Chester-based venue takes top honours with its unique approach to modern, exciting ciders and a commitment to educating and engaging a new generation of cider lovers.
Chester, 2024 – That Beer Place has been crowned the UK’s Cider & Perry Pub of the Year 2024 by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), following a winning streak that saw the venue first take the title of West Cheshire’s Cider & Perry Pub of the Year. After this local win, That Beer Place advanced to the Merseyside & Cheshire regional heat, where they again came out on top, securing their place in the national finals and ultimately taking the top honour. This prestigious award highlights That Beer Place’s dedication to showcasing the diversity and craft of cider, setting it apart as a leader in the industry.
“We’re chuffed to bits to be named CAMRA’s National Cider & Perry Pub of the Year 2024! For the past 3.5 years, we’ve had a passion for being at the forefront of championing real cider and perry, and it’s great to finally be recognised on a national level,” said Lisa, co-owner of That Beer Place. “Our goal has always been to make Chester a destination for cider and perry celebration in the UK. This award only solidifies that vision.”
While known for its extensive beer selection, That Beer Place has carved out a niche in the cider world by offering a range that goes beyond the ordinary. With over 120 ciders and perries from the UK and around the world, That Beer Place’s selection features everything from light, floral perries to bold, tannic ciders. This modern approach attracts people who are keen to explore the full spectrum of what cider can be.
“Cider’s reputation has been tarnished for years by industrialised products. It’s often viewed as something cheap, sugary, and very one-dimensional,” says Dale, co-owner of That Beer Place. “Yet, it can have the depth, complexity and craftsmanship of wine or craft beer and we’re passionate about showcasing its full potential and educating our customers about the true diversity of these incredible drinks.”
That Beer Place Chester
This national recognition not only highlights That Beer Place but also shines a spotlight on Chester as a vibrant hub for quality drinks and experiences. The win is a testament to the city’s thriving independent scene and its ability to attract people from across the UK.
That Beer Place’s commitment to the local community is evident in its collaborations with Chester’s restaurants, running events like cider-paired tasting menus and the monthly Chester Cider Club, which has become a hub for people to explore and learn.
The team is also developing ‘That Cider School,’ an educational programme aimed at demystifying cider for both consumers and industry professionals. “At That Beer Place, education is at the heart of what we do. We’re always learning, always exploring, and we love bringing our customers along for the ride,”
With plans underway for their first-ever North West Cider Salon in 2025, to be hosted at Chester’s iconic Storyhouse, That Beer Place is poised to continue pushing the boundaries for cider’s reputation and how it is perceived. “If you think this is good, then just wait… we’re ready to take cider even further and we want everyone on board for the journey ahead,” adds Dale.
