A Bombay Potato Sourdough, a Pesto, Roasted Pepper & Mozzarella Babka, and a Honey & Pear Focaccia are among the medallists at Britain’s Best Loaf 2026.
The 13th edition of the annual competition, sponsored by ADM Milling, Fritsch, L&M Parnaby, Matthews Cotswold Flour, and Rademaker, took place at the NEC Birmingham on Tuesday 14 April. It saw a panel of esteemed judges – including bakery specialists at Tesco and M&S, lecturers, NPD technologists and more – assessing, prodding, sniffing, and tasting a record field of 200 entries.
Reigning Baker of the Year Tona Erreguin, who runs Imma the Bakery near Henley-on-Thames, was judged to have made the best loaf in the country this year with her Basque-style baguette, which also won the International category. A Cheese, Chilli & Sundried Tomato Sourdough from 2024 Loaf champion Tom Martin and a Wholegrain Fruit Loaf from Bread Source in Norfolk were among the other category winners.
Having been introduced last year, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals were once again awarded to the loaves that impressed the judges this time around.
“The incredible standard of entries at Britain’s Best Loaf 2026 is a clear indication that our nation is home to many talented and passionate bakers,” said British Baker editor Amy North. “To honour them with trophies and medals is our way of saying ‘well done and keep it up’ as they continue to create delicious bread for their communities.
“I also want to highlight the incredible level of innovation that can be seen across the medallists, from loaves packed with interesting flavours to ones made from sustainable ingredients, new twists on classics, and more – there’s a veritable feast out there.”
Here’s the full list of medallists for Britain’s Best Loaf 2026:
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