Owners from an Eccles pub have said it is ‘a dream come true’ to be crowned the winner of Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Pubs in Britain 2026.
The local favourite, Queens Arms has been named number one out of 99 other pubs across England, Scotland and Wales in Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Pubs in Britain 2026.
Built in 1828, the Eccles pub has stood proud for nearly 200 years, watching some important moments of history — being the oldest Railway pub in the world. The Grade II listed building is tucked away behind the former Liverpool and Manchester Railway and the Bridgewater Canal and it’s just been given the recognition it deserves.
Queens Arms is owned by former accountant Anthony Sit and Mr Lo, originally from Hong Kong, who bonded over their love of Japanese food over the school gates. Since the pub reopened in 2025 it has become a clear community favourite.
Anthony and Mr Lo say the news is a “dream come true” for them.
Queens Arms have received nothing but appreciation and love on social media since they wrote a heartfelt post thanking the community for their continued support.
They wrote: “We had a dream of bringing new life to this historic 1828 pub, combining the charm and heritage of our traditional British pub with our passion for Japanese cuisine.
“It’s been quite a journey and this recognition means so much to us.
“A heartfelt thank you to our amazing team, whose hard-work and dedication make everything possible, and to all of our wonderful customers, friends and local community for your continued support.
“We couldn’t of done it without you.”
The pub serves mouth-watering Japanese classics from fired squid, chicken katsu curry, prawn tempura to udon noodles and Donburi bowls.
Good Food Guide UK took to social media to announce the exciting news to their followers earlier this week.
They said: “This brilliant little spot went straight to number one on our list, thanks to its charming cultural mash up of historic Victorian boozer and Japense Izakaya.”
The partners in crime, Anthony and Mr Lo paid a special thanks to Good Food Guide UK for recognising their little hidden gem.
They also kindly said the award is not just their achievement it is “something for the whole community to celebrate.”
If you want to make a booking to the best pub in Britain book a table on their website.
