The Cornwall Pub of the Year 2025 winner has been announced by beer body CAMRA Kernow. The Campaign for Real Ale Kernow has recognised The Hole in the Wall in Bodmin as the county's Pub of the Year 2025 - after stripping it of the same title last year, then making a U-turn.
The organisation says the award recognises excellence in beer quality, atmosphere, service and commitment to real ale and the local community. CAMRA Kernow said that the competition was exceptionally fierce this year, with three other outstanding finalists: The Old Ale House in Truro, Moth and the Moon in Falmouth, and The Star Inn in Vogue, near Redruth.
Each of these establishments showcases the very best of Cornwall’s pub scene, said CAMRA, making the final decision incredibly difficult for the judging panel. Landlord Steve Hall and his team at The Hole in the Wall impressed the judges with their dedication to top-quality real ale, warm hospitality, and historic charm.
The pub, known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, has become a favourite among both locals and visitors.
Paul Waller, Chairman of CAMRA Kernow, commented: “This year’s competition was incredibly close, with all four finalists demonstrating the highest standards of excellence. However, The Hole in the Wall just clinched it with the judges for its outstanding selection of real ales, commitment to the community, and superb customer experience. Huge congratulations to Steve Hall and his team.”
The award will be officially presented at The Hole in the Wall on a date to be confirmed, where members of CAMRA Kernow and local beer enthusiasts will gather to celebrate the achievement.
Last year, The Hole In The Wall also received the accolade before being stripped of the award because it had Nazi memorabilia on display. It subsequently had its award reinstated following a CAMRA Kernow U-turn.
The quaint pub is filled wall to wall with curiosities, including a stuffed lion, ancient guns and a picture of Winston Churchill, among many other items. However landlord Steve Hall came under fire after a single complaint was made about "a swastika armband" on display in his pub - a memento dating back to the Second World War brought back by a British soldier to his regimental town and given to the pub to add to its collection of curios.
Recognised rival The Star Inn at Vogue previously hit the headlines all around the world after CornwallLive told how Vogue magazine threatened to sue it over use of the name. The international mag relented and subsequently admitted it hadn't done its homework before making the threat.
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