CAMRA names the Champion Beer of Britain 2026 - and it's fiercely independent. Read more

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Champion Beer of Britain

The Champion Beer of Britain is one of the most prestigious beer competitions in the world. It is the ultimate honour for UK brewers and has helped put many into the media spotlight.

Judging for the competition takes two years to complete, starting with nominations from individual CAMRA members and Tasting Panels, then area competitions.

All the judging adheres to a strict blind tasting policy.

An overview of the judging process Learn about our new beer styles
Bristol Beer Factory, Independence

Bristol Beer Factory, Independence

Independence by Bristol Beer Factory has been crowned CAMRA’s Champion Beer of Britain 2026 at the Cambridge Beer Festival.

Twelve amazing finalists were whittled down to Gold, Silver and Bronze winners by an expert judging panel.

Christine Cryne, Champion Beer of Britain Judging Coordinator described Independence as:

“A pale strong beer. Strong enticing citrus nose, with piney hops. Caramelised citrus, tangerines, grapefruit and digestive biscuits lead to dry peppery bittersweet finish, which lingers. Refreshing full flavoured, fruity and smooth.”

View Beer Read Press Release

Finalists

Bristol Beer Factory, Independence
Bristol Beer Factory, Independence 4.6%
“A pale strong beer. Strong enticing citrus nose, with piney hops. Caramelised citrus, tangerines, grapefruit and digestive biscuits lead to dry peppery bittersweet finish, which lingers. Refreshing full flavoured, fruity and smooth.”
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Cairngorm, Wildcat
Cairngorm, Wildcat 5.1%
Wildcat by Cairngorm was described by the judges as: “Toffee, malt hops and a little orange on the nose, flavour is dark orange marmalade with honey. The spicy hops develop and then linger in a dry bitter finish, which is balanced by some toffee notes. Well balanced and satisfying.”
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Driftwood Spars, Alfie's Revenge
Driftwood Spars, Alfie's Revenge 6.5%
Alfie's Revenge by Driftwood Spars was described by the judges as: “Fruity aroma with toffee and some pear notes. Flavour are estery overlaid with toffee and caramelised fruit. Finish remains sweet, with a bitterness which grows, alongside a little dryness. Full flavoured and rich.”
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Previous Winners

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