A couple from Rugeley, Staffordshire, have been named winners of Britain’s best pub shed after investing £25,000 and several years in crafting their own DIY backyard sports bar.
Tina and Rich Hibbs have transformed their garden into a stunning football-themed pub shed, affectionately called Hibby’s. The impressive 20ft by 10ft structure is decorated with Wolverhampton Wanderers FC memorabilia and boasts a range of features including a Pac-Man arcade machine, a large-screen TV, and a fully stocked bar serving lager and cider on draught. Outside, there is a play area and a beer garden complete with traditional pub benches and tables.
The Hibbs' creation stood out from over 1,000 entries in the national Pub Shed of the Year competition, taking the top prize for 2026.
READ MORE: Man Admits Stealing Meat, Fish and Cheese from Co-op Amid Financial Struggles
READ MORE: State Pensioners Aged 67 to 77 Could Receive £1,071 Monthly Under Andy Burnham Plan
Tina, a 48-year-old baker and mother of two, expressed her surprise at their win: “We were really shocked to win, just gobsmacked. We didn’t expect it. When I entered, my husband just said, ‘What have you gone and done that for?’ He didn’t think we stood a chance.”
The couple celebrated the announcement with friends and family, many of whom regularly enjoy the space designed for gatherings and entertainment. Tina revealed, “Our friends love it. I’m not sure about our neighbours, but we haven’t had any complaints. The shed definitely gets more attention than the house.”
The project began in 2018 with help from a friend who assisted with constructing the shell of the building. Rich, 57 and a former skip company owner, initially wanted a quiet place to watch Wolves matches and showcase his extensive memorabilia collection. Over time, Tina and Rich have added numerous features, including a barbecue area and a children’s play space.
Tina explained, “We wanted a retreat for Rich to watch football and display his Wolves collection, but also a family space where everyone could get together safely. We’ve slowly developed it with furnishings and additions. The bar now caters for large occasions, with enough room for Christmas dinners, birthday parties, and other celebrations. It’s a real hub for family and friends.”
The fully stocked bar includes two Blade beer taps and an extensive spirit selection, ensuring refreshments are always at hand. Interestingly, there is deliberately no clock or traditional pub bell, emphasising the bar is “always open” to their loved ones.
The Pub Shed of the Year competition is organised annually by Two Fat Blokes Bar Signs and Ngage Radio, celebrating the creativity and passion behind home pub sheds across the country.
Ashley Turner, CEO of Twofb.com, said, “We started Pub Shed of the Year because we genuinely love what we do. Seeing our signs in gardens and sheds worldwide inspired us to recognise the very best pub shed and man cave projects. Hibby’s Bar is a truly deserving winner this year.”
Danny Drayton, CEO of Ngage Radio, added, “We’ve been part of the pub shed community for many years and enjoy working with Two Fat Blokes on this competition. Every year, the quality of entries keeps improving, showcasing incredible dedication and craftsmanship.”
The Hibbs’ award-winning pub shed stands as a testament to their hard work and love of football, family, and community spirit.