Hanley and Burton named among England’s 10 greatest pub towns

Hanley and Burton have both made a national top 10 of England’s greatest pub towns, with traditional Stoke on Trent pubs and Burton’s famous brewing heritage earning praise.

Two Staffordshire towns have been named among England’s greatest places for a pint, with both Hanley and Burton earning a place in a national top 10.

The Telegraph included the two Staffordshire locations in its list of England’s 10 greatest pub towns, compiled by travel writer Will Hawkes following research for the publication’s 2026 guide to the UK’s best pubs.

The list celebrates places with strong traditional pub cultures, affordable pints and community focused pubs, putting Hanley and Burton alongside destinations including Ludlow, Halifax, Hastings, Huddersfield and Stockport.

For Staffordshire, having two places included in a national list of just 10 is a welcome recognition of the county’s long standing pub and brewing heritage.

Hanley praised for its traditional pubs

Hanley was singled out from Stoke on Trent’s six towns, with The Telegraph describing it as perhaps the strongest of the six when it comes to pubs.

The Coachmakers Arms was highlighted for its traditional layout, including its cosy lounge, small snug and central passageway.

Also recognised was the Golden Cup Inn, which has recently undergone a £250,000 restoration.

The Telegraph noted the pub’s family connection, explaining that it was once run by owner Steven Buckley’s grandmother, Betty, while also highlighting the restored exterior and its dark green tiling.

Its inclusion places Hanley alongside some of England’s better known destinations for traditional pubs, while drawing attention to a side of the city centre that can sometimes be overlooked.

Burton’s brewing history puts it among England’s best

Burton’s place on the list is closely linked to the town’s remarkable brewing heritage.

Once at the heart of the global brewing industry, Burton remains home to major brewing operations today, while generations of beer making have left behind a strong collection of traditional pubs.

The Telegraph highlighted several, including the Coopers Tavern, Devonshire Arms and The Elms.

The Burton Bridge Inn was particularly praised. The pub has its own brewery at the rear and was described as a fitting place to reflect on Burton’s brewing tradition.

Although Burton’s brewing industry is smaller than it once was, the town’s pubs remain a visible connection with the industry that helped shape its history and identity.

Two Staffordshire towns in England’s top 10

Hanley and Burton are joined on the list by Dudley, Halifax, Hastings, Huddersfield, Ludlow, Ramsgate, Southsea and Stockport.

Their inclusion puts two very different parts of Staffordshire into the national spotlight.

For Burton, it is recognition of a brewing story known far beyond the county. For Hanley, it shines a light on traditional pubs that continue to form part of Stoke on Trent’s character.

And for Staffordshire as a whole, it is another reminder that some of England’s best loved pub culture can be found much closer to home than people might expect.