THRILLED staff at a traditional Worcestershire pub are “buzzing” after being crowned county winners in the National Pub & Bar Awards 2026.
The family-run Old Bush in Callow End has been recognised in the annual showcase of the UK’s finest licensed premises after a mystery nomination.
The multi-award-winning country pub by the Old Hills has a seasonal menu and range of local ales, and prides itself on its warm hospitality.
The Williams family have made the most of the beauty spot, offering pods and camping spots, and hosting the Old Bush Blues Festival.
‘Gobsmacked’
WINNERS: Pub staff Shanna Williams (sitting) with colleagues Alannah Napierski (left) and Lili Worker-Moore (Image: The Old Bush)
Shanna Williams, who runs the pub along with her parents Matt and Karen, said: “We were pretty gobsmacked when we found out we’d been picked from so many pubs across Worcestershire.
“We still don’t have a scooby about who nominated us, but we’re forever grateful as it’s a great opportunity to get our name out there.
“It’s a really nice feeling and the staff and customers are super-happy, there’s a been real buzz about the place since we found out.”
READ MORE: PUB SPY: My new favourite pub, the Old Bush at Callow End
BEAUTIFUL: The Old Bush in Callow End is tucked away off the main road, making for a tranquil setting (Image: Supplied by Matt Williams)
Competition
Along with local ales, the family, who moved into the pub in 2015, offer a shop, an on-site café with homemade food and campsite.
Although they knew they had been shortlisted, the win still came as a shock when it was announced on June 10.
AWARD: Landlady and chef Karen Williams (left) with Lili Worker-Moore, Alannah Napierski and Shanna Williams (Image: The Old Bush)
“My parents were in London for the ceremony but we didn’t fancy our chances with so much competition across the county,” Shanna said.
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IDYLLIC: The glamping pods near the Old Bush are another unique feature of this pub in Callow End (Image: James Connell/Newsquest)
“I think having so many different hospitality aspects such as the brilliant home-made food might have helped, but we still don’t know why we were nominated.
“Whatever the reason, we’re super-grateful and couldn’t be happier with the result.”
The annual awards, organised in conjunction with Pub & Bar magazine, showcase the UK’s finest establishments.
Each year they crown the best venues within 94 counties across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Regional winners are also chosen along with an ‘Industry Choice’ top 10.
Have you been to The Old Bush or another great independent pub that deserves recognition?
Let us know in the comments below.
