Breweries roll out by the barrel

One of the best pubs in the UK - Kelham Island Tavern landlord Trevor Wraith and barperson Naomi Ayers.

Nationally more than 200 breweries started up, a 10 per cent increase for the third consecutive year, bringing the total number to 1,424 – the highest it has been since the 1930s and 1940s.

Roger Protz, editor of the Good Beer Guide 2016, which is out today, said: “British brewing has never been in better health, with a third consecutive year of over ten per cent growth and more different beers being brewed than ever before.

“The range of beers available to beer drinkers now is colossal and we’re seeing real competition between pubs who want to serve the best selection of real ales.”

It comes as the Kelham Island Tavern, in Sheffield, was named as one of the UK’s “Top 16” pubs according to Camra. The pub - described “as a two-roomed freehouse with impressive garden showcasing rare and local microbrewery beers” - retains its title as Yorkshire pub of the year for the second year running and now goes into competition for the title of the country’s top pub.

Landlord Trevor Wraith said: “Beer quality is paramount. It’s no good having a shiny looking pub and spot on service if you hand over a beer that’s not of the top quality.”