The Royal Oak in Swallowcliffe has been awarded the title of Best Local Pub at the 2026 Muddy Stilettos Regional Awards. This honor comes after the pub was rescued by James May during the Covid-19 pandemic. Mr. May identified it as the sole pub within walking distance of his Wiltshire residence. His support helped to not only preserve the establishment but also launch his gin brand, James Gin.
Muddy Stilettos Regional Awards Highlights
The Muddy Stilettos Awards, now celebrating their 13th year, aim to acknowledge creativity and excellence in independent businesses. This year, the awards attracted nearly 500,000 votes from enthusiasts across the country. The founder and editor-in-chief, Hero Brown, expressed her pride in showcasing innovative lifestyle businesses.
Other Notable Winners in Wiltshire
- Best Afternoon Tea: The Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury
- Best Café: The Wild Fig, Cricklade
- Best Boutique Stay: Longstones, Avebury Trusloe
- Best Casual Dining: Coq, Chippenham
Finalists in the Pub Category
In addition to The Royal Oak, several establishments were finalists, including:
- The Silks, Ogbourne St Andrew
- The Castle Inn, Castle Combe
The awards cover a variety of categories, from Best Yoga/Pilates Studio to Best Restaurant. This year’s edition has been particularly successful, reaching an audience of over 11 million individuals in just nine weeks.
The Muddy Stilettos Awards serve as a platform for locals to appreciate their favorite independent businesses and provide them with an opportunity to further boost their visibility and growth. A comprehensive list of winners is available on El-Balad.
