The Bailey Head, an unassuming pub nestled in the Shropshire town of Oswestry, belies its modest exterior with an extraordinary secret: one of the most extensive selections of independent beers in the UK. This remarkable feat has recently earned the pub the coveted title of CAMRA’s Pub of the Year, a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality brews and a welcoming atmosphere. Stepping inside, one is immediately struck by the sheer variety on offer. Twelve hand-pull pumps dispense a rotating selection of six cask ales and six ciders and perries, complemented by sixteen additional draught lines. The impressive range extends beyond beer, encompassing a vast collection of gins, whiskies, rums, vodkas, wines, and other spirits, catering to diverse palates and preferences. The prices, ranging from a reasonable £3.90 for a session lager to £10 for stronger brews, further enhance the pub’s appeal.
What sets the Bailey Head apart, however, is not just its comprehensive drink selection, but its unique focus on independent breweries. The pub proudly champions small, family-run businesses, showcasing their craft beers and fostering a sense of community within the industry. The owners, Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad, can personally attest to the provenance of almost every beer on tap, emphasizing their close relationships with the brewers and their families. This dedication to independent producers is reflected in the pub’s decor, with thousands of beer coasters from past offerings adorning the ceiling, a visual testament to the pub’s extensive and ever-evolving beer repertoire. The absence of a food menu, a surprising feature for a pub of the year, perhaps underscores the Bailey Head’s unwavering focus on the art of brewing and the enjoyment of quality beverages.
The Bailey Head’s journey to acclaim has not been without its challenges. Nine years prior, the pub faced closure due to dwindling popularity. However, Duncan and Grace, driven by their shared dream of owning a taproom, saw potential in the struggling establishment. Leaving behind a volunteer-run social club in South East London, they embarked on a nationwide search for the perfect location. The Oswestry pub, then known as the Castle Tavern, captured their attention, and a swift exchange of contracts sealed the deal even before they had physically visited the premises. This leap of faith proved transformative, breathing new life into the historic pub and setting the stage for its remarkable resurgence.
Under Duncan and Grace’s stewardship, the Bailey Head has flourished, showcasing over 2,500 different cask beers and 1,000 Keykeg and keg beers since its reopening. The couple’s passion for brewing extends beyond simply serving beers; they actively collaborate with local breweries to create their own unique concoctions. From hazy IPAs to a Rose Turkish Delight Imperial Stout, their experimental brews have garnered both praise and intrigue, reflecting their adventurous spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor. A testament to their community spirit, they have also crafted special edition beers to commemorate local events, with proceeds donated to charitable causes.
The success of the Bailey Head is not only measured by its impressive beer selection and innovative brews but also by its vibrant community atmosphere. The pub has become a beloved local haunt, with regulars frequenting the establishment daily, drawn by the camaraderie and the consistent quality of the beer. A popular corner, affectionately known as “controversial corner,” becomes a hub of activity shortly after opening, filled with regulars engaging in lively conversation. This bustling atmosphere is a testament to the welcoming environment Duncan and Grace have cultivated, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among their patrons.
The Bailey Head’s recognition as CAMRA’s Pub of the Year is a well-deserved accolade, reflecting not only the exceptional quality and variety of its beers but also the passion and dedication of its owners. Duncan and Grace’s unwavering commitment to independent breweries, combined with their innovative brewing endeavors and the creation of a welcoming community hub, has transformed the once-struggling pub into a thriving establishment. The Bailey Head stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the traditional pub, reimagined for a modern audience while staying true to its core values of quality, community, and a genuine love of good beer.
