Who are we to argue with CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) about what constitutes a pub? Whether it’s a bar, bottle shop or micropub, Hop & Scotch is a worthy winner as Birmingham’s ‘Pub of the Year’ – having also won the accolade last year, as well as West Midlands’ County Pub of the Year.
Based in Kings Heath, Hop & Scotch has been open for more than five years – specialising in real ales and craft beers. At this independent bar and bottle shop, you’ll find a rotating selection of cask, keg, and bottles from some of Britain and beyond’s best beers and ciders. Plus, gin, whisky and wine if you prefer.
Don’t expect any food though, this a pub-pub – a throwback to days before gastropubs on every street corner – where high-quality drinks sit front and centre. Birmingham CAMRA called the pub “amazing” when it announced its winner this week (March 8), as it narrowly two other incredible Birmingham drinking holes.
In third place, the Old Moseley Arms in Balsall Heath is “a fantastic traditional pub also serving amazing curries.” Part old-school boozer, part Indian eatery, it was Birmingham’s ‘Pub of the Year’ in 2013 and 2014 – and is home to a selection of ale, TV sports screens, open fires for winter, and a large beer garden for summer.
The Colmore Tap placed second, described as “a city centre pub from Thornbridge brewery, and a former winner in CAMRA’s Pub Design Awards for its conversion from a bank.” Based on New York-style bars – with marbled tables, chandeliers and cosy corners – you’ll find this stylish pub on Colmore Row. It also serves a selection of craft beer, hand-picked wine and Milanese-style pizzas.
“We’ve been voted Birmingham CAMRA Pub of the Year for the second year running!” said the Hop & Scotch on social media. “A big thank you to all who voted for us, and to our loyal customers and friends who have always supported us. We now go through to the next round to fight to retain our West Midlands County Pub of the Year win from last year!”
Other finalists for Birmingham’s ‘Pub of the Year’ were the Bull, Craven Arms, Lamp Tavern, Wellington, and The Wildcat Tap. Meanwhile, The Hop & Scotch will now have to wait and see if it can retain its crown as West Midlands’ County Pub of the Year for 2024. To learn more about the winner head here.