Cheltenham Motor Club is once again in the spotlight, competing to be named the UK’s top social club in the prestigious CAMRA Club of the Year competition. This renowned club, located on Upper Park Street and established in 1906, has already claimed the title three times, highlighting its exceptional community spirit and dedication to quality real ale.
Recognized by the Campaign for Real Ale as a warm and welcoming venue, Cheltenham Motor Club boasts a bar adorned with motoring memorabilia and offers six cask beers on draught alongside at least one cider. Beer enthusiasts can also enjoy a carefully curated selection of bottled Belgian beers. The club supports local darts and pool teams and hosts an annual beer festival, as well as frequent “Meet the Brewer” events and brewery takeovers.
Phil Gregg, CAMRA Club of the Year Coordinator, emphasized the importance of clubs in fostering community ties. He remarked, “These finalists embody the best of social clubs: friendly, inclusive environments paired with top-quality cask beers and real ciders.”
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This year’s competition features four outstanding finalists vying for CAMRA’s highest honor. Alongside Cheltenham Motor Club are Appleton Thorn Village Hall in Cheshire, Billingham Catholic Club in County Durham, and Orpington Liberal Club in London.
Appleton Thorn Village Hall has served as a community cornerstone since 1978, offering a diverse range of cask beers and traditional ciders. Billingham Catholic Club is known for its vibrant live music scene and dynamic beer selection, featuring 150 different beers annually and hosting regular festivals. Orpington Liberal Club champions local breweries and microbreweries, featuring live jazz and biannual beer festivals.
The finalists were announced at Club Mirror’s Club Awards held at the Athena in Leicester on November 26. The overall winner will be revealed in early 2026, continuing the tradition of celebrating outstanding community social clubs across the UK.