Alma Tavern wins Worcester News Best Pub 2022

The accolade has gone to Alma Tavern on Droitwich Road in Worcester after hundreds of people cast their vote in the competition.

ALL SMILES: Co-owner of Alma Tavern Will Bradley

READ MORE: We look inside city pub that's gone from rundown to 'safe haven' loved by all

Best Pub 2022 competition winners - Alma Tavern

Alma Tavern is owned by ex-policeman Jon Dean, 51, and hospitality savant Will Bradley, 38, and over the years they are proud of the community they have built. 

However, the pair have announced they are set to leave the pub following health issues and the loss of several family members brought about the decision.

The interior decoration follows a modern contemporary and relaxed vibe but the menu cooks up traditional pub food for its punters along with a selection of platters. 

Mr Dean said: "We're over the moon to have won the competition. 

"It's a fantastic endorsement of everything we have achieved.

"The local community have supported us through the last two years which have been very challenging for everyone.

READ MORE: Votes for Worcester News Best Pub 2022 competition needed by Sunday

Alma Tavern: Jon Dean pulling a pint (Image: NQ)

"It's a bittersweet feeling. It's an endorsement of everything we have achieved, but on the other side of the coin, we are sad to be leaving such a wonderful community. 

"We're upset to go, but we've created an award-winning pub." 

Over the years, the pub has earned a reputation for always being there for the community of Worcester. 

Alma Tavern: The main restaurant area

Mr Dean said: "We run lots of events for the community including live music, disco rooms for children and we have four tv screens in different locations in the pub, so people can choose where they want to watch games."

This year, the pub is offering school children food for £1 during the summer holidays if they're accompanied with a paying adult. 

READ MORE: Take a look inside the Arch Rivals - a unique pub under railway tracks

Alma Tavern: The restaurant and bar area

Mr Dean added: "People have been in lockdown for the past two years, they do want to go out and enjoy themselves. 

"We're a family pub and I want people to enjoy themselves and not worry about cost, as a pub we absorb the extra £4 of the kid's meal.

Alma Tavern: Beer Garden

"If we alienate our customers, people won't come to us, and it's disrespectful to them because of how much they have supported us."

It was a tightly run race over the past few weeks for the ten finalists who have been competing to be named number one.

The other nominations included The Arch Rivals Brewing Company, The Bell Inn, The Berkeley Arms, The Chequers at Crowle, The Crown, The Dragon, The Maple Leaf, Lower Wick, The New Chequers and Craft Inn.