Bristol CAMRA unveil pub of the year

The Horseshoe, in Chipping Sodbury, has been named pub of the year by the Bristol and District branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

The Bar at The Horseshoe. Photo: Facebook/The Horseshoe

In second place is the Merchants Arms, Hotwells. The awards will be presented at The Horseshoe tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8pm and at the Merchants Arms on Thursday at 8pm. Everyone is welcome.

“Pub of the year is not just about the beer and the judges have to consider the full customer experience and whether a pub offers that extra something,” said Bristol and District CAMRA chairman Richard Brooks.

“This year the judges commented that they particularly liked the atmosphere, friendly staff, community focus and overall feel of The Horseshoe, Chipping Sodbury.

“The Merchants Arms, in Hotwells, is clearly on a roll as it scooped runner-up branch pub of the year for the second year running. The judges found it to be a welcoming local community with a cozy interior and excellent real ale.”

Jo Lewis, owner of The Horsehoe, said: “I am absolutely delighted to accept such a prestigious award on behalf of the Horseshoe from CAMRA. To be recognized and noticed how passionate we are as a team really blew me away. We will never be satisfied and will continue to strive to make The Horseshoe a fantastic pub.”

Mike Wilkins, owner of the Merchants Arms, said: “It is with no less humility that I am delighted to accept this award this year.

“It’s been a tough year, in the trade, which has been well documented. I’m so lucky to have a fantastic team supporting me and a brilliant crowd of clients who love what we do. Last but not least, thank you to CAMRA for this award. I hope to see you all on Thursday night at the presentation.”

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