It’s the moment beer lovers and heritage buffs have been waiting for – The Campaign for Real Ale, CAMRA’s Pub Design Awards 2025 are in, and one London boozer has taken top honours.
Celebrating “the most visually stunning, historically significant and lovingly restored pubs across the UK”, the awards saw The Forester in Ealing scoop the coveted ‘Community Local’ category.
The accolade, judged by design and conservation experts alongside Historic England, shines a spotlight on the importance – and fragility – of the nation’s beloved pub architecture.
This year, The Forester wowed the panel with its “respectful refurbishment” of original Edwardian features, including fireplaces and striking Art Nouveau-style stained glass.
A proud Fuller’s pub, The Forester sits on a street corner in Ealing and epitomises what the Community Local category is all about – lovingly restored neighbourhood favourites with bags of charm and historical value.
Andrew Davison, Chair of the Pub Design Awards judging panel, hailed the winners for their craftsmanship and dedication to British pub heritage.
He said: “The Pub Design Awards recognise the highest standards of pub architecture, rewarding artistic flair and painstaking historical conservation.
“From inviting streetcorner locals to striking medieval coaching inns, there are some stunning pubs in the UK, and the craftmanship involved in making these venues a gorgeous place to enjoy cask beer and real cider or perry should rightfully be applauded.
“I encourage heritage enthusiasts and pub lovers alike to visit these inspirational buildings.”
And the punters seem to agree. Drinkers have been raving about The Forester on Tripadvisor, praising everything from the food to the atmosphere.
Alice C described it as a “Lovely pub! This really is a very nice, cosy pub with a good range of drinks and great food, the Thai food is incredible and I would recommend. A lovely beer garden and good for groups.”
DirkH2 added: “Several rooms where you can settle down. Most of the interior dark wood paneled. Nice and quaint.”
Sunday roasts also got glowing reviews, with Adam C saying: “We went for a Sunday roast and the food was perfect and staff was very lovely and hospitable. A highlight for me was the horseshoe of gammon. Fantastic. Good beers, good vibes.”
Not everyone was entirely pleased though. Jon noted: “Had the carvery lunch today. In two years the price has gone up by 40%.”
But with national recognition now under its belt, it’s safe to say The Forester has firmly earned its place among Britain’s most beautiful boozers.