Couch in Stirchley first entered the list in 2022 at number 37 and continued to climb the ranks to this year’s number one.
Expertly handcrafted cocktails are inspired by films with each drink based on iconic moves alongside a curated wine list and a rotating special cocktail on draught.
The backbone of any stellar operation is a strong team and this is certainly the case at Couch after the bar took the title of Bar Team of the Year at the 2024 Top 50 Cocktail Bars.
Also on the rankings this year, second place was taken by Liverpool’s Bar Glue, which was also the 2026 Highest Climber – storming up the list from 38.
Award winners
Former number one Satan’s Whiskers in Bethnal Green came in third this year while the Brain Jar in Hull was the 2026 Highest New Entry at four pipping Waltz in London’s trendy Shoreditch to the position as the latter was number five.
Other winners on the night included tbc in Chester, which was named One to Watch for the future as despite being open for just a short time, it has already made a remarkable impact with its drinks offer perfectly reflecting the chatty, vibrant energy of the street this venue calls home.
Newquay’s Tom Thumb was this year’s Sustainable Bar of the Year impressing judges with its dedication to ensure sustainability is taken into consideration with every action taken.
This year’s Bar Team of the Year was awarded to Lab 22 in Cardiff due to its long and strong reputation for its creativity, professionalism and genuine camaraderie alongside a stand-out mentorship scheme.
The 2026 Rising Star was also named as Jelena Bulatovskaja from Sexy Fish who blew judges away at the final competition earlier this year with her ability to perfectly pair mixology with storytelling.
Clear dedication
The event was hosted by cocktail consultant and Think Drinks creative director Pritesh Mody and took place at London’s Underglobe.
Ed Bedington, editor of The Morning Advertiser, which organises the Top 50 list, said: “We’re delighted to see Couch rise up the ranks to the top this year. It’s great to see this neighbourhood establishment that has a clear dedication and passion for their craft take the number one spot.
“I’d like to congratulate all the bars that have made the list this year, and our winners as well. It’s a tough industry out there, but these guys are flying the flag for excellence and exceptional experience for customers looking for a discerning night out.”
The top 10 cocktail bars in the UK:
- Couch, Stirchley
- Bar Glue, Liverpool
- Satan’s Whiskers, Bethnal Green, London
- The Brain Jar, Hull
- Waltz, Shoreditch, London
- Schofield’s Bar, Manchester
- Amaro Bar, Kensington, London
- Bar Termini, Soho, London
- Panda & Sons, Edinburgh
- Tayēr + Elementary, Shoreditch, London
See the full list here.
