A pub located in a little town in the UK has been named as the Great British Pub of 2025. Praised for being “both modern and comfortably familiar” Crown Wharf in Stone, Staffordshire, was the overall winner in the 16 categories.

Crown Wharf is a celebrated canal-side venue that has quickly become a local gem. Operated by Joule’s Brewery, it serves as the flagship taproom showcasing their full range of ales, including seasonal and small-batch brews. Built on the historic site of the original Joule’s Brewery, Crown Wharf blends tradition with modern comfort, offering a welcoming space for everything from quiet pints to lively gatherings.

According to the organisers, the pub was “a passion project by Joule’s Brewery, initially opened in 2021, lovingly crafted from recycled and reclaimed materials reflecting the company’s heritage”.

Ed Bedington, from pub news publication The Morning Advertiser, which runs the awards, said Crown Wharf was “a new build project which draws on all the traditions of the Great British pub to create a venue that is both modern and comfortably familiar”.

The editor added it was “a shining example of community value and hospitality at its best”.

Other winners include Myrtle Tavern in Leeds for having the best pub garden, Perry Hill Pub in London, named best for families, and The Old Duke in Southport, which was top for dogs.

The TripAdvisor forum is brimming with positive reviews from the tourists who have been to the pub.

One of the visitors wrote on the forum: “This is our second visit and we were very pleased again.”

They added: “There are booths with different themes today. We sat in the Elvis booth. The decor is very interesting and a big open bar. The menu choice is vast. Gluten free options are available asking about allergens on ordering and if you aren’t sure they will go and ask the chef, you get separate cutlery and your food is served separately as well. The steak pie had plenty of meat in could have done with some more veg but was very nice. The gammon was cooked perfectly and was very nice. Will visit again.”

 Calling it a “hidden gem”, another user wrote: “Have driven past many times and decided to visit midweek.

 “We were greeted by a lovely lady who was very polite and friendly and showed us around. I had a scampi baguette and my wife the beef baguette. With the two drinks it came to under £20. Excellent value and great food.”

They added: “I have not been anywhere as nice as this.”