Witney pub named Oxford CAMRA’s pub of the year 2026

Oxford’s Campaign for Real Ale branch named its best pub of this year as The Crafty Pint Bar in Langdale Court, Witney, which describes itself as a ‘fiercely independent’ craft beer bar.

The Oxford Branch of CAMRA, which covers the whole of Oxfordshire, said picking an overall winner for the coveted title of best of the year was ‘next to impossible’ with the top three narrowed down to The Crafty Pint, The Brewery Tap in Abingdon and The Red Lion in Yarnton.

The Crafty Pint Bar in Witney was named Oxford CAMRA’s Pub of the Year 2026 (Image: Melanie Cassidy)

With 85 people voting, which ‘may be the largest number ever’, according to the organisation, The Crafty Pint Bar came out on top.

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Melanie Cassidy, landlady of the craft beer bar, said: “It was so lovely to see everyone come out and support The Crafty Pint Bar as we received this monumental award, voted by CAMRA members.

Melanie Cassidy receiving the Pub of the Year certificate from an Oxford CAMRA representative (Image: Melanie Cassidy)

“So many friendly faces came to see us and it humbled me to think this space means so much to everyone not just me.

“The beers are one thing and I’m proud of the ever changing selection we offer, but it’s the people, the community, the way everyone welcomes everyone and how new friendships are forged that makes The Crafty Pint Bar what it is.”

Oxford’s CAMRA added that ‘every candidate was someone’s pub of the year’ as each of the venues nominated won votes from members, and commended the ‘excellent’ quality of the contest.