The Living Room Micropub a Finalist at the UK Small Business Awards
The Living Room, the micropub and craft beer taproom that opened on Station Road in Whitley Bay this summer, is a finalist for Best New Business at the UK Small Business Awards 2026.
One of Whitley Bay's newest places to drink is already getting national attention. The Living Room, an independent micropub and craft beer taproom at 20 Station Road, has been named a finalist for Best New Business at the UK Small Business Awards 2026.
As reported by Whitley Bay News, the pub only opened this summer. It was founded by Paul Hughes, who lives locally.
What it offers
The Living Room serves craft beer alongside wine, spirits, soft drinks and alcohol-free options. There is a quiz every Sunday at 5pm, and the pub also hosts community activities. It posts updates on Instagram at @livingroomwb.
Reflecting on the shortlisting, Paul Hughes said: "Building a small business takes a lot of hard work, and being recognised nationally means a great deal."
The awards night
The winners will be announced on Saturday 19 December at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. The ceremony will be live-streamed, and a National Top 10 will also be revealed on the night. The shortlisting was also covered by Bdaily on 14 October.
Why it matters
A national shortlist for a business that is only a few months old is a good sign for independent food and drink on Station Road. Small micropubs like this tend to rely on regulars and word of mouth, so recognition on this scale can make a real difference in the first year.
If you are planning a night out, our guides to the best pubs in Whitley Bay, the best cocktail bars in Whitley Bay and the best beer gardens in Whitley Bay have more ideas. We will share the result once the winners are announced in December.
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