The 20 best pubs in the UK you need to visit - including one featured in a Brad Pitt Hollywood blockbuster

Starting off strong with a capital city watering hole, this Tudor-style tavern is located in the heart of Holborn and dates back to 1546. The Grade II listed building is so quintessential a spot that it has been favoured by many directors when choosing locations to film at. Most famously, Guy Ritchie's 2000s film Snatch starring Brad Pitt filmed there and used the exterior for Doug the Head's diamond store. 

A charmingly atmospheric thatched pub on the edge of Dartmoor, the Devonshire Inn features all the attributes of a traditional pub - a warm, seasoned landlady, mismatched wooden furniture, and a picture-perfect village setting. Adding to its uniqueness, the pub keeps a Christmas tablecloth out all year round and is cash-only. 

A quintessential 18th-century thatched pub in a Dorset village, this spot draws walkers from the nearby coastal path and strikes a balance between gastro and proper pub comfort. The menu offers refined but unfussy dishes, including local meats and fish, hearty pies, and spicy curries. Most beers served at the pub come from south-coast breweries and local CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) members recently crowned it their Pub of the Year.

A living taste of Old England, the half-timbered façade of this pub still proclaims it "an old English chop house". Boasting a Dickensian flourish, the interior is a treasure trove of dark wood panelling and a bar counter that feels suspended in time. The building’s roots date back to the 15th century.

The Elephant stands out for offering Faversham’s best beer selection. Between the pint selection, maritime interiors and an uncluttered layout, this is a must-see when visiting the Kent coastline. In the summer months, the pub offers a spacious garden for outdoor drinks when the sun is shining. 

Featured in every edition of the Good Beer Guide, this pub is a venue that appears to have been untouched by time. Wooden partitions, a bar billiards table and a cabinet of taxidermy give it a lived-in charm that's worth every penny you'll spend on pints here. 

The Black Bull Inn is located in Coniston and is a spacious and traditionally styled pub that regularly fuels walkers in the area. The interior features carpet, hard floors, cast-iron tables, and hops strung from the beams, and the pub brews its own beer. 

With deep local roots, this Preston-based pub combines hearty ales and grassroots hospitality. The heart of the local community, it's where you'll find nearby residents gathering after work. The sense of community inside is as strong as its beer selection.

A gothic‑Victorian pub tucked away off the beaten path, The Britons Protection is known for real ale, historic interiors, and a serious whisky menu. It’s got secret snugs and a no‑nonsense vibe that’s both atmospheric and authentic. A perfect choice for anyone looking to escape the modern city bustle.

In the heart of Liverpool, this pub offers a classic mix of nightlife and traditional charm. It features local ales, friendly staff, and a strong sense of heritage. A great place to soak up the city’s spirit over a pint.

A Cheshire pub full of character, this spot features timber beams and guarantees a laid-back feel. It blends tradition with comfort, making it a perfect stop for both locals and visitors. A classic bed and breakfast set-up, there's a sprinkle of charm around every corner.

A remote coastal pub tucked away in Northumberland, The Ship Inn offers stunning sea views and a serene atmosphere. It’s a favourite for walkers exploring the coast path, who are drawn in by both the landscapes and the hardy ales. The rugged location gives it a quiet, timeless appeal.

A no-frills, community-focused pub with a strong commitment to affordable, quality beer. It’s got a reputation for passionate locals and a welcoming feel. The pub's character is built around real ale and real people. 

A friendly, down-to-earth pub with solid cask ale options and a warm, local feel. The Grey Horse is the kind of place where regulars know you by your name and newcomers feel like they fit right in. A reliable stop with character and authenticity.

Housed in a historic building, this York watering hole blends traditional decor and a refined drinks list. Its cosy rooms and old-world charm offer a tranquil retreat in the middle of the city. A quiet gem tucked away from the tourist hustle and bustle is what you'll find through its doors. 

A real-ale haven in Bradford, The Corn Dolly is celebrated for its friendly staff and varied beer selection. It’s a community pub that feels both lively and welcoming. Rustic interiors and a genuine love of beer make it a local favourite.

A classic country pub in Ludlow, The Rose and Crown is set in a picturesque market town. It’s draped in charm with traditional wooden beams and a warm fire is always lit during the colder months. The menu and drink list reflect the local, refined countryside taste.

A community-focused pub for real ale lovers, with a good rotating selection of beers. It’s beloved for its friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere and warm welcome. A trustworthy option if you’re exploring Staffordshire’s pub scene.

A freehouse full of character in the Midlands with a welcoming, no frills feel. It’s part of a historic brewing tradition, and the pub remains a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. 

A country inn with a strong sense of local tradition, The Fleece has made a name for itself for its real ale and a peaceful, rural feel. Exposed beams and a comfortable interior give it timeless charm. A haven for those wanting to escape into the English countryside.