figures from CAMRA showed another drop in brewery numbers across the UK this year, with almost all being smaller and independent operators, which CAMRA said are vital to consumer choice.
Some 149 breweries have closed since last year’s guide was released, while just 71 new breweries have opened.
The guide had a clear message for the Chancellor ahead of the upcoming autumn Budget: “it’s a make-or-break” moment for the future of independent brewers and consumer choice.
CAMRA chairman Ash Corbett-Collins said: “This really is a make-or-break Budget for the Chancellor.
“It’s time for the Government to decide if they’re pro pubs and independent brewers, or if they are going to reign over the demise of the great British Pub.
“Consumers want decisive action to get independent beers onto bars and allow pubs to thrive.”
Excellence and choice
He added: “Each edition of the Good Beer Guide is a collectible snapshot of beer and pub culture that year.
“This year’s guide is a testament to the remarkable resilience of publicans, continuing to achieve excellence and choice for consumers despite a backdrop of sky-high tax bills and a lack of action from Government.
“The Chancellor needs to use the upcoming Budget to slash the tax burden on pubs, including VAT, duty and National Insurance contributions.”
The 2026 Guide was sponsored by Midland Snacks Traditional Pork Scratchings and endorsed by Cask Marque.
