That Beer Place in Chester, Cheshire, has been crowned National Cider and Perry Pub of the Year by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Owners Lisa and Dale Lord (pictured) will be presented with the award today at That Beer Place at 1.30pm, as part of the campaign’s Cider and Perry Month.
That Beer Place has become a hub for both beer and cider enthusiasts alike, with a real focus on showcasing a diverse range of ciders and perries.
Judges were impressed with the select and interesting variety of draught ciders and perries, supplemented by a diverse and wide choice of bottles.
The pub boasts of up to 140 real ciders and perries, promoting producers from the UK, Europe, America, and beyond, along with around 350 beers. The popular and inclusive venue attracts thirsty visitors from far and wide and is well respected within its local community.
“For the past three and a half years, we’ve had a passion for being at the forefront of championing real cider and perry, and it’s great to finally be recognised on a national level,” said Lisa.
“Our goal has always been to make Chester a destination for cider and perry celebration in the UK. This award only solidifies that vision.”
Judges praised the extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for cider and perry shown by the pub’s team, and their deep commitment to educate the public about these wonderful drinks.
That Beer Place regularly stages events with independent UK cider makers and industry experts, with plans to launch a training programme named That Cider School to teach local restaurants and drinks buyers about the diversity and variety of cider.
The pub hosts monthly Chester Cider Club meetings, which aim to foster a community of cider lovers who are open to exploring new flavours and who reject the diluted industrial drinks that masquerade under the same name.
CAMRA’s competition co-ordinator, Sarah Newson, said: “That Beer Place is a very worthy winner, and I congratulate Lisa and Dale for creating such a positive environment for cider and perry education to flourish. Their desire to put cider front and centre in the UK drinks scene is admirable, and one we can all support.
“As in previous years, the competition was fierce, with the top four all being fantastic examples of pubs who champion cider and perry.
“I would thoroughly recommend pub-goers to seek out all the regional winners and experience what a truly great pint of real cider and perry can be. The difference in taste between what these pubs can offer and the mass-produced ciders from commercial producers commonly found in supermarkets is astounding.”
The other finalists were: The Frothblowers, Peterborough; The Hop Inn, Hornchurch; and The Woodman, Bridport.
