A Staffordshire pub overlooked by a Norman castle has been named the best in the country in an annual awards scheme.
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has given the National Pub of the Year crown to The Tamworth Tap, a brewpub located in a 16th century shop front in the town.
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.
The Market Street pub lay empty just five years ago and has since become popular for its regular themed events including beer tastings and ‘paint and sip’ sessions.
It boasts eight handpulls – including at least one Tamworth ale brewed on site – and also hosts live music and bat watch evenings in its courtyard.
Owners George and Louise Greenaway 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.”
Pubs in the competition are selected by CAMRA volunteers and judged on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, community focus and the quality of the beer.
John Rowling, Pubs Officer with Lichfield, Sutton and Tamworth CAMRA Branch, said: “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.”
Awards Director Laura Emson added: “The Tamworth Tap shows what passion and creativity can achieve in a short space of time with great beer backing up a wide range of activities in a friendly atmosphere.”
The venue is also on the shortlist for the Pub of the Year title in the Enjoy Staffordshire Tourism & Good Food Awards 2023, reported by Daily Focus here.
