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Disused pub that was reopened wins national title

Andrew Turnerin Great Yarmouth
News imageAndrew Turner/BBC Rachael Seaward and Pharez Smith stand at the pumps of their pub, smiling. They are each wearing black tee shirts, and smiling. Rachael has greying blonde hair and Pharez has a greying beard and hair. Behind them are bottles of spirits mounted on the back bar wall, and customers can be seen in the far right of the image.Andrew Turner/BBC
Rachael Seaward and Pharez Smith took over the pub just after lockdown, when the venue had been left in a run-down condition

A Norfolk publican said he was "overjoyed" to win a national award five years after taking over a disused pub.

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) selected the Blackfriars Tavern in Great Yarmouth as the UK's best cider and perry pub.

Stocking more than 20 locally-sourced real ciders and apple and pear-based alcoholic beverages, CAMRA said it had "great atmosphere, decor, welcome, service and quality cider and perry".

Landlord Pharez Smith said: "This award is a tribute to our wonderful customers who create the welcoming atmosphere that makes our pub special."

News imageAndrew Turner/BBC The Blackfriars Tavern is a Victorian brick-built building painted white, but modernised in the Art Deco style with features including ceramic work, one displaying a pair of monks in black habits, holding glasses of drink. To the right of the pub is a road, with carks parked near a grass are which is beside Great Yarmouth's medieval town wall.Andrew Turner/BBC
Five years ago, the pub had been shut and left in a disused state, with several locals believing the new landlord had taken a risk in planning a real ale and cider pub
News imageAndrew Turner/BBC Customers standing inside the bar area of the Blackfriars Tavern, having raised a toast, gathered together in conversation. Bunting is hanging from the ceiling, with awards, menus and other signage on the walls.Andrew Turner/BBC
Customers had celebratory drinks to toast the award

The pub, which has a swearing ban, was also commended for its friendliness and good service.

Upon receiving news of the awards, Mr Smith said: "Oh my word, oh my word! We are overjoyed to be named CAMRA's Cider and Perry Pub of the Year 2025.

"Five and a half years ago, we began major renovations on this disused pub, and what a journey it has been.

"We've loved connecting with our customers through a shared passion for real cider and perry."

Mr Smith paid tribute to his suppliers and CAMRA "for their tireless work in championing these traditional drinks".

News imageAndrew Turner/BBC Sarah Newson has long blonde hair, is wearing a necklace and has a purple v-neck top. She is holding a glass of cider, near the bar of the Blackfriars Tavern.Andrew Turner/BBC
CAMRA's Cider and Perry Pub of the Year coordinator, Sarah Newson, said the Blackfriars Tavern has a welcoming atmosphere, as well as serving some of the best beverages

The Blackfriars Tavern is now on a shortlist of 16 venues across the UK competing for the title of Best Pub.

CAMRA's Cider and Perry Pub of the Year coordinator, Sarah Newson, said: "Congratulations to the team at the Blackfriars Tavern – it is a real gem of a pub and well worth seeking out.

"Along with the Blackfriars Tavern, our three finalists and all the regional and national winners in this competition show just how wonderfully varied the UK cider and perry scene is today"

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