St Helens Pub Reaches Final Four in CAMRA National Pub of the Year 2026
The Turks Head in St Helens has reached the final four of the Campaign for Real Ale National Pub of the Year 2026 competition. Dating back to the 1870s, the Tudor-style venue advanced beyond the regional stage to compete alongside three other UK establishments for the national title.
Contenders in the National Final
The Countryman’s Inn in Hunton, North Yorkshire, The Cockpit in Chislehurst, Greater London, and the Tamworth Tap in Tamworth make up the rest of the final shortlist features alongside the Merseyside venue. The Countryman’s Inn entered the final after securing its first win in the Yorkshire regional competition, operating in its fourth year of community ownership. Meanwhile, the Tamworth Tap is fighting for a record-breaking fourth title.
The Cockpit in Chislehurst earned its place after being crowned Greater London Pub of the Year in August. Opening its doors in December 2020 during the pandemic, the micropub features bar stools sharing space with a florist operating from the same building. Andrea Briers, CAMRA Pub of the Year coordinator, noted that all four licensees have thrived despite well-documented industry challenges.
The Turks Head Serves Community Events and Real Ales
Located near the town centre, The Turks Head offers a rotating line-up of 14 handpulls, real ciders, and a large whisky and gin bar. An upstairs Tower Lounge hosts live music and events for local community groups. Licensee Clare Harrison, who runs the pub alongside Daryl Arrowsmith who has been at the helm for 20 years, stated that reaching the final four is a dream come true for the staff, regulars, and wider community.
Gill Yates, director of CAMRA Merseyside and Cheshire, attributed the achievement to the dedication of the owners and staff, adding that televisions are kept strictly in the bar side to encourage discussion and relaxation. Avani Solutions serves as the beer quality partner for the competition’s super-regional and final stages, working alongside technology partner ICRTouch.