Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2026

Voting Opens 12 May, 2026

Welcome to the launch of our 2026 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, the longest running trade awards in Scotland.

This year, we are going to do what we do best and celebrate the people that make hospitality in Scotland great. Our theme, as you may have guessed is a nod to Glam Rock – because we think you are all Rock Stars for doing what you do best – hospitality!

This is our 31st anniversary, and as we were the very first trade awards in Scotland, I thought we would make a noise! The awards ceremony will take place at the Doubletree Hilton in Cambridge Street on 1st September with all finalists receiving complimentary tickets.

I would like to say a huge thank you to our sponsors Benromach, Black Ivy, Deanston, Hendrick’s, Hospitality Health, Inverarity Morton, Jump Ship Brewing, Kopparberg, Lightspeed, Monkey Shoulder, Jamesons, Montpeliers, Fireball, Schweppes, Sims, The DRUM and of course our media partners the Sunday Mail.

We have a few new categories this year – so check them out – we are happy to provide you with material for your socials to encourage your customers to vote. We also invite bars and pubs to put themselves forward. The final few categories will be announced later in the month but check out the website from 12th May – when voting officially opens on our dedicated website. Here’s to another terrific year.

The Categories

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Benromach is a traditional Speyside distillery, intent on making single malt the right way with true character. They keep things simple. A handful of distillers relying entirely on expertise and senses to make the finest handmade whisky; Speyside single malt matured exclusively in first-fill casks, with a subtly smoky character. Now Benromach is looking to crown a bar ‘Whisky Bar of the Year’. Each Benromach whisky has its own character, and this year they are looking for a bar with true character and staff with a passion and enthusiasm for whisky, who are able to engage with their whisky-loving customer base.

Hendrick’s Gin and Monkey Shoulder Cocktail Bar of the Year

The Cocktail Bar of the Year category is proudly sponsored by William Grant & Sons, celebrating Scotland’s most creative and talented cocktail bars through two of their most iconic brands – Monkey Shoulder Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and Hendrick’s Gin. Whether you’re putting yourself forward or being nominated by someone who knows just how good you are, if you make it through to the judging stage, bartenders will be asked to create two innovative serves using these versatile brands. It is a great opportunity to showcase the skill, creativity and personality that sets the bar apart. Whether it’s something that highlights Monkey Shoulder’s smooth, triple malt character or leans into the eccentric, botanically rich world of Hendrick’s Gin, it’s a chance to make a lasting impression on our judges and prove why this bar deserves to be named Scotland’s best.

Black Ivy & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Black Ivy and Montpeliers are partnering to offer one emerging entrepreneur the opportunity to be mentored by two of the industry’s most experienced and successful individuals over a twelve-month period. Are you successful already, but would hugely benefit from great operational and financial advice, to allow your business to grow to the next level? If so let us know what you think you would benefit. All candidates will be interviewed and receive a visit from the judges who include David Wither and Billy Lowe.

Best Bar Team

The Best Bar Team category recognises the venues where teamwork, skill, and consistency behind the bar truly stand out. Judges look for teams that deliver exceptional service under pressure, demonstrate strong product knowledge, and create a welcoming, energetic atmosphere for every guest. Attention to detail, speed without compromising quality, and a genuine passion for hospitality are key factors, along with the ability to work seamlessly together during busy shifts. This award celebrates the people who bring a bar to life and ensure every customer experience is memorable from start to finish.

Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award

Are you passionate about all things whisky, with a bold and industrious spirit? Do you love to share your whisky knowledge with your colleagues and customers, but dare to do things a bit differently? Or do you know someone that inspires you when it comes to whisky, with their hard work, optimism and authenticity? This category, ‘Whisky Guru Rising Star Award’, is for people who have developed a passion for whisky over the last few years and who have already developed a real understanding of whisky and its potential and who are keen to share this knowledge with their peers and customers. It is open to all on-trade employees or employers whether in the bar, pub, restaurant or hotel industry who are passionate about whisky and who are embarking on this journey with great enthusiasm. To enter contact Susan@ mediaworldltd.com.

DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

The DRAM is hunting for a bar that provides a welcome for pet dogs. Do you know a pub or bar that allow customers to bring their friendly pooches inside? Do they provide a water bowl and the occasional treat? If so, they could be in the running for this accolade. Judges will be bringing their own dogs on mystery visits (volunteers are queuing up!!) If you think you know a pub or hotel that fits the bill.

