Ancoats gastropub named one of the best in the UK

The Edinburgh Castle Pub has been recognised by the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs as one of the best in the UK.

This marks more good news for the city’s foodies as we continue to be inundated with fabulous places to eat in Manchester.

The list was disclosed to the public at a special event on Monday night.

The Edinburgh Castle Pub named one of the UK’s best pubs

Pub proprietors gathered at last year’s leading pub, The Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland, Lancashire, to learn their rankings.

While The Parkers holds the seventh position this year, Suffolk’s The Unruly Pig claimed the coveted top spot.

Edinburgh Castle shines in Manchester’s gastropub scene

Among the notable mentions, the Freemasons at Wiswell in the Ribble Valley secured the ninth spot, representing Lancashire’s culinary prowess.

Remarkably, the sole Manchester representative in the Top 50 is the esteemed Edinburgh Castle pub in Ancoats, earning a commendable 24th place.

Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs

Now in its 16th year, the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs list relies on votes from a panel of food experts, industry leaders, writers, and journalists throughout the UK.

The ranking reflects the collective expertise and discernment of the culinary community.

The Unruly Pig’s Triumph over adversity

The Unruly Pig, owned by Brendan Padfield and chef Dave Wall, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century.

Despite facing a catastrophic fire shortly after opening, Padfield and Wall’s superlative cooking earned them accolades, securing the top spot in this year’s list.

Heft in Cumbria emerged as the highest climber, claiming the 11th spot, a testament to the culinary prowess of Kevin and Nicola Tickle.

The Pack Horse in Hayfield retained its place in the top 20, standing strong at number 19, celebrated for its stunning Sunday roasts and picturesque setting.

Noteworthy mentions and awards

The Bulls Head in Holymooreside, Derbyshire, earned recognition as one to watch, with chef-patron Mark Aisthorpe showcasing modern British cuisine in a warm and welcoming ambience.

Daniel Smith of the Fordwich Arms and the Bridge Arms in Kent was crowned Chef of the Year, while The Loch & The Tyne in Old Windsor, Berkshire, clinched the Sustainable Pub of the Year title.

Special recognition for resilience

A special recognition award was bestowed upon Yorkshire-based chef Andrew Pern.

Overcoming intense hardship when the Star in Harome burned down in 2021, Pern not only revived the business but also secured the eighth spot on this esteemed list with the relaunched and acclaimed Fordwich Arms.

Edinburgh Castle’s recognition highlights Manchester’s ongoing and seemingly rising contribution to the UK’s finest gastropubs, cementing its status as a must-visit destination for discerning food enthusiasts.