An impressive brewpub located in a 16^th century shop front falling within the shadow of Tamworth’s historic Norman castle has scooped CAMRA’s prestigious National Pub of the Year crown.

The Tamworth Tap in the eponymous town is housed in an elegant building with Tudor features in the cosy upstairs room and a historic courtyard beer terrace which offers striking views of the historic castle.

It transformed from empty premises to a destination brewpub in less than five years, and today boasts eight handpulls, including at least one Tamworth ale brewed on site. A “CAMRA corner” at the bottom of the stairs includes a rare, complete set of Good Beer Guides.

Themed events regularly take place in this bustling microbrewery, including beer tastings and paint-and-sip sessions. The courtyard features regular live music with local performers, bat-watch evenings, and the occasional screening of cult films on a large screen. The in-house Tap Times lists local happenings and forthcoming events.

The judges were impressed by the Tamworth Tap, describing their visits as “an absolutely delightful experience” with knowledgeable staff, a friendly atmosphere, attractive decor, and great selection of cask ales and real ciders on offer.

The Tap’s George and Louise Greenaway said: “We can’t express how much this accolade means to us. CAMRA values have been at the core of everything we have done since we opened our doors, so we’re absolutely thrilled to have won this year’s competition.

“Pubs are its people, and we are surrounded by the best. We’d like to give a special mention to our amazing customers, affectionately known as Tappers and to the truly terrific Team Tap which makes it all possible.”

Lichfield Sutton & Tamworth branch pubs officer John Rowling said: “I’m absolutely elated at this fantastic news that the Tamworth Tap has won this coveted top award. For real ale drinkers, the Tap is the jewel in Tamworth’s crown.

“Since it opened five years ago, the Tap has gone from strength to strength. There’s always new offerings, changes and innovations every time you visit. It has beer brewed on the premises, fantastic, knowledgeable staff coupled with comfortable old-world decor.

“Add to this an award-winning rustic outdoor drinking area overlooked by Tamworth castle and you have a pub catering to all tastes. It’s a friendly, welcoming venue serving ever changing top-quality real ales.

“To go from empty premises to this iconic brewpub in such a short time is real testament to the hard work put in by owners George, Louise and their staff. This top award is fully merited for a pub that espouses all the aims of CAMRA.

“This is the pinnacle of achievements to be voted CAMRA’s National Pub of the Year so on behalf of the customers and branch I congratulate George and Louise on their tremendous success.”

CAMRA awards director Laura Emson said: “The Tamworth Tap shows what passion and creativity can achieve in a short space of time with great beer backing up a wide range of activities in a friendly atmosphere.

“A pub doesn’t have to be a national award winner to be a vital part of a local community and following a tough few years for the industry, our support is needed more than ever. Using CAMRA's WhatPub website you can find a new pub to try, and meet with friends. Check out your local branch’s social calendar for inspiration, and CAMRA members - don’t forget to add your beer scores via WhatPub too!”

Pubs in the competition are selected by CAMRA volunteers and judged on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, community focus and the quality of the beer. Runners-up in the competition include the Station House in Durham, the Horse & Jockey in Stapleford and the King’s Head in Norwich.

The Tamworth Tap will be presented with an award for its achievement today at 1.30 pm.

Pictured below: Tap bar