The Leopard, in Norwich, has been named city pub of the year by the local branch of CAMRA, as well as the overall branch pub of the year.
The exterior of The Leopard, Norwich. Photograph: Beer Today
The pub — a favourite of Beer Today’s — has a minimum of five cask ales on at any one time. A talking point feature are nine Watneys Red Barrel fonts pouring independent craft beers, lagers, and ciders.
Their fridges are packed with a great selection of craft cans and bottled beers, alongside five traditional box ciders, too.
“It has taken a lot of hard work to get us to where we are today, and to have that recognised is amazing,” said licensees Justin and Emma McKee. “Also, a massive thank you to our amazing team and lovely customers — we wouldn’t be where we are without you!”
The Leopard will now represent the Norwich and District branch of CAMRA in the Norfolk pub of the year competition. The winner will be announced in May.
The Peasants’ Tavern, in North Walsham, has retained the title of district pub of the year, which it earned last year, in its first year of opening. It’s a firm favourite of locals and visitors, offering a selection of ever-changing ales.
“The friends, staff, and directors of the Peasants’ Tavern are blown away that we have received this award for two years on the trot,” said pub manager and director Charlie Holden. “We have only been open for two years in April and are both astounded and delighted to receive this recognition.”
As a previous consecutive winner, The White Lion, in Norwich, has been awarded cider pub of the year. Renowned for its impressive selection of ciders and ales, the White Lion has become a staple in the local cider scene.
The pub’s Oscar Gerdes said: “We’re incredibly grateful to win this award once again. We take pride in offering our customers a diverse range of ciders and ales, always kept to the highest standards. Thank you to everyone who supports us, regardless of what’s in your glass.”
Ian Stamp, chair of Norwich and District CAMRA, said: “The award for overall pub of the year was, as ever, fiercely contested, with the top two separated by the slimmest of margins.
“Given the tight margins between the scores, we encourage all CAMRA members to make use of their ability to score their favourite pub in the 2027 round of awards. Details of how to score will be sent to members by email in January 2027.”
He added: “A big congratulations to The Leopard, in Norwich, on their double win, and also to the White Lion for continuing their impressive run as cider pub of the year. And to the Peasants’ Tavern, in North Walsham, for their consecutive win as district pub of the year.
“Norwich and Norfolk boast some of the finest pubs around, and we encourage everyone to show their support. Be sure to visit these deserving winners — it’s our local venues that give the county’s social scene its unique character.”
