Tamworth Tap Creates History with Record Third National Pub of the Year Triumph
A Staffordshire pub has made brewing history by becoming the first establishment ever to secure the coveted National Pub of the Year title for an unprecedented third time. The Tamworth Tap, located near the River Anker in Staffordshire, has been crowned CAMRA's National Pub of the Year 2025 in a landmark achievement that has stunned the industry.
A Historic Setting with Modern Community Spirit
The Tudor-style watering hole, which boasts a 16th century shop front and historic courtyard beer terrace overlooking Norman Castle, was founded in 2017 and spans three floors. Despite its recent establishment, the pub has preserved numerous period features including a Georgian triple frontage and is decorated throughout with brewery memorabilia that tells the story of British brewing heritage.
What truly impressed the Campaign for Real Ale judges was the pub's exceptional community spirit, extensive charity fundraising efforts, and breathtaking scenic views. The Tamworth Tap was evaluated on multiple criteria including atmosphere, décor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression and, crucially, the quality of its cask beer, real cider and perry.
Record-Breaking Achievement in Pub Excellence
This victory marks a record-breaking achievement as the Tamworth Tap previously claimed the award in both 2022 and 2023. Since the prestigious honour was established in 1988, no pub has managed to secure the title as many times before, making this a truly historic moment for the British pub industry.
Owners George and Louise Greenaway expressed their astonishment at the unprecedented triple victory. 'When we won the first time we believed we'd reached the pinnacle of our achievements and were absolutely astounded with our second consecutive win,' they revealed. 'To have won for an unprecedented third time is beyond our wildest dreams; we are in awe of this recognition.'
More Than Just a Pub: A Community Hub
The Tamworth Tap has established itself as far more than just a drinking establishment. The pub hosts a diverse range of daily community events including craft clubs, painting nights and faith groups, creating a genuine hub for local residents. George and Louise also support various local charities through the pub, including the Royal British Legion Tamworth branch, and create Christmas hampers for St Editha's Parish Church.
'We don't just pour pints at the Tap,' the owners explained. 'We strive to give a true sense of community and give our beloved Tappers a place they like to call home, with the warmest welcome, great atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.'
Celebrating Success with CAMRA Corner
The pub proudly displays its CAMRA honours with a dedicated 'CAMRA Corner' where the stairs are decorated as a display of Good Beer Guides. Remarkably, the establishment even maintains a complete collection of CAMRA's pub guidebooks, demonstrating their deep commitment to the real ale movement.
Drinkers visiting the award-winning pub will find an impressive selection of beverages including eight cask beers from both local brewers and across the UK, complemented by ciders, gins, wines, and bottled beers.
Industry Recognition and Challenges Ahead
Andrea Briers, CAMRA Pub of the Year Coordinator, described the win as 'history in the making' and praised the Tamworth Tap's trailblazing achievement. However, she also highlighted the ongoing challenges facing pubs across the UK, noting that even triple champions like the Tamworth Tap face significant pressures.
'Pubs are hanging over a cliff edge with grossly unfair business rates, spiralling high costs and hikes to Employer National Insurance contributions heavy burdens on already tired shoulders,' Briers warned. 'Government gave no support at all in the Budget which was disastrous for the industry, and a swift U-turn is desperately needed.'
The owners' dedication to their community has been formally recognised beyond the CAMRA awards, with George and Louise receiving the town's Freedom of the Borough award for the Tamworth Tap's continued commitment to the town and community.
As the Tamworth Tap celebrates this historic triple victory, it stands as a shining example of how traditional British pubs can thrive through community focus, quality offerings, and passionate ownership in challenging times for the industry.
