Tamworth Tap Crowned Greatest Pub in the UK for 2026
Introduction: Why Tamworth Tap Matters
The Tamworth Tap has been named the Greatest Pub in the UK for 2026 by Time Out, underscoring the growing national interest in independently run microbreweries and historic town-centre pubs. Located in Tamworth, Staffordshire, the venue combines heritage, local brewing and a popular public space; its recognition highlights the importance of small-scale brewing and community-focused hospitality in post-pandemic Britain.
Main body: History, facilities and accolades
From restoration to microbrewery success
George Greenaway founded the Tamworth Tap in 2017 after restoring a former tourist information centre into a pub and microbrewery. Occupying a 16th century building in the heart of Tamworth, the Tap serves as the headquarters of the Tamworth Brewing Company, offering locally produced beer alongside a varied tap list.
Choice and character at the bar
The Tap is noted for its breadth of draught options, featuring eight cask hand-pulls and 20 keg taps, catering to both real ale enthusiasts and fans of keg-conditioned beers. Visitors have described the venue as a place to while away an afternoon with a pint, reflecting its reputation as a relaxed, welcoming taphouse for real ale lovers.
Award-winning garden and national recognition
The Tamworth Tap’s beer garden, known as ‘The Hop Yard’, is acclaimed for its views and atmosphere: it is overlooked by Tamworth’s Norman castle and shares a visible section of the Saxon curtain wall. The venue’s quality has been repeatedly recognised: it was named CAMRA National Pub of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, and in 2026 Time Out crowned it the Greatest Pub in the UK.
Conclusion: Significance and outlook for readers
The Tamworth Tap’s rise from a restored tourist information centre to an award-winning microbrewery taphouse illustrates the appeal of combining local heritage with craft brewing. Its national awards and prominent location make it a destination for visitors to Tamworth and a case study for community-led pub revival. Open to the public with listed opening times of 12:00–20:00, the Tap is likely to continue attracting interest from real ale aficionados and tourists seeking a historic setting paired with contemporary brewing.
