The latest edition of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) best pubs guide has announced the inclusion of new pubs from Swansea and Cardiff. This guide, now in its 52nd edition, is widely regarded as the ultimate reference for beer enthusiasts seeking top-quality pints in pubs across the UK. Featuring a compilation of 4,500 esteemed pubs nationwide, the guide highlights 322 exceptional pubs in Wales. Notably, the new guide incorporates 69 previously unlisted pubs throughout the UK, spanning regions from north-west to west Wales, and from mid to north-east and south-east.
The recent additions in Cardiff include Lansdowne in the Canton area, Halfway in Pontcanna, and Lewis Arms in Tongwynlais. In Swansea, the Taproom in Mumbles secured a spot in the guide as a new entry. Despite opening just last April, this pub has already made a mark for offering a delightful “pie and a pint” experience. The broader Welsh selection also features Dic Penderyn and Winchester in Merthyr Tydfil, along with Clwb y Bont in Pontypridd, Golden Mile in Corntown, Bear Hotel in Cowbridge, and Baileys Arms in Deri, Caerphilly, among other notable inclusions.
The CAMRA guide owes its comprehensive content to the dedication of numerous volunteers who painstakingly assess and curate the best pubs annually. Each year, CAMRA hosts The Great British Beer Festival, a renowned event that honours exceptional beers across the UK. In a recent edition of the festival, Welsh breweries received accolades for their craft. Noteworthy mentions include Diablo Dragons by Bradgy Twt Lol from Trefforest winning gold in the IPAs category, as well as Jemima’s Pitchfork ale from Glamorgan Brewing securing a silver award in the Premium Bitter category.
For more insights on the featured pubs and a deeper dive into the world of exceptional beers, enthusiasts can explore The Good Beer Guide 2025 book from CAMRA. This guide is a testament to the passion and effort of beer-lovers dedicated to highlighting the best pubs for all to appreciate. The CAMRA guide continues to be a valuable resource for both seasoned aficionados and those newly venturing into the world of beer, offering a curated selection of pubs guaranteed to satisfy diverse tastes and preferences.