The Norwich and District branch of CAMRA has announced its city and district pubs of the year, as well as its overall branch pub of the year.
The Cock , in Dereham, has been voted district pub of the year. The White Lion, in Norwich, was voted city pub of the year and also went on to take the branch title.
A real favourite with ale and cider drinkers alike, The White Lion describes itself as ‘a village pub in the city’. “We are ecstatic to receive pub of the year!” said the pub’s Oscar Gerdes.
“With so many great pubs in Norwich, it’s a great accolade, which follows on from our cider pub of the year award to boot. Of course, none of this would be possible without the great team we have, along with all the ongoing support from our customers. And don’t forget all the great breweries out there. Thank you all again, and keep an eye on our Facebook page for details on our presentation party.”
The White Lion will now go forward to the Norfolk pub of the year competition, to be announced in May.
The Cock, in Dereham, is known as a ‘proper pub’ where great ales are the centrepiece. LIcensee Steve Garner said: “We launched our new real ale-focused pub, The Cock, in January 2020, only to be closed by Covid in March. The knock-on effect delayed our entry into the Good Beer Guide, but how things have changed in the last few months!
“We regularly see customers from outside the area, as well as from Dereham, but with this award and recognition we hope many more will come to visit The Cock, not just for great ale, but for the character, friendly atmosphere, and entertainment we provide.
“I’d like to thank our staff, customers and CAMRA members for this award. It means so much to us all, we’re delighted.”
Ian Stamp, chair of the Norwich and Norfolk CAMRA branch, said: “I would like to congratulate the two winners. After the demands of the last few years and the challenges of Covid still weighing heavily on the industry, it is fantastic to celebrate our very best pubs and hope more people will visit and enjoy them and the local ales they carefully manage
and serve.”
