Staffordshire pub in last 16 of national Pub of the Year competition after winning last year

CAMRA announced the top 16 pubs in the country following a year of judging.

The final four will be announced in October, before the overall winner is announced early 2024.

Pubs in the competition are scored on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression, but most importantly – the quality of live beer, real cider and perry.

In the wake of the demolition of the Crooked House at Himley, CAMRA recently declared the issue of unlawful conversion and demolition of pubs in England a ‘nationwide scandal’. In 2017 planning law was changed so that pubs in England could not be converted or demolished without planning permission, but shocking figures published by CAMRA show that over 30 pubs may have been demolished or converted without planning permission in the last six months.

It says the recognition and celebration of top-quality pubs has never been more important in the fight to ensure that locals across the country are thriving and kept safe from demolitions such as these.

Andrea Briers, national co-ordinator for the pub of the year competition said: “I am delighted to announce this year’s final 16 pubs. I would like to congratulate each and every one of them for their hard work against a difficult backdrop for the trade with increasing energy costs, business rates and the cost-of-living crisis impacting on people visiting pubs.

“It is testament to the winners that they are facing these challenges head on and they are a shining example to what can be done. I would also like to thank their loyal customers who continue to support them in these difficult times.

“There are thousands of amazing pubs across the country and I would encourage everyone to visit their local and seek out others where they live. Not only will that support local businesses, but pubs play a vital part in communities which we want to both protect, promote and see them thrive.”

The winner for Wales is the Magic Dragon Brewery Tap which is just outside Wrexham.

It is a single-roomed pub that is the tap for the brewery. The pub is on the edge of what was known as the Beast Market, in a building that was originally the Elephant and Castle and after several changes of use is now back as a pub. Its compact interior features bare brick walls and a wood-panelled bar. Six handpumps dispense at least three Magic Dragon beers including a dark ale.

The Tamworth Tap is home to Tamworth Brewing Company and its tap. The cosy upstairs rooms have Tudor features, the historic courtyard beer terrace to the rear offers striking views of Tamworth Castle, and there is cafr-style seating to the front. Eight hand pulls usually feature one Tamworth ale.