The search is on to find Scotland’s Best Bar or Pub as entries open for the Scottish Thistle Awards 2026.
The award is one of 19 up for grabs in the annual competition which celebrates the best of the best in Scottish tourism.
Last year, The Cross Key Inns in Ettrickbridge near Selkirk, claimed a hattrick taking home the coveted title of Best Bar or Pub for the third consecutive year. Judges were particularly impressed with its focus on high-quality local food and close partnerships with local suppliers. A strong commitment to fair work practices, and developments such as a beer garden and a mother-and-baby group made it a stand-out winner.
On receiving the award at the national final held in Glasgow in November Vicki Steel, owner along with husband Rory, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to have taken home the Scottish Thistle Award — marking a hat-trick of wins for the Cross Keys Inn! To be recognised at a national level for the third-year running is incredibly special for our whole team, who work tirelessly to keep our passion for quality, community, and amazing hospitality at the heart of everything we do.”
For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards has shone a light on the people, places and partnerships that make Scotland such an unforgettable destination. From exceptional hotels and memorable eating and drinking experiences to standout visitor attractions and innovative events, the awards champion those who are raising the bar for one of the country’s most valuable industries. Delivered by VisitScotland in collaboration with Scotland’s regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards bring together five regional competitions culminating in a national final later this year. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries and inspiring staff.
The Best Bar or Pub category celebrates those offering an authentic, Scottish experience, from history, music and culture to food and drink and a warm welcome. Businesses should have sustainability at their heart and strive to support the local community.
Last year, more than 640 businesses, individuals and events entered from across the country, with 19 national winners crowned at a ceremony in November.
Since the beginning of March, people across the country have been nominating the businesses, individuals and events they believe deserve recognition. Although businesses and events need to submit a formal entry to be considered for a Scottish Thistle Award, the nomination process gives the public a chance to highlight the people and places they feel truly deserve recognition
Entries for the 2026 programme, supported by headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, part of the Abbey Group, close on 27th April.
Colin Wilkinson, SLTA Manager Director said: “The Scottish Licensed Trade Association is proud to promote the Scottish Thistle Awards which includes the Best Bar or Pub category.
The prestigious Scottish Thistle Awards celebrate Scotland’s important tourism industry and Scotland’s pubs and bars are a key integral part of the sector with nearly 75% of foreign and domestic visitors venturing into our pubs and bars. The Scottish Thistle Awards recognise those who have gone that extra mile to provide the best visitor experiences and also showcase the best the licensed hospitality sector has to offer. Entries are now open and the SLTA would encourage nominations from all those that make up the widely diverse range of premises that are Scotland’s pubs and bars. So put your entry forward now and showcase your pub or bar.”
Barbara Smith, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel, said: “Across Scotland, individuals, businesses and events go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for visitors, and the Scottish Thistle Awards offer an exciting opportunity to recognise that dedication. The awards shine a light on the enthusiasm, skill and hard work that help make Scotland such an incredible, must visit destination. Earning a Scottish Thistle Award is a standout achievement, placing winners among the very best in the country and celebrating the positive contribution tourism brings to local people, local places and the wider visitor economy. Entering is free, so if you believe you represent the very best of Scotland’s tourism and events industry, I’d encourage you to put yourself forward and showcase the exceptional talent, innovation and hospitality that define our country.”
Regional winners for Central, East and West will be announced at two finals delivered by VisitScotland in September. They will join winners from the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA), and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards, delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise, before competing for the national titles in November.
For more information and to enter, visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk