AN HISTORIC Worcestershire inn has been crowned the best country pub in Britain.
The Fleece Inn, at Bretforton, near Evesham was recently given the accolade at the Great British Pub Awards 2025.
The National Trust owned pub beat off stiff competition from hostelries across the country at a glittering awards ceremony in Leeds on September 24.
Landlord Nigel Smith, said: ‘It felt amazing to have been recognized nationally for something that we love to do.
“Winning is a great honour, and also a responsibility to fly the flag for the great British country pub. We will be working even harder to be worthy of the title in the weeks and months to come.”
The iconic rural retreat dates back to the early 15th century, and was originally built as a farmhouse by a farmer named Byrd.
Jamie Burrell Photography
It was granted a license as a public house in 1848 and remained in the same family for centuries until 1977, when the last owner, Miss Lola Taplin, bequeathed it to the National Trust.
The pub suffered a catastrophic fire in 2004 but has since been restored, and it continues to operate under the ownership of the National Trust.
It is best known for its love of English tradition, folk music and Morris dancing.
The pub crowned the UK’s top boozer was the Crown Wharf in Stone, Staffordshire.
Ed Bedington, editor of the Morning Advertiser, which organises the awards, said: “Pubs are a huge part of British cultural life and we’re thrilled to unveil the finest examples from across the UK.
“These pubs truly stand out and represent the best of the best when it comes to offering the quintessential pub experience to guests. All of our winners excel across the board.”
Visit www.greatbritishpubawards.co.uk for a list of the winners.
