The four finalists in a prestigious Pub of the Year competition have been named – and one is in North Yorkshire.
Camra (the Campaign for Real Ale) has just revealed its shortlist for the hotly-fought contest.
And among the final four is The Beer Engine in Skipton.
It now has the opportunity to be named as Camra’s National Pub of the Year, one of the highest accolades afforded to Britain’s pubs.
The Beer Engine is a well-established micropub in a tiny street between the town centre and the canal, with a friendly and welcoming ambience.
Six handpumps dispense varying beers, always including one blonde or pale ale and one dark brew, plus a character beer.
Adam Davies and Steven Gregory, directors at The Beer Engine, said: “When we were voted Branch Pub of the Year for our area, we were so happy to get that accolade, and it had never even crossed our minds that we might get further in the competition.
“To go on to win the regional prize and then to get to the final four in the National Pub of the Year competition is overwhelming, but something us and our team are immensely proud of!
“We just do what we do: serve a range of beer from breweries that we’d love to see if we walked into a pub! That combined with a lovely crowd, our fabulous staff, great conversation and a fantastic atmosphere makes The Beer Engine what it is.”
Colleen Holiday, chair of the local branch of Camra, said: “Since Steve and Adam took over the Beer Engine, they have really made it their own, through expanding the beer and cider range and making it the most welcome and inclusive place possible.
“Their ideal as to what a good pub is all about is centered on customers and conversation – all supported by quality drinks and service. During Covid, they had the opportunity to expand the truly micro, micropub.
“With a leap of faith, they invested and expanded space and added a keg wall, further extending their range. They were unsure what customers would think of the changes, but no need – everyone loved it. An absolutely wonderful pub!”
The overall winner will be announced in January 2024. The other three finalists are Nelson Arms, Tonbridge; Tamworth Tap, Tamworth; and the Trafalgar Hotel, Ramsey, Isle of Man.