Tamworth Tap named the best pub in the UK

The Tamworth Tap, a brewpub based in Staffordshire, has been named the best pub in Britain in CAMRA’s Pub of the Year competition. 

The pub, which is located in a 16th century shop front falling within the shadow of Tamworth’s historic Norman castle, just north-east of Birmingham, is housed in an elegant building, with Tudor features in the upstairs room and an historic courtyard beer terrace offering views of the castle. 

The venue has gone from being an empty premises to an iconic brewpub in under five years, and today has eight handpulls, including at least one Tamworth ale brewed on site. 

George and Louise Greenaway, who run the Tamworth Tap, said: “We can’t express how much this accolade means to us. CAMRA values have been at the core of everything we have done since we opened our doors, so we’re absolutely thrilled to have won this year’s competition. Pubs are its people, and we are surrounded by the best. We’d like to give a special mention to our amazing customers, affectionately known as ‘Tappers’, and to the truly terrific ‘Team Tap’ who make it all possible.”

The judges described their visits as “an absolutely delightful experience” with knowledgeable staff, a friendly atmosphere, attractive decor, and great selection of cask ales and real ciders on offer. 

John Rowling, Pubs Officer with Lichfield Sutton & Tamworth CAMRA Branch  added:: “For real ale drinkers, the Tamworth Tap is the jewel in Tamworth’s crown. Since it opened five years ago, The Tap has gone from strength to strength. There’s always new offerings, changes and innovations every time you visit. It has beer brewed on the premises, fantastic, knowledgeable staff and comfortable old-world décor. Add to this an award-winning rustic outdoor drinking area overlooked by Tamworth Castle and you have a pub catering to all tastes. It’s a friendly, welcoming venue serving ever-changing top quality real ales. To go from empty premises to this iconic brewpub in such a short time is real testament to the hard work put in by owners George, Louise and their staff. This top award is fully merited for a pub that espouses all the aims of CAMRA.”

Pubs in the competition were judged on the pub atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, community focus and the quality of the beer.

Runners-up in the competition are the Station House in Durham, the Horse & Jockey in Stapleford and the King’s Head in Norwich.