The Bailey Head, a pub in Oswestry, Shropshire, has been named the UK’s Pub of the Year after undergoing an impressive transformation. Once a struggling venue under a major pub company, owners Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad have revitalised it into a thriving community hub.
The pub’s remarkable turnaround has earned it the top spot from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), marking a significant milestone in its journey from rags to riches.
Borrowman and Goodlad purchased the pub nine years ago, after it was listed as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) by CAMRA, protecting it from redevelopment. Their dedication and passion have since won them numerous accolades, including recognition from CAMRA, the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), The Shropshire GOAT, and TripAdvisor.
Goodlad and Borrowman bought the pub 9 years ago, and went through ups and downs with the business -Credit:Bailey Head- Graham Mitchell
Borrowman credits the pub’s success to its “incredible team of welcoming and knowledgeable staff” and the loyal regulars who make the pub a vibrant hub. The Bailey Head now hosts charity events, live music, and provides welcoming spaces for locals to gather.
“We thrive on being the heart of the community—a place where people gather to celebrate or commiserate. Everyone is welcome here, whether they’re enjoying a drink alone or chatting with others”, he said, emphasising the pub’s commitment to community and inclusion.
The Bailey Head offers an impressive selection of cask beers and ciders, with 12 handpulls serving six cask beers and six ciders and perries, plus 16 other draught lines.
Grace Goodlad was clearly overjoyed as she shared, “We are thrilled and hope we can live up to the award. When we bought the pub nine years ago, it was failing. We’ve taken things one step at a time—through COVID and beyond—turning it into what it is today.”
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David Ricketts from Shrewsbury and West Shropshire CAMRA celebrated their efforts saying, “The Bailey Head’s story proves that any pub can become the best in the UK with determination and effort. This win is a testament to their vision and resilience.”
Laura Emson, CAMRA Awards Director also applauded the recipients, “In a time when running a pub is particularly challenging, Duncan and Grace’s commitment and enthusiasm are an inspiration. This award is well-deserved, and I hope it draws more visitors to their doorstep.”
Emson concluded with a call to support local pubs, “January can be an especially tough time for our locals, so please get out and visit them and provide the support that is so desperately needed for pubs across the UK.”