A local pub has won the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA)'s Pub of the Season award.

The Exeter Arms in Uppingham has been awarded Rutland CAMRA's summer Pub of the Season award.

CAMRA is an independent organisation run by volunteers who promote and champion real ale, cider and traditional British pubs and clubs. 

It is considered one of the most successful consumer organisations across Europe. Founded by four real ale enthusiasts back in 1971, today they represent beer drinkers and pub-goers across the UK. 

They recently awarded The Railway Inn in Ketton, a great local venue owned by Jamie and Louby, Spring Pub of the Season 2023.

The Railway Inn, Ketton, can be found on the Rutland-Stamford border. Image credit: Google Maps.

Now, The Exeter Arms, a popular venue in the heart of Uppingham, has been recognised by the organisation.

Chair of Rutland CAMRA, Rich Harris, said: "Rutland CAMRA were delighted to present the summer 'Pub of the Season' to the Exeter Arms in Uppingham on Thursday 16 November. This was decided upon the 'beer scores', based upon the quality of the beers on offer, and was voted for by the Rutland CAMRA members."

The busy pub cheered as Caroline (Kaz) Billson was presented with the certificate by Rich Harris, the Chair of Rutland CAMRA, pictured at the top of this article.

Rich said that it was a "well-deserved award due to an excellent beer offering, with some courageous selections of beer on tap. 

"The Exeter Arms is a busy friendly 'locals' pub which welcomes all and is host to many local groups and organisations. They are a good example of a flourishing pub based upon good quality beer, community commitment and sound management, bucking the trend of pub closures. Why not give them a visit?"

Rich was also keen to give a shout out the two 'runner up' pubs, the Grainstore Brewery Tap and the Capt. Noel Newton, both in Oakham. He said that "all three pubs should be very proud of their achievement as judged by knowledgeable CAMRA members."

The Grainstore is the recipient of multiple CAMRA awards. Image credit: The Grainstore.

CAMRA's Good Beer Guide 2024 is also out now, and the local team have a page and a half dedicated to pubs across Rutland that the local CAMRA branch considered the best in the county.

Congratulations to Kaz, as well as the dedicated team at The Exeter Arms.

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