The Severn Valley Railway is celebrating a double success after both of its pubs received recognition in this year’s Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) pub of the year awards.
The King and Castle in Kidderminster has been named Worcestershire CAMRA Pub of the Year and will now go forward to represent the county in the regional competition.
Judges praised the pub’s warm hospitality, impressive selection of quality beers and comfortable, relaxing environment that encourages conversation and enjoyment.
CAMRA spokesperson Nick Yarwood said:
“The King and Castle stands out as a fantastic community pub with a welcoming atmosphere.
“The team have achieved a remarkable transformation, offering a diverse array of consistently high-quality cask beers, real ciders and other refreshments.”
Meanwhile, the SVR’s Railwayman’s Arms at Bridgnorth has been named Bridgnorth CAMRA Pub of the Year and is now awaiting the outcome of the Shropshire Pub of the Year competition.
Nicky Freeman, the SVR’s visitor experience manager, said:
“We are absolutely delighted that both of our pubs have been recognised by CAMRA.
“Huge thanks must go to the teams at both the King and Castle and the Railwayman’s Arms, who work incredibly hard to ensure they give every customer a warm welcome and serve the best quality ales possible.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from CAMRA, whose Good Beer Guide is the gold standard for UK pub-goers. These awards are a testament to the dedication, passion and expertise of our staff and volunteers, and we wish the King and Castle every success in the regional competition.”
The King and Castle, located alongside Kidderminster Town station, has become a popular destination for both railway visitors and residents, while the Railwayman’s Arms continues to attract customers from across Bridgnorth and beyond with its range of real ales and welcoming atmosphere.
The awards reinforce the SVR’s commitment to providing high-quality hospitality alongside its heritage railway experience.