The Water Witch, one of Lancaster’s premier drinking and eating places, has gained another gong to add to a growing list of awards. The popular canal-side pub has been voted Pub of the Season by members of the local branch of The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) just a few months after winning the prestigious title of North West Regional Champion in the Great British Pub awards.
Presenting the certificate, CAMRA branch chair Anne Stewardson paid tribute to the work of Water Witch manager Jane Barnes in redefining this prominent real ale venue’s identity. “She and her team have excelled themselves as promotors of fine cask-conditioned ales, not just on a day-to-day basis but with the regular themed beer festivals that are a feature of the new image.”
Speaking afterwards, Jane Barnes said she was “overjoyed” to win the award. “Everyone on the staff has worked hard to ensure that drinkers can enjoy an exceptional range of well-kept real ales in welcoming and comfortable surroundings.” She also thanked customers and CAMRA members for their consistent support since she had taken on the pub 16 months before.
The next beer festival at The Water Witch takes place during National Cask Ale Week (29 March to 5 April).