The Coach and Horses pub, an institution in Soho, London, has won the Griffin Trophy as Fuller’s pub of the year.
All of the winners in Fuller’s Griffin Trophy competition
Managed by Ali Ross, it is loved by regulars and tourists alike, and is frequently listed as one of the best pubs in London.
An iconic pub, The Coach and Horses has been the setting for a number of photoshoots — most recently, for Alexander McQueen — and features frequently as the backdrop for TopJaw’s popular social media content.
It has hosted productions of the one-man play Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell. Jeffrey wrote for The Spectator for years and, like many other journalists, was regularly found in The Coach and Horses, propping up the bar.
“Ali has been with Fuller’s for 15 years and is no stranger to the Griffin Trophy, having won it at The Hydrant, Monument, in 2016, and winning her category, best city pub, last year at The Coach and Horses,” said Simon Emeny, Fuller’s executive chairman.
“She has truly pushed herself and the team to take The Coach and Horses from category winner to Griffin Trophy winner — and seeing these subtle but impactful changes during our judges’ visit was inspiring.
“The Coach and Horses has been an institution for many over the years, and in her seven years as general manager, Ali has carefully crafted it into most welcoming, famous, and inclusive pub in this wonderful part of London. The Coach and Horses, Ali, and her team are the epitome of one of Fuller’s core values — celebrating individuality. This is a truly well-deserved win.”
Ali said: “I’m over the moon to have won the Griffin Trophy. After winning my category last year, I was determined to take The Coach and Horses to the next level and secure the coveted Griffin Trophy.
“I’m looking forward to displaying it proudly behind the bar for the next 12 months. I’d like to say a big thank you to my team as well — their hard work played a key role in winning this trophy. We will definitely be celebrating the win in style.”
