The George in Bethersden is the AFRM CAMRA 2025 Pub of the Year.

From left to right: Roger Kelly (treasurer, The George Community Ltd committee), David Day (branch secretary AFRM CAMRA), Cllr Jessamy Blandford (Ward members for Weald Central), Alex Withington (deputy chair, The George Community Ltd committee), Jim Miles (Chef at The George, Bethersden), Sarah Collyer (Chairman AFRM CAMRA), Adam Joy (Front of House Manager, the George, Bethersden), Robin Draper (chair, The George Community Ltd committee), Katie Lam MP (Member of Parliament, Weald of Kent).

POTY Presentation

The presentation took place on Friday 23rd May at 12:30.

Less than two years after reopening as a community pub, in May 2023, The George in Bethersden is delighted to have been presented the Ashford, Folkestone and Romney Marsh CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) Branch Pub of the Year 2025. Before reopening the pub had been closed for two and a half years post COVID, so this achievement is one that all those involved are extremely proud of.

Robin Draper, Chair of The George Community Ltd, expressed his thanks to the entire team that contributed to the award. “Being awarded Pub of the Year is not just an accolade for the pub; it’s for all our customers, friends and supporters. We’d especially like to send a massive thank you to all the team at the pub for their hard work and contribution to our success. We’re grateful for all their efforts.”

The pub has prided itself on the choice of real ales and ciders, supporting local breweries, and specifically for the regular rotation of guest ales, providing a platform for small producers. Two beer festivals a year, with live music and a family dynamic, add to the celebration of real ales that has been a purpose of The George since reopening.

Other regular community events, such as the monthly quiz and music bingo nights, as well as a bi-weekly board games night and hosting Knit and Natter and Chatty Café meetings, also contributed to the award through local initiatives.

Sarah Collyer, Chair of CAMRA, Ashford, Folkestone and Romney Marsh, is delighted for the winning pub: “When The George reopened in May 2023, CAMRA realised that the community pub was taking real ale seriously and achieving this award for a pub covered by our branch area is recognition of that commitment to delivering the perfect pint. We are delighted that the George in Bethersden is in our patch and look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength.”

Words and picture provided by Jane Baerselman, PR Officer, The George Community

The Smugglers' Alehouse which opened in February 2015 sadly closed on Sunday 9 February 2025. This was due to the lease expiring and the owner (who owns the barbers next door) wanting the shop for his own use.

The Smugglers' Alehouse will be sadly missed by all the regulars and occasional visitors and we wish Julie all the best for the future.