The Hoptician, Dursley, has been named CAMRA’s Cider and Perry Pub of the Year after fighting off fierce competition, including from a previous winner.
The achievement is all the more remarkable as the pub has only been open for two and a half years. In that time, licensees Kerry and Kevin Farmer have carved out a space for cider lovers with an extensive range reaching up to 20 different options at times.
After a tour of the UK’s best micropubs, Kevin and Kirsty decided to take a punt on an old optician’s shop to start their own journey, despite not knowing exactly where Dursley was. Their punt paid off, though, as it’s now thriving as a major community hub, with music, DJ, and open mic nights. They also put on golf outings, organise weekly charity quiz nights, and set up a pub garden in the summer.
The ‘Hop’ has earned a reputation as the go-to cider place in the area, but they also serve five cask beers. They have crafted a wholly unique pub with walls filled with beer and cider pumpclips, cinema seats to enjoy a pint on, an old games machine, a vintage record player, and a welcoming mannequin with frequently changing attire.
“We are immensely grateful and honoured to have received such a high accolade after just two and a half years,” said Kirsty. “It really is down to the amazing community in Dursley for all their continued support. We think it’s a privilege to be part of a positive story in the hospitality industry at this time when pubs are closing and struggling.”
Sarah Newson, national cider and perry pub of the year co-ordinator for CAMRA, said: “The four finalists this year were of a very high standard, so it was particularly impressive for the Hoptician to be overall winner for 2026 as it only opened in 2024.
“It provides a showcase for quality real cider and perry, with local producers at the forefront. All wrapped up in a lovely quirky style, it’s very friendly to all, and it is a real asset to the local community, where it is much appreciated and very popular.”
The other finalists were: The Black Horse, Rampton; The Albert Tavern, Freuchie; and That Beer Place, Chester.
