The finalists for Britain's Pub Shed of the Year 2026 have been revealed, showcasing a range of elaborately decorated backyard 'man caves' equipped for socializing and entertainment. These DIY creations, ranging from traditional countryside pubs to sports bars, compete for the title against thousands of other entries.
One finalist is Paul Brimecome of Portsmouth, whose creation, "The Pampered Chicken," is constructed almost entirely from recycled materials. Measuring 9.6m x 4.8m, this pub-sport player's paradise includes a pool table, a large darts wall, retro arcade games, and a fruit machine. Built on the former site of a chicken coop, the project began in May 2022 and was a collaborative effort by family, friends, and neighbors. The shed is named in memory of a late friend, Carol, who used to joke about their chickens being the most pampered. The bar itself was salvaged from a Hong Kong sailing club, and windows were sourced from a local renovation. Salvaged soundproof insulation from a music studio was used to create a cozy atmosphere, complemented by a toilet and shower with disco lights. A second-hand beer chiller serves drinks, and the venue even hosts a darts team called "The Pampered Peckers." An outdoor kitchen area is also part of the design, emphasizing friendship, sustainability, and community.
Another contender is Adam Cockroft from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, who built "The Mucky Pub" after moving into his new home two years ago. This space, which opened in May of the previous year, is decorated in a traditional pub style and features an extensive games room with a pool table, air hockey, table tennis, shuffleboard, and arcade machines. Cockroft noted that the outbuildings at the bottom of his garden were a significant draw for the property, providing a solid base for the conversions. He added a new floor, an inner wall, new windows, a log burner, and a handmade bar. All furniture was purchased second-hand, adhering to the traditional pub theme. The name "The Mucky Pub" originated from a phrase used when he and his family would go out for drinks when his children were young.
Rounding out the finalists are Tina and Rich Hibbs from Rugeley, Staffordshire, with their bar named "Hibbys." This space is adorned 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 collection, "Hibbys" has expanded to accommodate larger family and friend gatherings. With two daughters and five grandchildren, it now serves as a venue for birthday parties and special occasions, with the play area being a particular hit with younger visitors. The bar is equipped with two beer machines and a full selection of spirits. Notably, there is no clock or traditional pub bell, as the bar is intended to be always open for family and friends.
The annual competition is organized by Twofatblokes.co.uk, with winners receiving £500 worth of prizes. The popularity of backyard pubs in Britain has surged, with estimates suggesting over two million are now in operation, a trend that reportedly exploded during the coronavirus pandemic. Ashley Turner of Two Fat Blokes Bar Sign Emporium stated that the quality of entries has increased each year for the competition's sixth iteration. The winner of Pub Shed of The Year 2026 will be announced live on Ngageradio.co.uk next month. Voting is open on the competition's website.