North Bedfordshire’s branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has announced its two award-winning pubs for 2025 which will now go on to compete against the county’s best boozers.
The Fox at Carlton has been awarded Branch Pub of the Year for the second time, while Town Pub of the Year is the popular Wellington Arms in Bedford town centre.
Both were commended for the part they play in their communities.
A CAMRA North Beds spokesperson said: “If you are a local real ale drinker, you almost certainly know the ‘Welly’ already. A row of eight
handpumps serves a range of real ales, mostly from microbreweries and usually including a mild and a stout. Another pair of handpulls usually serve draught cider.
“The well-stocked fridge offers a range of Belgian and other imported bottled beers. The walls are decorated with a range of pump-
clips and other breweriana, while the small rear courtyard provides a pleasant area outside.”
Read: Wellington Arms celebrates CAMRA Pub of the Year award
Liz Blackford-Sutton, landlady of The Wellington Arms, told the Bedford Independent: “I’d like to thank CAMRA for recognising the hard work and effort that goes into running a back-street pub.
“We wouldn’t be here without the love and support we get from the people of Bedford and visiting friendly faces.
“We will keep providing high quality, well-kept beer from across the counties’ breweries.”
For the second time, The Fox at Carlton has been awarded CAMRA North Beds’ Branch Pub of the Year and owner-licensee Alison Thompson said she felt very proud of the accolade.
“I’ve been here for 10-and-a-half years, and people come here for the real ale. I’m on my 1,350th unique real ale from independent breweries and it’s the variety that our customers like.
“I do tell people not to get too attached to a beer, as when it’s gone, it’s gone.
Read: Carlton pub takes CAMRA crown as North Bedfordshire pub of the year
According to CAMRA, The Fox at Carlton is “a brilliant village pub and is regularly among the final choice for our awards”.
CAMRA North Beds branch chairman, Fytton Rowland, said: “I am delighted that we can again honour two of our best pubs.
“Although they are very different, they both serve and are part of their local community. Together, they demonstrate how varied good pubs and clubs can be, and I look forward to presenting their awards.”
