A BELOVED community-focused pub in Fife has been named the best in the whole of Scotland.

The Hillend Tavern, in Dalgety Bay in Fife, won the regional category for Scotland and is now one of 17 finalists across the UK competing for the sought-after CAMRA Pub of the Year title.

Introducing the upcoming award, Andrea Briers, the national coordinator for the Pub of the Year competition, said: “These amazing pubs really are the crème de la crème and I would encourage the public to seek out the 17 winners from across the nations and regions of the UK – they are top-tier pubs serving excellent beer, cider and perry, run by welcoming, hardworking staff.  

“It’s also important to support your local all year round. With constant pressure from stubbornly high energy prices, fluctuating running costs and grossly unfair business rates threatening to drown pubs across the UK, it’s vital to get out and support the licensed trade.”

Fife pub named the best in Scotland by CAMRA

Discussing The Hillend Tavern, CAMRA said: "This community-focused village pub near Dalgety Bay, Fife previously won the Regional Scotland and Northern Ireland Pub of the Year award in 2023.

"Locally known as 'the Tav', the pub has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere with cosy coal fires.

"The traditional bar serves four changing cask beers, and a spacious area at the rear is used to host village events.

"The Hillend Tavern proudly supports and sponsors local sports teams, including cricket, football and squash."

The Hillend Tavern is said to be community-focussedThe Hillend Tavern is said to be community-focussed (Image: Getty)

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The pub is also well-loved on Tripadvisor with patrons giving it a 4.5/5.

One visitor said: "Fantastic pub situated 5 mins walk from Dalgety Bay train station. They have a fantastic beer garden out the back and staff are very friendly. They also have two lovely dogs that are always friendly and come for a nosey.

"We go here every Wednesday after football and during summer have had a few visits on the odd weekday/weekend and enjoyed a refreshing few drinks in the beer garden. This pub really is a hidden gem!"

Judges will narrow the 17 regional and national finalists down to just four this September ahead of the Pub of the Year Award. The overall winner will be announced in January 2025.