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Bristol pale ale named Champion Beer of Britain 2026
Judges at one of the most prestigious cask beer competitions in the world have named a pale ale brewed in south Bristol as Champion Beer of Britain 2026.
Independence from Bristol Beer Factory won the coveted award from CAMRA after a blind tasting session at Cambridge Beer Festival.
Independence, a 4.6% premium pale brewed by Bristol Beer Factory in Ashton Vale, made the final of the competition after first winning the Premium Pale, Blond & Golden Ales category.
The Champion Beer of Britain is the highest honour CAMRA can bestow upon a brewer, with judging taking two years to complete having begun with individual nominations from CAMRA members followed by volunteer tasting panels and regional competitions.
Bristol Beer Factory managing director, Sam Burrows, said he “could not be more chuffed” with the accolade for Independence.
Burrows said: “In an era when the majority of our successful contemporaries have prioritised keg, we have remained steadfastly committed to the brilliance of cask…
“We love cask. Raise a glass to independent drinkers, to indie venues and to our bold, citrusy 4.6% IPA Independence, or as we call it ‘Indy’.
“Cheers and thank you from all of us at Bristol Beer Factory.”
Bristol Beer Factory’s Independence joins a lineage of the Champion Beer of Britain whose previous winners include Landlord, Bluebird, Cwtch, JHB and Ruby Mild – photo: CAMRA
CAMRA awards director, Shelly Bentley, added: “I’m thrilled to bits to see Independence by Bristol Beer Factory claim the 2026 title of Champion Beer of Britain! It is a more than deserving winner.
“All 12 finalists in the coveted competition are fantastic examples of how the quality of UK brewing continues to climb to new heights.
“Government must improve the access to market for the UK’s amazing independent brewers, who are being blocked from getting space at the bar by the giant global brewers which have a stranglehold on our pubs.
“Make sure to come down to the Cambridge Beer Festival, one of CAMRA’s longest running and largest events, to try the best beer, cider and perry the UK has to offer.
“Let’s raise a pint and cheers to Bristol Beer Factory – a thoroughly deserving Champion Beer of Britain!”
Bristol24/7 members can enjoy free pints of Bristol Beer Factory beers every month. To find out more, visit www.bristol247.com/join
Main photo: Bristol Beer Factory
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