The Castle Rock Brewery team accepting their award

Castle Rock Named Pub Group of the Year at the National Pub & Bar Awards

Castle Rock has been awarded the prestigious title of Pub Group of the Year at the National Pub & Bar Awards held earlier this week in London.

The National Pub & Bar Awards, now in its eighth year, celebrate the best-loved pubs and bars across the UK, based on criteria such as customer service, design, style of offer, marketing and investment. 13 Regional Pub Winners were also announced, with The George Inn in Norton St. Philip being crowned National Pub & Bar of the Year.

Castle Rock is a brewery and pub group based behind the Vat & Fiddle pub on Queensbridge Road, Nottingham. Renowned for its multi-awarding winning range of core beers, including Harvest Pale and Elsie Mo, the company has been running an eclectic family of pubs since 1977. From traditional community pubs to craft beer bars in the city centre, notable venues include Grade II listed former canal museum, the Canalhouse, and the Embankment, once home to Jesse Boot’s office.

Managing director Colin Wilde expressed his pride and gratitude:

“It was a privilege to accept the award of National Pub Group of the Year yesterday evening on behalf of Castle Rock. I’m so proud of everybody who contributes day in and day out to have made this possible. We were up against some stiff competition and to top the leaderboard ahead of such illustrious names makes it all the more special. We’re all chuffed to pieces and so grateful to our customers for their kind words which have led to us receiving this award, and for allowing us to continue to do what we love.”

As well as holding regular community events within their pubs, Castle Rock is also a regular supporter of Nottingham Poetry Festival and Nottingham Comedy Festival. Their partnership with Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust spans over two decades, and they have brewed over 100 beers for the charity as well as raising tens of thousands of pounds over the years.

Setting them apart from other pub groups, they offer a free app-based loyalty scheme which allows their customers to earn points as they spend in their pubs, to redeem as money off their bill whenever they choose.

Vicki Saxby, operations director, commented: “We’re still reeling from the news. You won’t find a more dedicated bunch than the teams we have in our pubs. For that to be recognised on a national scale is surreal and spectacular. Our focus has always been on brewing beer people want to drink and running welcoming pubs where people want to spend their time – and we’re not alone in that mission. We feel extremely lucky to be part of such a vibrant and exciting industry.”

To find out more about Castle Rock visit their website: www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk

Posted on 28 June 2024

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Georgia Cowdrey