Acclaimed hidden pub earns award from CAMRA
A TOP-rated Worcestershire brewery taproom frequently described as “fabulous” with a “great atmosphere” has been named a CAMRA pub of the year.
The Bewdley Brewery Tap is hidden down a narrow lane opposite terraced houses near the River Severn in the pretty tourist town.
The brewery started up in 2008 but has gained such a following that it is about to expand with a new room at its premises in Lax Lane. Its cosy lounge near Bewdley town centre has hops cascading over the bar and its own brews made on the premises on tap.
Customers have raved about it with five-star Google reviews and it has now been awarded Gold Pub of the Year 2024 by members of Wyre Forest Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Owner Dave Carr and Bar Manager Ian Mercer lead a team at the brewery and taproom.
CAMRA branch members were impressed with their quality and knowledge of drinks on offer along with the pub’s decor and atmosphere, welcome and service. They also felt it had a good community focus and sympathy with CAMRA’s aims.
Just missing out on the top prize with a Silver award in the Wyre Forest CAMRA’s Pub of the Year award was The Hollybush in Stourport. Bronze went to The Black Star, also in Stourport.
Wyre Forest CAMRA chairman Rob Budworth said: “I’m pleased to present this well-earned award to the Bewdley Brewery Tap. They’re part of Bewdley Brewery, which has been built from scratch over the last 16 years up to the well-run local enterprise we see today – promoting brilliant ales and spirits.
“It’s good to see that a new room will be opened shortly – it’s a popular venue and they’ll need the extra space for more convivial conversation and a wall for all the awards they receive.
“Their ethic of promoting good-quality, traditional real ales in a pleasant atmosphere has proven popular with locals and visitors alike.
“This is just the sort of thriving community pub serving fantastic real ales that CAMRA like to encourage, and we have confidence that Bewdley Brewery Tap will be a strong contender in the upcoming Worcestershire County round, and hopefully further rounds.”
Customers impressed with Bewdley Brewery Tap include Sean Courtney who gave it a five-star rating and said: “Fabulous. Great range of beers at good prices, nice atmosphere without loud music!”
Ross Andrews added: “An excellent local brewery with courteous, helpful and knowledgeable staff.
“The tap room on the side of the brewery allows you to try five of their ales on hand pump. The one I tried, Baldwin IPA was in pristine condition and delicious.”