Described as a “small, friendly, independent free house which as become a haven for beer choice” in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2011, The Harp has been operated by Bridget Walsh since 1995 when she was a tenant.
Walsh bought The Harp outright in 2009 and transformed it into a pub focused on real ale and cider with a food offer based on sausages.
The pub now serves eight real ales and a selection of ciders at any one time.
Julian Hough, CAMRA Pubs director, said the most impressive aspect of the pub was the retention of it’s appeal as a “true local” despite its central London location.
“What makes a great pub is the ability for it to welcome both regulars and first time customers alike and this is something it does to perfection,” he said.
Passionate
The judges were particularly impressed with The Harp’s commitment towards promoting beer.
Kimberly Martin, CAMRA’s London regional director, said: “I never ceased to be impressed or surprised by the continuing success of a pub staffed by individuals so passionate about the real ale industry. The Harp is a perfect example of how the London cask beer scene is reaching out to new drinkers.”
The criteria for the CAMRA National Pub of the Year was a venue that demonstrated exceptional customer service, atmosphere, décor, value for money, clientele mix and quality of beer.
The runners-up of the competition were Taps in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire; Beacon Hotel in Sedgley; and Salutation in Ham, Gloucestershire.