The Dog and Duck Inn is among 17 pubs across the UK competing to be crowned the best in their region as part of the Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) prestigious Pub of the Year competition. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the pub specializes in independent beers, ciders, and spirits. Its bar features fourteen taps, including four traditional cask handpumps, typically offering one real ale and three ciders.

The Dog and Duck Inn also houses the Glenwinny microdistillery, which produces small-batch rum, brandy, and whiskey using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can sample the spirits and even book personalized tours and tasting experiences.

Pubs in this competition are judged on atmosphere, décor, hospitality, service, inclusivity, overall impression, and most crucially—the quality of live beer, real cider, and perry.

Andrea Briers, National Coordinator for the Pub of the Year competition, commented: “These outstanding pubs are the best of the best, and I encourage everyone to visit the 17 winners across the UK—they offer exceptional beer, cider, and perry, run by dedicated and welcoming

staff. Supporting your local pub year-round is essential, especially given the ongoing challenges with high energy prices, fluctuating costs, and unfair business rates.”

This year marks the first time a Northern Ireland pub has been named a winner, as the region was previously part of a joint Scotland and Northern Ireland competition. The regional and national finalists will now vie for the UK National Pub of the Year title, with the top four being selected in late September. The overall winner will be announced in January 2025.