The Harp named first London National Pub of the Year

Described as a “small, friendly, independent free house which as become a haven for beer choice” in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2011, The Harp has been operated by Bridget Walsh since 1995 when she was a tenant.

Walsh bought The Harp outright in 2009 and transformed it into a pub focused on real ale and cider with a food offer based on sausages.

The pub now serves eight real ales and a selection of ciders at any one time.

Julian Hough, CAMRA Pubs director, said the most impressive aspect of the pub was the retention of it’s appeal as a “true local” despite its central London location.

“What makes a great pub is the ability for it to welcome both regulars and first time customers alike and this is something it does to perfection,” he said.

Passionate​

The judges were particularly impressed with The Harp’s commitment towards promoting beer.

Kimberly Martin, CAMRA’s London regional director, said: “I never ceased to be impressed or surprised by the continuing success of a pub staffed by individuals so passionate about the real ale industry. The Harp is a perfect example of how the London cask beer scene is reaching out to new drinkers.”

The criteria for the CAMRA National Pub of the Year was a venue that demonstrated exceptional customer service, atmosphere, décor, value for money, clientele mix and quality of beer.

The runners-up of the competition were Taps in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire; Beacon Hotel in Sedgley; and Salutation in Ham, Gloucestershire.