London's culinary scene has once again demonstrated its exceptional quality, with thirteen of the capital's gastropubs earning prestigious recognition in the Estrella Damm Top 50 UK Gastropubs list for 2026. The full ranking was officially unveiled during an awards ceremony held at Plaisterers' Hall in the City of London, celebrating seventeen years of this esteemed industry recognition organised by the Morning Advertiser.
The Crown Jewel: The Devonshire in Soho
Securing the coveted number one position, The Devonshire in Soho has been officially recognised as serving the country's finest pub food. This celebrity favourite has cultivated an impressive reputation over the past three years, attracting notable patrons including Margot Robbie, Ed Sheeran, Lewis Capaldi, and Nigella Lawson. Originally established as the Devonshire Arms in 1793, the venue underwent various transformations before being magnificently restored in 2023 by landlord Oisín Rogers, Flat Iron founder Charlie Carroll, and chef Ashley Palmer-Watts.
London's Distinguished Contenders
The capital's representation spans across various neighbourhoods, showcasing the diversity and excellence of London's gastropub offerings:
- The Red Lion & Sun (Highgate) - Claiming the impressive third position, this establishment is celebrated for maintaining consistent excellence and offering one of London's finest Sunday roasts.
- The Canton Arms (Stockwell) - At number eleven, this award-winning gastropub has maintained its position in the Top 50 for an impressive fourteen consecutive years.
- The Baring (Islington) - Occupying the seventeenth spot, this Grade II-listed building reinvented as a gastropub in 2022 has received widespread critical acclaim.
Notable Newcomers and Rising Stars
Several London establishments have made significant strides in this year's rankings:
- The Kerfield Arms (Camberwell) - A remarkable new entry at number twenty-five, this venue has already achieved an astonishing 4.8 average rating on Google since its reopening earlier this year.
- The Waterman's Arms (Barnes) - At position thirty-three, this 2023 opening has rapidly established itself as a mainstay of London's gastropub scene.
- The Tamil Crown (Islington) - Capturing public imagination at number thirty-five with its innovative Indian-inspired Sunday roasts that have generated significant social media attention.
Michelin-Starred Excellence and Historic Revivals
London's gastropub scene showcases both established excellence and exciting new developments. The Harwood Arms in Fulham maintains its unique distinction as London's only Michelin-starred pub, appearing at number thirty-six with head chef Joshua Cutress focusing on seasonal British ingredients and sustainability practices.
Meanwhile, The Knave of Clubs in Shoreditch represents a remarkable revival story, reopening earlier this year after thirty years of closure and immediately securing the forty-third position. This historic pub has been beautifully restored to its 1880s grandeur, complete with original Victorian advertising features.
Consistent Performers and Cultural Icons
Several London establishments demonstrate remarkable consistency and cultural significance:
- The Bull and Last (Highgate) - Returning to the list at number thirty-nine after refurbishment, this pub has been a regular feature since its 2008 founding.
- The French House (Soho) - At number forty-seven, this iconic establishment continues its nearly 140-year tradition of serving Soho's creative community with sumptuous, satisfying meals.
- The Marksman (Hackney) and The Hero (Maida Vale) - These establishments at positions twenty-three and twenty-four respectively showcase how London gastropubs blend architectural heritage with culinary innovation.
The strong London representation in this year's Estrella Damm Top 50 UK Gastropubs list underscores the capital's position as a leading destination for exceptional pub dining. From historic revivals to Michelin-starred excellence and innovative culinary approaches, these thirteen establishments collectively demonstrate why London continues to set the standard for gastropub excellence across the United Kingdom.
