Historical report: the event or rule change described below dates to 23 January 2026. This article was researched and published by Pub Social on 10 October 2026; it was not published at the time of the event.
The Tamworth Tap in Staffordshire entered the record books on 23 January 2026 when the Campaign for Real Ale announced that it had become the first pub to win its National Pub of the Year competition three times.
CAMRA’s latest announcement awarded the venue its 2025 title, an honour revealed in January 2026. The distinction matters: the competition began in 1988, and no previous entrant had completed a hat-trick of national wins.
What judges look for
The contest is not simply a ranking of beer lists. According to CAMRA, judges consider welcome, service, inclusivity, atmosphere, décor and overall impression, alongside the quality of cask beer, real cider and perry. That makes the winning pub a benchmark for a complete visit rather than a single exceptional pint.
For the independent pub sector, the result illustrates how attention to hospitality and consistent drink quality can create a national reputation. For visitors to Tamworth, it provides a clear reason to explore the town’s pub scene, although anyone travelling should check current opening details with the venue.
Why this was a milestone
A third national title represents repeat success against a broad field of competing pubs. The award does not establish that every customer will have the same experience, but it does recognise outstanding performance against the judging criteria on multiple occasions.
Original source
Read the underlying announcement or official guidance: CAMRA.
Photograph: illustrative real-ale handpumps at an English pub; not the venue described in this report.
