GBPA 2025: Find out about the winner of the Star Pub of the Year - the Black Pug

The Black Pug named Star Pub of the Year
GBPA 2025 (The Morning Advertiser)

Facing strong competition from an impressive field of finalists, the Warwick-based Black Pug managed to steal the title of Star Pub of the Year at the Great British Pub Awards.

Run by experienced multi-site operators Matt and Alex Crowther, this is a little gem of a pub with an absolutely whopping outside space that attracts visitors from miles around.

A traditional, warm and cosy warren like interior gives way to a massive pub garden that offers covered seating and an outdoor bar.

Regular events

Part of a group of pubs with a pug-based theme, a grumble apparently being the collective noun for a group of pugs, the pub is fully dog friendly and has a strong community of pug-enthusiasts visiting.

Daily events, with a strong focus on food, make up a strong weekly offer, ranging from Pizza Monday to Taco Tuesday, and special offers see kids getting to eat free on Friday, ensuring the pub remains a popular draw for families.

Other popular events include the Pugtoberfest which saw guests get the chance to compete in “traditional” games, such as the sausage toss and stein relay in the pubs extensive rear garden.

Community hub

With its old world charm, exposed beams, snugs and log burners, the pub also acts as popular hub for the community, hosting groups and associations and putting on a wide range of events including its annual Pug Crawl, a charity walk which has raised thousands of pounds over the years.

The pub building itself dates back to the 17th century, when it was first built as a parish poorhouse, before becoming a pub in 1880. The Crowthers took over the business back in 2019, when it was called the Millwright Arms, before rebranding it as the Black Pug

A strong focus on sustainability forms part of the pubs mix, from a smart-dispense system in the cellars cutting down on energy and waste, through to compostable takeaway coffee cups and a focus on seasonal ingredients.