Converted shop named Britain’s best pub

The Baum in Rochdale has been crowned Britain’s best pub by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).

Camra’s National Pub of the Year competition measures all the criteria that are needed to make a great pub, including atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, value for money, customer mix and, most importantly, the quality of the beer.

The Baum, on Toad Lane in the town, has only been a pub for around 30 years, having been converted from Morris’s Hardware shop in the 1980s.

Heidi Crompton, who owns the pub with her husband Simon, said: “We were ecstatic to hear that we had been voted Camra’s National Pub of the Year. We are very proud of the team that have played an important role in The Baum’s success and it is a testament to their hard work that the consumers have recognised our pub with this prestigious award.”

“We are a family run pub with our values influencing every aspect of the business in relationships with our staff and suppliers. We are dedicated to the ‘buy local, shop local’ initiative, always willing to support independent businesses. The support from the regular customers and local Camra members is valued and we would like to thank everyone for their continued support.”

Simon started working in The Baum in 1993 and became manager in 1994 and then the couple bought the pub in 2005, just two days after having their first child.

Camra’s pubs director, Julian Hough said: “I would like to congratulate Simon, Heidi and all of the staff at The Baum on winning Camra’s national award. This close-to-town pub has a winning formula which is well supported by customers.

“The range of quality products and their fresh modern approach means I’m delighted to crown The Baum our National Pub of the Year. Go and see it for yourself and experience what a brilliant pub it is.”