Going to the pub on a Sunday after a long walk is an activity most Brits hold near and dear. Like a cathartic weekly ritual, devouring a huge roast dinner plate after finally nearing the 10,000 step goal is something worth looking forward to. And with a seemingly immeasurable list of pubs to explore, the variety can be overwhelming.
That’s why a new ranking has named the best pubs in Britain according to different categories. And, it turns out, one of the winners can be reached on foot from one major coastal town in southern England.
Chaplin's & The Cellar Bar in Boscombe, Dorset, won the title of Best Community Pub at the Great British Pub Awards 2025, thanks to a lively atmosphere and strong connection with the local artistic scene.
Located on Christchurch Road, the two-mile walk to Chaplin’s from Bournemouth’s Oceanarium takes only 50 minutes to complete and makes for a lovely stroll while overlooking the area’s expansive, award-winning beaches.
Once there, the colourful pub is easily recognised and known for its quirky exterior and interior décor, which includes original artwork and bespoke furniture.
The adjacent private event space and spacious garden make it one of the most versatile venues in the area for locals and visitors to gather, while the Cellar Bar, located beneath the main pub, serves as a hub for emerging bands and grassroots performers and regularly hosts charity nights, quiz events and open mic sessions.
The food menus lean into international comfort dishes like smoked beef cheek tacos, salami croquetas and focaccia, although some traditional British fare is also served.
