CAMRA has unveiled the winners of its Pub Design Awards, which recognise innovative projects of architecture, design, and conservation in British pubs.
The Cadogan Arms, London, winner of the refurbishment category
There are five winners and four highly commended pubs across different categories, ranging from refurbishment to new build.
The award winners
New build
The Strawberry Thief, Swindon
An ambitious new-build pub for Arkell’s brewery, in a new development on the edge of Swindon known as Tadpole Village.
Conversion to pub use
Turk’s Head, Exeter (winner)
Originally an inn for more than 700 years, this property was entirely reconfigured from a pizza restaurant into a functional pub, while keeping its historical character.
bod, Matlock (highly commended)
A building that originally housed a Boots chemist, which retains its Art Deco heritage.
Fourth Fiend, Meltham (highly commended)
A conversion by the local Three Fiends Brewery of a 19th century school building, later used as a Conservative club. Use of traditional features such as matchboarding and different wall finishes gives the impression that a single large space is divided into bar and lounge areas.
Refurbishment
Cadogan Arms, London (winner)
The restoration of the pub sought to recreate the lost early Georgian architectural details and ornate timber panelling of the original building.
The George, London (highly commended)
The intensive renovation of this pub pays homage to its history as a hub for the political, cultural, and social movements of the late 18th century.
Historic England Conservation Award
Sponsored by Historic England, this award is given for work which conserves a pub’s architectural features, while updating its facilities.
Black Lion, London (winner)
A grade II* listed property dating back to 1898, with features of special historical interest in the main bar and dining room.
Spread Eagle, London (highly commended)
A pub and hotel that has been sensitively restored to a very high standard, harking back to its glorious heyday, while being exceeding respectful to the fabric of the building.
Community award
This award is reserved for outstanding refurbished street-corner locals.
Gordon Arms, Bedford (winner)
A neighbourhood venue which offers great beer, tasty food, and friendly service.
“We hope beer-lovers across the country will seek out these examples of excellence and plan visits to them, whether they are local or just visiting,” said CAMRA awards director, Laura Emson.
“It has been an incredibly difficult few years for the pub industry, so let’s all support our locals this year and raise a glass to these shining examples in pub excellence.”
