The Best Pubs in Stafford
In the historic market town of Stafford, where a population of over 71,000 gathers, the pub scene is as diverse as it is welcoming. From traditional ale houses with open fires and home-cooked classics to restored cinema venues serving affordable drinks, the range spans country pubs with legendary carveries and lively sports bars with big screens. Whether you are after a dog-friendly garden, a covered outdoor deck for sunny afternoons, or a spot for live music and quiz nights, the town’s pubs offer a genuine mix of experiences rooted in local character. Come and discover the best pubs in Stafford.


1. The Hollybush
Main Rd, Seighford, Stafford ST18 9PQ, UK
Tucked away in Seighford, The Hollybush is a gem of a country pub that truly delivers on every front. Their carvery is legendary—succulent meats and fresh, creamy mash that make a Sunday lunch an event to remember. The beer is impeccably kept, the wine and cocktail list is spot-on, and the generous portions ensure you’ll leave satisfied. With a welcoming, dog-friendly garden and plenty of space for groups, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a lively catch-up.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


2. The Pickled Pig At The Bank House
Bank House, Salter St, Stafford ST16 2JU, UK
Step inside The Pickled Pig at The Bank House, a top notch cask ale bar and live music pub where tradition meets a cracking good time. Their selection of real ales is superb, the artisan pizzas are spot on, and the friendly team keeps everything running smoothly. With a log burner, a dog friendly welcome, and live music every Friday, this is the perfect spot to gather with friends for great drinks and delicious food.


3. The Bird In Hand
1, Victoria Square, Stafford ST16 2AQ, UK
If you're after a proper pub with serious character, The Bird In Hand is an absolute cracker. This traditional ale house serves up a fantastic range of real ales alongside home cooked British classics, all in a welcoming space with open fires that feels like a true local gem. The beer garden is one of the best in town, with a lovely view that makes it perfect for sunny afternoons, and they've got everything from live music to sports on the telly. Whether you're bringing the dog, catching up with a big group, or just fancying a cocktail, this place delivers on every front.
Photo by TCExplorer — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


4. The Sun Inn
7 Lichfield Rd, Stafford ST17 4JX, UK
The Sun Inn is a brilliant community hub where the beer is the star of the show, with 12 hand pulls offering a fantastic range of cask ales and rotating guests. Head out back to The Sun Deck, a covered outdoor space with its own bar serving draught beers, cans, and spirits, perfect for sunny afternoons. They host a biannual Beer Festival in May and August that pairs top brews with live music, making it a must-visit for any beer lover. It's dog-friendly, wheelchair accessible, and a welcoming spot for groups, with free WiFi and live music to keep things lively.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


5. The Tap & Spile
59 Peel Terrace, Stafford ST16 3HE, UK
Just off the main road, The Tap & Spile is a proper find that rewards those who seek it out with exceptional food and drink. The steaks are cooked to perfection, the garlic bread with trimmings is a must try, and the drinks selection covers everything from beer to cocktails. With a dog friendly welcome, outdoor seating, and plenty of room for groups, this moderate priced gem is the perfect spot for a memorable meal with attentive service.
Photo by Geoff Pick — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


6. Holmcroft
Holmcroft Rd, Stafford ST16 1JB, UK
The Holmcroft is the kind of welcoming local where you can settle in for a pint, catch every minute of the big match on the big screen, or bring the whole family for a fantastic meal that won't break the bank. Their brand new menu is packed with hearty pub classics, and with a fully stocked bar serving everything from draught lagers to cocktails, there's truly something for everyone. The outdoor beer garden is a brilliant spot for sunny afternoons, and knowing your four legged friend is welcome in the bar area makes it the perfect place to relax with the whole crew. With live music, daily deals, and a genuinely friendly team that makes you feel right at home, this is a brilliant spot for any occasion.
Photo by Derek Harper — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


7. The Spittal Brook
Lichfield Road, Stafford ST17 4LP, UK
Nestled beneath the railway bridge, The Spittal Brook is a charming country pub that rewards those who seek it out with fantastic home-cooked food and a superb range of beers. With live music, quiz nights, and poker to keep things lively, plus big screens showing all the Premier League action, there’s always something happening. The outdoor seating is perfect for sunny afternoons, and the dog-friendly welcome means no one gets left behind. Whether you're stopping in for a well-kept pint, a glass of wine, or a cocktail with a group of friends, this welcoming local is an absolute treat.
Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


8. Shrewsbury Arms
75 Eastgate St, Stafford ST16 2NG, UK
The Shrewsbury Arms is a proper, unpretentious pub where the beer takes centre stage, with a superb selection of ales and ciders kept in top condition. This welcoming local is a haven for conversation, free from intrusive screens, and boasts a beautifully redecorated interior with characterful William Morris wallpapers. It's a dog-friendly spot with outdoor seating, live music, and a brilliant weekly cheese night that adds a lovely touch, making it an ideal place for groups of friends to gather. With attentive staff and friendly patrons, this is a cracking pub that’s well worth seeking out for a quality pint and a relaxed, sociable time.
Photo by John M — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons


9. The Oxleathers
Cape Avenue, Stafford ST17 9FL, UK
The Oxleathers is a true community treasure, offering a warm and welcoming spot for everything from milestone celebrations to a casual pint. The beer and wine flow freely at very reasonable prices, while the huge garden is a delightful escape with rescued animals adding a unique, heartwarming touch. Live music and sports on the telly keep the energy high, and the buffet spreads are absolutely luscious, making it a brilliant choice for groups marking any happy occasion. This is a place where the team goes above and beyond to ensure every event feels special and every guest feels like family.


10. The Picture House - JD Wetherspoon
Bridge St, Stafford ST16 2HL, UK
Housed in a beautifully restored former cinema that first opened its doors in 1914, The Picture House is a truly unique Wetherspoon that blends cinematic history with fantastic value. You can enjoy a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails in the stunning original auditorium, or soak up the sun in the licensed outdoor area. The app makes ordering a breeze, delivering drinks in minutes and hearty, affordable meals in a flash, making it a brilliant choice for groups. It is a wonderful spot to raise a glass in a piece of local history without breaking the bank.
Photo by Simon Huguet — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons




