The Tamworth Tap Crowned UK's Best Pub for Historic Third Year
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has announced its National Pub of the Year winner, with The Tamworth Tap in Staffordshire securing the prestigious title for an unprecedented third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement sees the community-focused establishment on Market Street beating thousands of competitors across the United Kingdom to claim the top spot once again.
A Celebration of Community and Quality
Located at 29 Market Street in Tamworth, The Tamworth Tap has been widely praised for its exceptional community engagement and outstanding selection of beverages. Owners George and Louise Greenaway have been hailed as trailblazers in the industry, with CAMRA's Pub of the Year coordinator, Andrea Briers, describing their win as history in the making.
Andrea Briers emphasised the pub's significance to the local area, stating that the community is fortunate to have an incredible pub with such dedicated staff on their doorstep. Beyond its impressive drinks menu, The Tamworth Tap is renowned for hosting various community activities, special events, and featuring a beer garden that offers breathtaking views of Tamworth Castle's dramatic Norman turrets.
A Stark Warning for the Hospitality Industry
Despite the celebratory atmosphere surrounding this historic win, Andrea Briers issued a sobering warning about the severe challenges facing pubs throughout the United Kingdom. She highlighted that even with three national awards, The Tamworth Tap continues to confront the same difficulties experienced by countless other establishments across the nation.
Pubs are currently hanging over a cliff edge, Briers cautioned, pointing to several critical issues burdening the sector:
- Grossly unfair business rates that disproportionately affect hospitality venues
- Spiralling operational costs that continue to escalate
- Significant hikes to Employer National Insurance contributions
Briers expressed deep concern about the government's recent budget, which provided no support at all for the struggling industry. She described this omission as disastrous and called for an urgent reversal of the dangerous increases to business rates bills that threaten the survival of many pubs.
Call to Action for Pub Supporters
In light of these challenges, Andrea Briers made a heartfelt appeal to the public, particularly emphasising the importance of supporting local pubs during January, which traditionally represents a difficult period for the hospitality trade. I hope everybody can take the time to get out and support your local, she urged, highlighting how community patronage can make a substantial difference during these challenging times.
The recognition of The Tamworth Tap serves as both a celebration of exceptional pub culture and a reminder of the precarious position facing many beloved community establishments across the United Kingdom. As this Staffordshire pub continues to set new standards for excellence, the broader industry faces an uncertain future without meaningful government intervention and sustained public support.
