Last updated: 19 August 2026
These standards turn the principles in our Editorial Policy into practical rules for Pub & Social writers and editors.
Accuracy before speed
We should not publish a claim merely because it is circulating online. Names, dates, locations, figures, quotations and legal or heritage status should be checked against dependable evidence. When information cannot be independently confirmed, the wording must make that uncertainty clear.
Use the best available sources
Primary sources are preferred where possible: official documents, public records, direct interviews, company announcements, regulator or council material and the National Heritage List for England. Secondary reporting can provide useful context, but original reporting should be credited and linked.
Anonymous sources should be used only when the information has genuine public value and there is a sound reason to protect the person’s identity. An editor should understand who the source is and why the information is credible.
Honest headlines and context
A headline should accurately represent the article. It should not exaggerate a minor detail, imply guilt that has not been established or present speculation as fact. Images, captions and social copy should provide the same fair context as the article itself.
Reviews and venue profiles
First-hand reviews must be based on a genuine visit and should disclose relevant complimentary items, invitations or commercial relationships. A desk-researched history or venue profile must not be written as if the author personally inspected the premises. Because opening times, menus, accessibility and ownership can change, readers should be directed to verify practical details before travelling.
Quotes, photographs and rights
Quotes may be shortened for clarity but not altered in meaning. We should identify the source of supplied or licensed material where appropriate. Photographs must be original, licensed, in the public domain or used with another valid basis. Illustrations should not be presented as documentary photographs of a real event or venue.
Privacy, harm and legal care
We balance public interest with the potential for unnecessary harm. Extra care is required with children, vulnerable people, medical information, private addresses, allegations and active legal proceedings. We do not publish personal data simply because it is available online.
Independence and conflicts
Advertisers and commercial partners do not receive control over independent editorial conclusions. Sponsored or affiliate material must be labelled. Writers should disclose a material connection to a person, venue, brewery or company they cover.
Originality and digital tools
Published work should add original explanation, reporting, selection or analysis. Copying or lightly rewriting another publisher’s work is not acceptable. AI-assisted tools may support a workflow, but they are not evidence and must not invent quotes, visits, sources or images. The responsible editor remains accountable for the final page.
Corrections
Material mistakes should be corrected promptly, with a note where the change affects meaning. Readers can report concerns under our Corrections & Updates Policy or Feedback Policy.