West Midlands’ picture-perfect pub named one of UK’s most attractive
Birmingham pub celebrates grand designs in national CAMRA competition
The Woodman in Digbeth, Birmingham has won the Historic England Conservation category in CAMRA’s prestigious Pub Design Awards for the careful preservation of heritage architectural features whilst updating facilities – securing it for future generations to enjoy.
Dating back to 1897 and falling into disrepair, owners Union Inns set out to restore and protect The Woodman’s heritage features and multi-roomed layout. A new wooden floor has been laid, the historic Minton tiling walls (which culminate in the wonderful tiled rear Smoke Room) have been carefully cleaned and conserved, and the beautiful, ornate woodwork has been restored. Standing next to the Old Curzon Street Station, set to be reopened as part of HS2, the pub will be an impressive first port of call for passengers.
Andrew Davison, Chair of the Pub Design Awards judging panel, said:
“Despite the increasing pressure on the hospitality industry, people are still prepared to invest time, money, and energy into pubs and bars. The Pub Design Awards recognise the extraordinary amount of effort, the imagination and design, plus high-quality craftsmanship which have gone into all of these projects. In these troubled times, the pub still has a key role to play in our communities, and those who are working to conserve, repair and renovate them should rightfully be applauded.”
Shelly Bentley, Awards Committee Chair, added:
“From striking Art Deco wonders to inviting streetcorner locals, there are some beautiful pubs across the UK. Next time you are enjoying a pint, take a second to marvel at the skill involved in making these stunning spaces. In these difficult times for the industry, it is always heartening to see just how much people care about pubs. From volunteering to help renovate your local, to architects undergoing full-on conservation projects, it all means future generations can enjoy them too.”
Claudia Kenyatta and Emma Squire, co-CEOs of Historic England, said:
“Pubs continue to be cherished historic spaces for people across the country. Each pub is distinct, telling the story of the community they stand within and continue to serve. This year’s Historic England Conservation Award winner, the Woodman in Birmingham, is an outstanding example of how thoughtful conservation can allow historic buildings to live on, securing them for future generations to enjoy. We are proud to partner with CAMRA to celebrate the skill, dedication and passion of everyone involved in preserving these special places.”