Blackfriars Tavern, in Great Yarmouth, has been named national cider and perry pub of the year by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Photograph: Helge Nareid
It’s a Victorian corner pub, which has quickly become a must-visit destination for cider and perry lovers. More than 20 locally-sourced real ciders are available, with some from further afield.
It is also in the running to win CAMRA’s overall pub of the year title. It stocks eight ever-changing cask beers, with two permanently on the bar from the on-site brewery. There is also a wide choice of bottled Belgian beers.
“We are overjoyed to be named CAMRA’s cider and perry pub of the year 2025,” said Blackfriars Tavern landlord and freeholder Pharez Smith.
“This award is a tribute to our wonderful customers, who create the welcoming atmosphere that makes our pub special. We also thank the incredible producers, whose skill and dedication fill our cellars with variety and quality.
“Five and a half years ago we began major renovations on this disused pub, and what a journey it has been. We’ve loved connecting with our customers through a shared passion for real cider and perry. Finally, we are hugely grateful to CAMRA for their tireless work in championing these traditional drinks, and we are proud to be part of that story.”
Cider and perry pub of the year coordinator, Sarah Newson, said: “Congratulations to the team at the Blackfriars Tavern — it is a real gem of a pub and well worth seeking out. With the pub winning CAMRA’s ultimate cider and perry accolade, and also in contention for winning overall pub of the year, this is an exciting time for pubgoers in Great Yarmouth and East Anglia.
“Along with the Blackfriars Tavern, our three finalists and all the regional and national winners in this competition show just how wonderfully varied the UK cider and perry scene is today.
“If your knowledge of cider or perry is limited to the large commercial brands sold cheaply in supermarkets, I urge you to seek out these pubs to see just how amazing and varied these traditional drinks really are.”
The other finalists in the competition were the Carpenters Arms in Westrip, Gloucestershire, That Beer Place, in Chester, and the Bull and Dragon, in Meeth, Devon.
