Toasting five Wigan watering holes which have won CAMRA awards
Experts have been raising a glass to five Wigan hostelries who have gone above and beyond for drinkers.
The local branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has announced the winners of its annual awards.
Pub of the Year has been awarded to the Swan & Railway Hotel on Wallgate. The historic pub, which underwent a sensitive restoration in 2019/20, was praised for its character and its consistently high standards. Judges highlighted its excellent range of real ales, all served in superb condition, making it a standout venue within the local pub scene.
Landlord Iain Wright said: “To win Wigan CAMRA Pub of the Year after being runner-up for a few years makes is incredibly special for us.
"We’re absolutely delighted and grateful to our great team, all our loyal customers, who come from all over the country, and everyone who has supported us year after year.”
The Club of the Year goes to Bispham Hall Club. Widely recognised for its role in supporting the local community, the club regularly serves up to three real ales, all maintained to a high standard.
Cider Pub of the Year has been awarded to Sherringtons, Swinley. Open since 2019, Sherringtons has quickly become a valued addition to the area, offering an impressive range of ciders, including three or four real ciders at any one time.
The Community Pub of the Year award once again goes to The Albion Ale House, Standish. The pub continues its remarkable record of winning the award every year.
Judges described the Albion Ale House as a model for community engagement, noting its warm, inclusive atmosphere and strong local ties.
The Best New Cask Outlet award has been presented to the Wigan Brewhouse Taproom, located on the first floor of the historic Wigan Brewhouse building off Wallgate in Wigan town centre.
Open to walk-in customers for just over a year, the taproom offers four of the brewery’s own beers alongside a wider drinks selection and has been described as a magical and increasingly popular addition to Wigan’s pub scene.
Organisers congratulated all the winners and praised the continued strength and diversity of pubs, clubs and taprooms across the borough.