For the 53rd edition of the Good Beer Guide, we’ve tapped into the grassroots comedy scene, with a foreword by comedian Ed Byrne, famous on social media for his #preshowpints.  

While Ed is honest that he’s not always found a perfect pint on tour, there’s some solid recommendations in this year’s guide for people wanting that perfect pairing of a pint and a laugh: 

Plough, Langford

King and Queen, Wendover

RedWillow, Macclesfield

Albion, Warrington

Coach and Four, Wilmslow

Old Ale House, Truro

Fell Bar, Penrith

Steam Machine, Newton Aycliffe

Crafty Casks, Raylaigh

Star and Dove, Bristol

Strand, Cheltenham

Hop Kettle, Gloucester

Belgium and Blues, Southampton

Barrels, Hereford

Three Blackbirds, Boxmoor

Victoria, Hitchin

Black Horse, Leicester

Sussex Arms, Tunbridge Wells

Beerhouse, Market Harborough

Birdcage, Lincoln

Artillery Arms, London

Pembury Tavern, Hackney

Leyton Engineer, East Leyton

Bohemia, North Finchley

Royal Albert, New Cross

Railway, Streatham

Dog House, Beddington

George IV, Chiswick

Viaduct, Hanwell

Turk’s Head, St Margaret’s

Angel, Dunkinfield

Flying Horse Hotel, Rochdale

King’s Arms, Watton

Mason’s Arms, Oxford

White Hart, Oxford

Crown Inn, Telford

Bath Brew House, Bath

Quantock Brewery Tap, Bishop’s Lydeard

Cross Keys Inn, Lydford on Fosse

Quicksilver Mail, Yeovil

Brewery Tap, Sudbury

Queen’s Head, Stourbridge

Hop Inn, Swindon

Chapel @ Whitehouse Street, Middlesbrough

Doghouse, Selby

Shakespeare’s Ale and Cider House, Sheffield

Mill Valley Brewery Tap, Cleckheaton

Calder Vale Hotel, Horbury Junction

Bosun’s Brewery Co Tap Room, Wetherby

Flute and Tankard, Cardiff

Winsdor, Penarth

In the foreword, Ed writes: “I know from touring the UK and visiting pubs that there are some true delights to be discovered if you know where to look. If, however, you don’t know where to look, that’s where the Good Beer Guide comes in handy.” 

So, whether you want a country escape, an inner-city gem, or even a comedy night that serves a great pint, the Guide is your go-to for every beer or pub lover. 

Order your copy of the Good Beer Guide 2026 here.