The Tally Ho Pub Celebrated in CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2026

The Tally Ho, a well-loved community pub in Hungerford Newtown, has been officially included in the prestigious CAMRA Good Beer Guide for 2026. This annual guide, regarded as a key resource for beer enthusiasts, highlights establishments that consistently serve high-quality cask beer. The selection process is rigorous, ensuring that only a limited number of pubs meet the strict criteria set by the guide.

Paula Loud, the pub company director, expressed her excitement about this recognition, stating, “We’re delighted to have been included in the 53rd edition of the Good Beer Guide. We are very proud of this achievement and a special thanks goes to Dave, who looks after our cellar so well.” Such acknowledgments reflect the dedication of the staff to maintaining high standards.

According to a spokesperson for CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), the guide features approximately 4,500 of the finest outlets for real ale among nearly 50,000 pubs across Britain. The selection underscores the importance of quality and consistency in serving real ale. “Your inclusion speaks volumes for the high standards of your pub, staff, and, of course, the consistent quality of your real ale,” the spokesperson added.

The criteria for selection require a pub to achieve a consistent average score of at least ‘3’—indicating “good beer in good form”—to ‘5’ for “perfect” within the National Beer Scoring System (NBSS). This assessment is based on a minimum of five scores from at least three different individuals over a 12-month period, emphasizing the importance of quality, consistency, and availability of real ale.

Historic Journey of The Tally Ho

The journey of The Tally Ho has not been without challenges. In 2012, the pub was sold by the brewing company Wadworth, much to the disappointment of local residents. In response, a community effort emerged, supported by the West Berkshire branch of CAMRA and then-Newbury MP Lord Benyon. Together, they formed a company that successfully purchased the pub, ensuring its survival against potential redevelopment.

Since its acquisition, The Tally Ho has not only endured but has also flourished, becoming a model for community ownership of local pubs. The establishment has garnered various awards, showcasing its commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry.

The Good Beer Guide 2026 is now available for purchase, providing a valuable resource for beer lovers seeking quality establishments across the UK. The recognition of The Tally Ho serves as a testament to the power of community efforts in preserving local culture and the importance of supporting independent pubs in today’s evolving landscape.