One of the most beautiful pubs in the UK is an hour from Birmingham

Our pigs may be closing left, right and center in the UK, but there are still plenty of them. To stand out, you have to do something different. Sometimes they’re cheap pints, others offer unique menus, but mostly, a handsome boozer will keep us coming back again and again.

Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has revealed its winners prestigious Pub Design awards. They recognize the highest architectural standards in the renovation and historic preservation of pubs in the UK. In addition, the most innovative construction and conversion of new premises.

The awards are judged by a panel of design and conservation experts, with categories ranging from renovation to new construction. More awards were handed out on Wednesday (June 1) – including the Historic England Preservation Award for The Vines in Liverpool and Refurbishment winner the Kings Arms in Elham.

But it’s Broseley’s Pipe Makers Arms (in Shropshire) who did the West Midlands proud. Won Praised in the local community category, which is reserved for outstanding locals from the renovated street corner. And just an hour from Birmingham, it’s well worth a visit!

“It is right that the blood, sweat and tears poured into these pubs should be celebrated. I’d like to raise a glass to all these award-worthy pubs!” said Laura Emson, CAMRA Awards Director. “We hope beer lovers across the country will seek out these stunning examples of how beautiful UK pubs can be if given the proper love and care that these much-loved establishments truly deserve.”

After three months of “tasteful refurbishment” under its new name – a tribute to the area’s pipemaking heritage – The Pipe Makers Arms reopened in 2022. It is also described as “full of character” and serves real ales and craft beers of “very welcoming staff”. Since April 2024, it has been under new management.

Pub Design Award Winners:

Historic England Preservation Award (Winner) – The Vines, Liverpool

New Build (Highly Commended) – Hall & Woodhouse Taplow, Buckinghamshire

Conversion to Pub Use Award (winner) – bod Alsager, Cheshire East

Renovation (winner) – Kings Arms, Elham

Refurbishment (Highly Commended) – Crown, Chislehurst

Refurbishment (commissioned) – Bell, Tring

Refurbishment (commissioned) – Sheep & Penguin, Wells

Local community (appreciated) – Pipe Makers Arms, Broseley