GBPA 2026: Meet the finalists for Best Pub for Families

The Old Thatch

The Old Thatch in Wimborne has built a strong reputation as a family destination by combining excellent hospitality, high operating standards and an impressive outdoor offer.

Part of the Fired Up Collective, the pub attracts families through its expansive Bear Island outdoor area, which features play equipment, games, seasonal trails and live entertainment.

A year-round programme of events, including Easter and summer activities, helps drive repeat visits, while well-trained staff ensure every guest receives a warm and personalised welcome.

Importantly, the Old Thatch balances its family appeal without alienating other customer groups, creating a welcoming environment for all generations.

The Jolly Sailors

Set in the heart of north Norfolk, the Jolly Sailors offers an authentic coastal pub experience with families firmly at its heart.

The sea shanty-themed venue in Brancaster Staithe combines character, community spirit and a genuinely inclusive approach to family hospitality.

Children are actively welcomed through flexible menus, games, colouring activities, outdoor play areas and seasonal initiatives such as free squash and kids-eat-free promotions.

Family visits are further enhanced by a packed calendar of events, including weekly sea shanty nights and the popular ShantyFest.

The Plough

The Plough is a quintessential village pub that seamlessly combines traditional charm with a contemporary family-friendly offer.

Run by Emma and Paul Gibbon, the Prestbury pub has invested significantly in creating safe, welcoming and engaging spaces for all generations.

Its extensive gardens feature a fenced play area, games lawn, boules court and outdoor pizza kitchen, ensuring families can enjoy a full day out together.

Alongside quality food and drink, the pub hosts an extensive programme of free family events throughout the year, from Easter activities and festivals to Christmas experiences.

The Clissold Arms

The Clissold Arms in Muswell Hill has earned its place among the finalists through its commitment to creating a truly inclusive family-friendly community pub.

The historic north London venue combines quality dining with a packed programme of family-focused events throughout the year, including Easter, Halloween and Christmas celebrations.

Families are well catered for with accessible facilities, flexible function spaces and a welcoming environment where all generations feel at home.

Beyond the family offer, the pub plays a central role in local community life through charitable fundraising, educational initiatives and cultural events.

Puss in Boots

Puss in Boots has become one of Stockport’s leading family pubs by combining a genuine community spirit with an outstanding all-generations offer.

Following a significant refurbishment, the pub continues to provide a welcoming environment where families, grandparents and younger visitors can enjoy quality food, a popular daily carvery and extensive outdoor space together.

A dedicated children’s play area, spacious beer garden, accessible facilities and inclusive menus ensure every guest feels catered for.

Operated by Almond Family Pubs, the venue has built a strong reputation through warm hospitality, consistency and attention to family needs.

Almondsbury Creative

Almondsbury Creative has transformed from a former social club into one of the south west’s most impressive community-focused family venues.

At the heart of its success is a commitment to creating opportunities for families to spend quality time together, whether through its free weekly Kids Creative Club, large-scale family festivals, themed seasonal events or extensive youth sports programmes.

Supporting hundreds of local football, cricket and tennis participants, the Bristol venue has become a true community hub.

Its ability to combine entertainment, sport, hospitality and family engagement in one destination sets it apart.