Scotland’s longest-running celebration of the nation’s pubs and people is back with a bang, as the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards mark an incredible 30 years.
These awards are the heartbeat of the country’s hospitality industry, raising a glass each year to the venues, staff and standout stories that keep our social lives rich with flavour, fun and fellowship.
And this year, the public gets to play an even bigger role, with voting now open to help decide who takes home the trophies in 2025.
Last year’s winners painted a brilliant picture of Scotland’s diverse drinking and dining scene, with standouts like Cru Hospitality taking home Independent Pub Group of the Year, and Tempura in Ayr winning fans and judges alike to scoop the Casual Dining Award.
From Malones in Aberdeen to Teuchters Landing in Edinburgh, each winner brought something unique, but all shared the same soul-deep dedication to hospitality done well.
This year’s categories are as varied and vibrant as ever, shining a light on everything from whisky bars to beer gardens, sports pubs to cocktail spots, and even venues that welcome your four-legged friends with open arms.
But the awards aren’t just about bricks and mortar.
They’re about the people who bring these places to life.
The bar managers who remember your order before you reach the counter.
The mixologists who turn cocktails into works of art.
The young rising stars who are redefining what hospitality can be in Scotland today.
With Schweppes sponsoring the search for Mixologist of the Year, and categories like the Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award and Campari Bar Apprentice 2025, there’s room to celebrate both seasoned veterans and new faces alike.
Nominating is a chance to give something back to the folk who’ve served us with pride, passion and good humour.
Voting takes just moments at www.scottishbarandpubawards.com/awards, and with the deadline set for 14 June, there’s no time to dawdle.
After the votes are tallied, the finalists will be revealed, with the judges setting off on secret visits around the country to make their final decisions.
Then it all comes together at a glitzy Oscar-themed bash in Glasgow on 26 August, where winners will be crowned.
Susan Young, who has helmed the event since its inception, reflected warmly on the journey so far.
“For 30 years we’ve championed Scotland’s incredible talent,” she said.
“Through every challenge, the industry has remained resilient, passionate and full of heart.
“These awards are our way of saying thank you.”
So whether it’s the pub that pulls the perfect pint or the restaurant that serves up joy on a plate, your voice matters.
Get voting, raise a glass, and let’s celebrate the people and places that keep Scotland’s hospitality scene thriving.
