When you think of the UK’s best farm shop, your mind might naturally drift to regions like Yorkshire or Norfolk—known for their rich agricultural heritage. But the 2026 Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards have crowned an unexpected winner: Aubrey Allen, a long-established butcher and deli located in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.
Aubrey Allen not only secured the prestigious title of Retailer of the Year, but it also earned the accolade of Best Butcher for 2026. Beyond its top-notch meat and artisan deli offerings, the shop is famous for hosting its unique Secret Supper Clubs—highly anticipated events that have developed a dedicated following.
“We’re thrilled,” says Sarah Russell of Aubrey Allen. “We have been entering this award for over a decade, and this year it finally came to us.” Sarah credits the shop’s success to its adaptability and commitment to customer satisfaction, constantly evolving its offerings to maintain loyalty and community trust.
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The story began in 1933 when Aubrey Allen, a penniless orphan, opened his first shop in Hillfields, Coventry. Despite wartime hardships forcing a temporary shift to taxi services, by the 1970s, the business had flourished with seven shops across Coventry. The current Warwick Street shop in Leamington Spa was launched in the 1980s by Aubrey’s son, Peter. His son Russell later expanded the concept, introducing charcuterie, ready meals, and dinner party menus in the 2000s.
Innovation continued with the opening of Oscars French Steakhouse and Bistro in 2004, followed by the launch of the Aubrey Allen Butchery School in 2012—uncommon outside London—and an online shop. The Secret Supper Club, started in 2017, quickly gained a cult following. A beautifully set trestle table seats just 24 guests in the shop itself, with a waiting list that exceeds demand.
“Russell’s extensive travel inspires our menus,” Sarah explains. “The Supper Club is about making guests feel part of an exclusive experience. The element of surprise is key—no one knows what they’ll be eating, but they trust us to deliver a fantastic meal.”
The Supper Club occurs three times a year, each on a Friday night. Guests often bring friends or partners, with some groups of ladies making it a special occasion. They bring their own drinks, and the team provides clues to enhance drink pairings. Though set inside a butcher’s shop, the setting is transformed to feel elegant and inviting.
Guests often return the next day to buy cheeses or items they enjoyed over dinner, helping to strengthen the shop’s close community ties.
Chaired by renowned food broadcaster Nigel Barden, the Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Awards celebrate excellence in service, product knowledge, innovation, and community involvement. Nigel commended Aubrey Allen’s dedication spanning more than four decades and its support for staff and customers alike.
“The meat we offer is among the top one percent nationally,” says Sarah. “We visit our farmers regularly to ensure quality. We’re proud to give back too—donating food to a local homeless shelter each week and volunteering during the holidays.”
The business also hosts seasonal customer events and offers a loyalty scheme that rewards purchases in both the shop and restaurant, encouraging customers to enjoy the full Aubrey Allen experience.
Behind the scenes in Coventry, their headquarters houses a factory, cheese maturation room, and kitchen to craft ready meals, salads, and puddings. With staff tenures often spanning 10 to 20 years and a strong emphasis on training, the team delivers expert advice and personalized service.
“To win the overall Farm Shop & Deli Retailer Award means everything to us,” Sarah reflects. “It’s a testament to the passion and hard work of everyone involved.”