With the sheer number of brilliant bars and boozers dotted around the capital city, it’s rather tricky to pinpoint which of them are the very best of the bunch. But that, my friends, is where Muddy Stilettos comes in. Each and every year, the lovely lot over at the leading lifestyle publication scour the length and breadth of the country in a bid to uncover the twinkliest gems of all. With categories ranging from farm shops and fitness instructors to florists and family experiences; they dish out a diverse array of annual accolades. And the winners of the 2026 edition of the Muddy Stilettos Awards have just been revealed.
Now in their 13th year, the annual awards endeavor to shine a light on the brilliant local businesses that continue to make life in London (and beyond) a whole lot more enjoyable. And whilst I would thoroughly enjoy shouting from the rooftops (both figuratively and literally) about every single one of London’s wonderful winners, today I’m going to focus on the category in which I am the most well-versed. The pub, of course.
The most loved local pub in London (according to Muddy Stilettos)
Nabbing the crown as the best-loved local boozer in London is The Coach & Horses in Barnes. This charmingly wonky watering hole is perched mere moments from both the River Thames and Barnes Green, making it a pretty perfect pitstop is you’re out on a sunny stroll. According to local records, the centuries-old building dates all the way back to 1776. And the sloping floors, dark wood paneling, and big old stain-glass windows certainly all add to the historic character of the place.
Boasting a rather hefty beer garden (the biggest in Barnes, in fact), an unbeatable atmosphere, an extensive ale selection, and a menu that’s filled to the brim with classic pub grub and seasonal produce; it’s not to hard to see why this brilliant Barnes boozer is beloved by locals and visitors alike. The Coach & Horses certainly had some stiff competition for the title, but managed to beat out the legendary likes of The Anglesea Arms in South Kensington, The Devonshire in Soho, and The Red Lion and Sun in Highgate. Not bad, hey?
You can peruse Muddy Stilettos’s full list of award-winning spots here.