Fireball Best Late Night Venue

Fireball, the bold whiskey liqueur renowned for its fiery cinnamon kick, seeks late-night venues in Scotland that deliver unforgettable nightlife experiences. Celebrating excitement and energy, Fireball perfectly aligns with this award, recognising venues that embody fun, creativity, and community. Whether it’s a vibrant bar or an energetic club we want to hear from you.

If your venue stands out with its atmosphere, entertainment, and exceptional service, or you know one that does, get ready to enter.

HOSPO Manager of the Year

The Manager of the Year category, sponsored by Hospo, recognises outstanding leadership across Scotland’s pubs, bars, and hospitality venues. Judges look for managers who consistently deliver exceptional standards, inspire and develop their teams, and create a positive, high-performing workplace culture. Strong operational control, commercial awareness, and the ability to stay calm and effective under pressure are key, alongside a genuine passion for hospitality and guest experience.

This award celebrates those who lead from the front, motivate their teams to excel, and play a vital role in the success of their venue.

Hospitality Health Employer of The Year

Health and wellbeing in hospitality is being embraced by companies the length and breadth of Scotland, and this year we are seeking the hospitality operator that does the most to ensure its team is genuinely supported, valued, and set up to thrive. A key part of the criteria will include how businesses actively respond to the health, wellbeing, and day-to-day experience of their teams, from culture and working environment through to practical support and leadership.

Do you work for a business that you feel consistently goes above and beyond for its people, or do you believe you are part of one? Do you offer an environment where your team can perform at their best, grow with confidence, and feel properly supported in their roles? If so, we want to hear from you – this is your opportunity to showcase the difference you’re making and put your people-first approach forward for recognition.

Inverarity Morton Family Business of The Year

At Inverarity Morton, family isn’t just part of our story – it’s the foundation of everything we do. As a family-owned business ourselves – one that proudly celebrated 80 years in business last year – we know that the best hospitality comes from people who pour genuine care into every detail. This year we are looking for family owned businesses – bars, restaurants, hotels and pubs – that bring something real to their drinks offering. A quality offering across wine, spirits, beer and soft drinks, backed by knowledgeable, passionate teams.

If your business combines character, consistency and a commitment to standing out. If you are forward-thinking, yet rooted. Ambitious, yet true to who you are. If that sounds like your family owned business, we want to hear from you.

Jameson Best Irish Bar 2025

The world’s best Irish Whiskey – Jameson’s, is looking for Scotland’s best Irish Bar. The brand was invented by John Jameson, a Scotsman born in Alloa, who moved to Dublin in the 1770s and created Jameson’s, which went on to gain worldwide acclaim. Now the brand is looking for a bar or pub in Scotland that has a reputation for great service, good craic, live music and of course for celebrating all things Irish – from hearty Irish dishes to the drinks it serves.

Are you a great Irish pub or do you know one? Encourage your reps and your customers to vote. John Jameson’s motto was ‘Live a bit more and fear a bit less!’

Kopparberg Best Outdoor Area

If your outdoor space is the go-to spot when the sun comes out or the place that creates that sunshine feeling whatever the weather – it’s time to step forward for Best Outdoor Area at the 2026 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, proudly supported by Kopparberg. We’re looking for spaces that go beyond the basics: think standout design, clever use of space, all-weather appeal, a strong food and drink offer, and an atmosphere that keeps guests coming back. If your venue truly embodies that summer feeling, or if you know a place that fits the bill put it forward on May 12th.

Lightspeed Restaurant of The Year

The Restaurant of the Year category, sponsored by Lightspeed, the unified ePOS of sale and payments platform powering Scotland’s best businesses, and recognises venues that set the highest standards in Scotland’s dining scene, combining outstanding food quality with excellent service, atmosphere, and consistency. Judges look for restaurants that deliver a complete guest experience – from the creativity and execution of the menu to the professionalism of the team and the overall sense of occasion created for diners. Strong operational management is also key, reflecting how well a venue runs behind the scenes to maintain quality under pressure and deliver consistently at scale. This aligns with Lightspeed’s focus on empowering hospitality businesses through smart, data-driven technology that supports efficiency, insight, and exceptional service. We’re now inviting the industry and the public to have their say and vote for their favourite.

