Three DIY enthusiasts have reached the finals of Britain's Pub Shed of the Year 2026, transforming ordinary garden spaces into elaborate "pub sheds" or "mancaves." These finalists, selected from thousands of entries, showcase a range of designs from traditional country pubs to vibrant sports bars, all equipped with amenities like beer gardens, pool tables, and entertainment systems.
The competition, now in its sixth year, highlights the growing popularity of backyard pubs, with estimates suggesting over two million are in operation across Britain, a trend that reportedly surged during the coronavirus pandemic.
One finalist is Paul Brimecome from Portsmouth, whose creation, "The Pampered Chicken," is built almost entirely from recycled materials. Measuring 9.6m by 4.8m, the structure features a pool table, a large dart wall, retro arcade games, and a fruit machine. Brimecome explained that the "pub-sport player's paradise" was constructed on the former site of a chicken coop, starting in May 2022. It was built by family, friends, and neighbors and is named in memory of a late friend. Recycled materials used include pallets and items sourced from Facebook Marketplace. The bar itself was originally from a Hong Kong sailing club, and salvaged soundproofing from a music studio was used for insulation. The shed includes a toilet and shower with disco lights, a beer chiller, and an outdoor kitchen. Brimecome described "The Pampered Chicken" as representing "friendship, sustainability, and community."
Adam Cockroft of Wakefield, West Yorkshire, is a finalist for his "Mucky Pub." He began the conversion after moving into his new home two years ago. The pub opened in May of the previous year and is decorated in a traditional pub style, complete with a games room that includes a pool table, air hockey, table tennis, shuffleboard, table football, and arcade machines. Cockroft noted that the outbuildings at the bottom of his garden were a key selling point for the house. The conversions involved adding a new floor, an inner leaf, new windows, a log burner, and a handmade bar, with all furniture purchased secondhand. The name "The Mucky Pub" originated from a phrase used when his children were young.
The third finalist is Tina and Rich Hibbs from Rugeley, Staffordshire, with their bar named "Hibbys." This space is decorated with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC memorabilia and includes an outdoor play area and beer garden. Initially conceived as a personal retreat for Rich to watch football and display his memorabilia, "Hibbys" has evolved into a venue for family and friends, catering to larger occasions and birthday parties, with the play area being a particular draw for grandchildren. The bar is equipped with a full fridge, a selection of spirits, and two beer machines. According to Tina, the bar has no clock or traditional bell, signifying its constant availability to family and friends.
The annual competition is organized by Twofatblokes.co.uk, with the winners receiving £500 worth of prizes. Ashley Turner from Two Fat Blokes Bar Sign Emporium stated that the quality of entries has made judging increasingly difficult each year. The winner of Pub Shed of the Year 2026 is scheduled to be announced live on Ngageradio.co.uk next month. Voting is open on the competition's website.