Why have we introduced an entry fee?

As we gear up for the 2024 edition of The Great British Pub Awards, we'd like to address an important change: for the first time, we're introducing a modest entry fee. We understand that this might come as a surprise, but we want to assure you that this decision was made after careful consideration of the current economic landscape.

In recent years, our operational costs have risen significantly, particularly in organising the rigorous judging process. From expert judges traversing the length and breadth of the country to meticulous administration, ensuring the integrity and fairness of the awards demands substantial resources. Thus, to sustain the quality and credibility of the awards, we've introduced a nominal entry fee.

We've endeavoured to keep this fee as low as possible, striking a delicate balance between maintaining accessibility for hardworking pub businesses and securing the future viability of our awards scheme.

Participating in The Great British Pub Awards offers unparalleled opportunities for industry recognition, professional feedback, and invaluable marketing exposure. Previous finalists and winners can attest to the transformative impact of the awards on their businesses, with some experiencing a doubling of sales following their success.

Moreover, as a finalist, you'll receive a complimentary ticket to attend the prestigious awards ceremony, where the industry's finest gather to celebrate excellence. Additionally, our 'Community Pub of the Year' category offers substantial financial incentives, with the winner receiving £5,000 and other finalists each receiving £1,000.

We invite you to seize this opportunity to showcase your pub's excellence and join us in celebrating the vibrant spirit of the British pub industry.

Warm regards,

The Great British Pub Awards team

Words from the winners...

“Winning such a prestigious award brings great attention from every corner of the country and we know, in winning, that we become the custodians of a very special prize and must live up to the high standards expected as a winner of such a coveted award. Our award has helped us shine a great light on the strength of the rural pub in the UK and we are very honoured indeed to have been able to do this for others to follow.”

Winner: Great British Pub of the Year 2023

Tim Bird and Mary Mclaughlin Owners The Cholmondeley Arms

"I've been here for almost 11 years and put so much hard work and money into the business so it's a great feeling for these efforts to pay off. To be up against some of the big companies in the industry and win shows how far we've come as an outlet. I couldn't have been prouder of myself and the team."

Winner: Best Pub to Watch Sport 2023

Justine Bedford The Royal Dyche

"The overall event was amazing. The Rose and Crown also won an award which meant so much to us as a community, local produce suppliers and most of all the staff, who work amazingly hard which is why we won an award. Following on from this the business will only benefit through winning the award."

Winner: Marston's Pub of the Year 2023

Andrew Goodall Owner Rose & Crown

"We won the award in September, just as the garden was starting to wind down after the summer but we have seen a lot of function and wedding bookings come in for this summer - all of which are keen to have a garden party vibe. We are already pretty much fully booked for weddings this year and are now taking bookings for 2025."

Winner: Best Pub Garden 2023

Sarah and Simon Colquhoun The Gaggle of Geese

"We were extremely proud to be able to support our community during such a difficult time last year and receiving this recognition for our efforts was the icing on the cake. In the 4 weeks after opening, we finished 50% up on sales compared with the same period in 2019, demonstrating the impact this investment had on the business."

Winner: Feeding the Community 2020

Phil Davison Owner The Fox at Peasemore

"It was an amazing day. Our team absolutely loved it. We're already thinking of new ideas to get us into the next one!"

Winner: Best Pub for Dogs 2023

Heather Porter-Brandwood The Bellflower

"We were incredibly proud to be recognised by such a prestigious award after the most challenging of periods in our industries history. Winning gave our team a much needed morale boost, our customers drew confidence in knowing that the venue had bounced back to be at the top of its game and agencies such as Arts Council England, The Mayor of London and our local Council were reminded of the vital contribution our venue makes to our diverse community."

Winner: Best Late Night Entertainment Pub 2021

Ken Wright The Phoenix Arts Club