Schweppes Mixologist of The Year

Schweppes is looking for someone who knows what they are doing behind the bar – a mixologist who doesn’t just mix great drinks, but truly understands what they’re creating. We’re after someone who also knows what their clientele is looking for. Technique and style may be the buzzwords, but knowledge and the ability to deliver a high-quality experience are essential. It goes without saying that our Mixologist of the Year will be someone confident in their abilities – and this should be evident in how they communicate with the room. Of course, they must also have the skill to deliver world-class drinks. Judging will take place in a competition format – details to follow.

Jump Ship Brewing Best Lo and No Destination

TThis category, sponsored by Jump Ship Brewing, celebrates bars and pubs redefining great nights out through exceptional no and low alcohol experiences. We’re looking for venues that go beyond token gestures and instead offer a thoughtfully curated, genuinely exciting no & low range that feels as considered as everything else behind the bar. The strongest entries will show how they’ve created a destination where choice, inclusivity, and creativity come together, supported by confident staff recommendations and menus that inspire rather than compromise. It’s not about simply stocking an alcohol-free beer; it’s about shaping an experience where choosing no & low feels natural, welcome, and enjoyable. Judges will be looking for evidence of strong guest engagement, clear identity, and a bar culture that reflects changing drinking habits without losing its sense of occasion. If this fits your venue or you know a destination that has it cracked.

Sims Automatic Sports Bar of The Year

This summer is promising to be a cracker for Sport and your customers are looking for a great experience. That’s why Sims Automatics have taken up the challenge of finding Scotland’s best sports bars. The best sports bar offers an environment that encourages socialising. Cutting-edge technology such as high-definition screens and advanced sound systems, and good Wi-Fi is essential. And while they enjoy watching sport they also enjoy participating so pool tables, fruit machines and juke boxes are also a draw, but not essential. The best sports bar also have staff that offer good service but who are also genuinely passionate about sports. Do you fit this criteria or do you know a sports bar that does?

DRAM Community Pub of The Year

The Community Pub of the Year award celebrates the pubs that are so much more than just a great place for a drink – they’re the beating heart of their local area. We’re looking for pubs that go above and beyond for the communities they serve, whether that’s fundraising for local charities, hosting community events, supporting local causes or simply being the place that brings people together when it matters most. If your pub is embedded in the fabric of its community, with strong ties to local charities and organisations and a genuine commitment to making a difference beyond the bar, we’ll want to hear from you.

The Drum Bar and Pub Social Media Champion

This category recognises venues that have truly mastered the digital space, building vibrant online communities and bringing their brand to life across social platforms. Judges look for creativity, consistency, and authenticity in content, along with strong audience engagement and storytelling that reflects the personality of the venue. From standout visuals and clever campaigns to real-time interaction with customers and effective use of trends, this award celebrates those who use social media not just as a marketing tool, but as an extension of their hospitality.

Hotel Scotland Independent Multiple Operator of the Year

The Independent Multiple Operator of the Year award, celebrates an independent pub group that consistently delivers excellence across multiple venues. This award recognises operators who bring personality, outstanding service, and a passion for great hospitality to every location they run. With a commitment to quality, innovation, and community, these trailblazers are shaping the future of the pub scene, one unforgettable experience at a time.

New Bar of The Year

This category celebrates the most exciting new bar to burst onto Scotland’s hospitality scene, opening its doors after 1st September 2025. Judges are looking for venues that have hit the ground running — delivering exceptional drinks, outstanding service, and a memorable atmosphere that has already made its mark on the industry. Whether it’s a bold new concept, a beautifully designed space, or a passionate team creating something truly special for their community, this award recognises the best of Scotland’s next generation of bars.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year

Scotland’s leading Sunday newspaper is on the hunt for the best pub in the country — and yours could be in the running! Whether you’re a traditional local with loyal regulars, a lively city hotspot, or a cozy countryside retreat, we want to hear from you. Do you pride yourself on a warm, welcoming atmosphere? Do your customers keep coming back because of your great service, friendly staff, and unforgettable experiences? Then it’s time to step into the spotlight. Encourage your customers to vote for you.