Three popular pubs from the West Midlands have made it to the finals of the Great British Pub Awards 2024. One pub in Birmingham and two in Staffordshire have been recognized for their excellence, securing spots in different categories of this prestigious competition. The winners will be revealed during a special ceremony in Manchester on September 17.
Let’s dive into what makes these pubs stand out and why they’ve earned their nominations.
Birmingham’s The Old Crown: Best Town Pub Contender
Birmingham’s beloved The Old Crown has been shortlisted for the Best Town Pub category, competing against other pubs from across the UK, including Harrogate, Stamford, Farnham, Bexleyheath, and London.
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With an incredible 655-year history, The Old Crown is not just a pub but also Birmingham’s oldest secular building. Situated in the heart of Digbeth, this iconic pub has seen centuries of change, yet continues to thrive as a hub for locals and visitors alike.
The pub’s charm lies in its ability to blend historical significance with modern comforts. Its website highlights the warm atmosphere, stating that they offer “warm welcomes, honest hospitality, and charisma in every corner.” Visitors can enjoy hearty food and a friendly environment, perfect for both long-time patrons and first-time guests.
Many visitors have shared glowing reviews of their experiences at The Old Crown. On Tripadvisor, Alba shared: “Wanted to give a special thank you to the wonderful staff at The Old Crown (especially Alex who responded to my email)!! A truly wonderful place and staff.” Another visitor, Andrew, echoed the sentiment, writing: “This old place is just amazingly old. And the well inside is really old as well. Food is delicious and the atmosphere is great. Service is nice, fast, and friendly.”
It’s no surprise that The Old Crown has made the shortlist for such a prestigious award. Whether you’re looking to experience a bit of Birmingham’s history or just want a comfortable spot to grab a drink, this pub offers something for everyone.
Tamworth Tap: A Beer Lover’s Paradise
Over in Staffordshire, the Tamworth Tap has been recognized in the Best Pub for Beer category. Competing against pubs from Poole, Clitheroe, London, and Leeds, the Tamworth Tap has become a hotspot for those who appreciate a good pint of beer.
Located in the charming town of Tamworth, the pub is not only known for its excellent selection of beers but also for its unique setting. The beer garden offers an incredible view of the historic Tamworth Castle, adding to the pub’s appeal. The 16th-century shopfront gives the pub a welcoming, traditional feel, while the inside provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere for customers.
The Tamworth Brewing Company, which brews beer on-site, has been integral to the pub’s success. Their passion for brewing quality beers has helped the Tamworth Tap earn its stellar reputation. What’s more, the upstairs rooms are designed with Tudor features, offering nooks and crannies for a truly authentic experience.
The pub’s success is further proven by its accolades. Not only is it now a finalist for the Best Pub for Beer award, but it was also named the National Pub of the Year by the Campaign For Real Ale (CAMRA) for two years running. With such a track record, the Tamworth Tap continues to impress both locals and visitors alike, making it a must-visit for any beer lover.
The Star in Penkridge: Marstons Pub of the Year Finalist
Also representing Staffordshire is The Star in Penkridge, which has made it to the finals for the Marstons Pub of the Year award. This category celebrates pubs that are part of the Marstons Brewery, and the competition is fierce. The Star in Penkridge will face off against other great pubs, all hoping to take home the prize.
The Marstons Pub of the Year award was won last year by Worcester’s Rose and Crown, so The Star has some big shoes to fill. However, with its welcoming atmosphere, great food, and excellent service, The Star is more than capable of rising to the challenge.
The pub’s location in Penkridge, a charming Staffordshire village, adds to its appeal. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or planning a longer visit, The Star offers a delightful experience. Its inclusion in the finals for this category is a testament to its quality, and patrons continue to rave about the pub’s friendly staff and inviting environment.
Other Noteworthy Finalists from the West Midlands
In addition to these three standout pubs, two more from the region have been shortlisted in other categories. The Bellringer in Stoke-on-Trent is a finalist for the Admiral Taverns Pub of the Year award, while The Royal Oak in Brandon, Warwickshire, is also in the running for the same award. Both pubs have built strong reputations within their communities, and their nominations reflect the high standards they uphold.
Conclusion
With three West Midlands pubs shortlisted for the 2024 Great British Pub Awards, the region’s rich pub culture is on full display. Birmingham’s The Old Crown, Staffordshire’s Tamworth Tap, and The Star in Penkridge have all earned their place in this prestigious competition, showcasing the best of what the local pub scene has to offer.
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As these three pubs prepare to attend the ceremony in Manchester on September 17, there’s no doubt that they’ll continue to shine, whether they take home the top prize or not. From The Old Crown’s historic charm to Tamworth Tap’s love of beer and The Star’s cozy atmosphere, each of these establishments has something special to offer.
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to visit these outstanding pubs. You’ll find great food, excellent service, and a warm welcome—qualities that have made these pubs stand out on the national stage.
