After an incredible month of voting, nominations and support from pub lovers across the UK, Pub Social can officially reveal the results of The People’s Pub of the Month – May 2026.
Hundreds of comments were submitted, with communities rallying behind their favourite locals and sharing the stories that make Britain’s pubs so special. From community fundraising and live music to friendly staff and welcoming atmospheres, the competition showcased exactly why the British pub remains at the heart of local life.
🥇 1st Place – The Woodman, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent
Taking the top spot is The Woodman in Hanley.
Supporters described the pub as welcoming, friendly, inclusive and packed with community spirit. Voters repeatedly praised landlady Katie and her team for creating a venue where everyone feels at home. The pub received dozens of nominations highlighting its live music, quiz nights, poker evenings, social groups, real ale selection and warm atmosphere.
Many voters commented that The Woodman has become a genuine community hub and one of the standout pubs in Stoke-on-Trent.
🥈 2nd Place – Help Me Thro, Bury
Finishing in second place is Help Me Thro in Bury.
The pub received huge support from customers who praised landlords Stephen and Tom for transforming the venue into a thriving local destination. Comments highlighted the pub’s community spirit, homemade food, Sunday roasts, live entertainment, quizzes, bingo nights and welcoming atmosphere.
Many voters described Help Me Thro as the beating heart of the local community and credited the management team with bringing the pub back to life.
🥉 3rd Place – The Golden Lion, Fareham
Claiming third place is The Golden Lion in Fareham.
The Golden Lion attracted strong support from customers who praised its friendly owners, welcoming staff, live music programme, quiz nights, bingo events and community atmosphere. Several nominations highlighted the effort made by the team to create a pub that welcomes everyone and provides entertainment throughout the week.
The pub has clearly become a favourite among many local residents and earned its place among this month’s finalists.
A Huge Thank You
Pub Social would like to thank every pub that took part and every person who voted. The response to our first People’s Pub of the Month competition has been incredible and demonstrates just how passionate people remain about their local pubs.
Congratulations to:
🥇 The Woodman – Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent
🥈 Help Me Thro – Bury
🥉 The Golden Lion – Fareham
The competition returns this month, so keep an eye on Pub Social for the launch of The People’s Pub of the Month – June 2026.
Real Pubs. Real People. Real Stories. 🍻
