The 51st edition of the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) Good Beer Guide is published today, with a foreword by Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson.
Dickinson is the lead singer of heavy metal veterans Iron Maiden, whose mascot adorns the cover of the guide. The book is also available with a more traditional cover.
Dickinson’s foreword shines a spotlight on the cultural tradition of pubs within the UK. He goes into the importance of protecting the heritage, charm, and welcoming nature of pubs and clubs, and not taking them for granted.
This year, the guide lists 82 new breweries, but notes that 142 have closed. There are 910 newly-featured pubs.
“The recent, disgraceful events surrounding the Crooked House pub in the West Midlands captured the nation’s attention,” said CAMRA national executive member Ben Wilkinson. “But while that particular scandal made the national news, so many similar cases fly under the radar.
“CAMRA is responding on two fronts. Our Pub Heritage Group is leading the way in safeguarding historic pubs, and fighting for them to be given the protection they deserve as part of our cultural heritage.
“But elsewhere, we’re working to expose the weaknesses in the planning system that affect all pubs. We want to see councils in England get the enforcement powers they need to tackle any illegal conversions or demolitions of pubs, including the power to order them to be rebuilt brick by brick if necessary.”
CAMRA chairman Nik Antona added: “The last few years have been an incredibly difficult time for the industry, and we need more support than ever before to keep our nation’s pubs and breweries open and thriving.
“I’d encourage everyone to use this year’s guide to visit the very best pubs and breweries across the UK, and support them for generations to come.”
The Good Beer Guide 2024 was launched yesterday at Signature Brewery, in London. It is available to order here.
