News
- Call for Volunteers – Fife Beer Festival Working Group
Monday 4 August 2025
Call for Volunteers – Fife Beer Festival Working Group
We’re inviting interested members to join a working group to formulate and develop a plan for a Fife Beer Festival, with the goal of presenting a proposal to the branch for agreement in three months’ time.
Whether you have experience with events, a love for real ale, or fresh ideas to bring to the table, we’d love to hear from you. This is a great opportunity to help shape a new festival for Fife and support our local beer scene.
To get involved, email Branch Chairman
Let’s make something great happen – together!
- Help CAMRA in next stage of Carlsberg’s ‘Fresh Ale’ investigation
Monday 4 August 2025
CAMRA’s bid to educate and protect beer lovers from Carlsberg’s ‘imitation’ cask beer continues, and we need your help to investigate how ‘Fresh Ale’ is being presented at the bar.
‘Fresh Ale’ was launched by Carlsberg in March 2024, serving kegged versions of Wainwright Amber, Wainwright Gold and Hobgoblin IPA through the traditional cask handpull.
‘Fresh Ale’ has been promoted as a cask product with an extended shelf life of 14 days. Carlsberg claims that ‘Fresh Ale’ is “preserving the beloved hand pull ritual” but it is taking up space for genuine cask beer on bars and misleading pubgoers into believing they are drinking a cask product when they are not.
CAMRA’s Handpump Hijack campaign quickly followed with the intent of protecting consumers who are being misled by ‘Fresh Ale’ on the bar.
We are clear that only cask beers, and their real cider equivalents, should be served through handpulls at the bar – and that Carlsberg should stop pubs serving their kegged ‘Fresh Ale’ products from traditional handpulls that are intrinsically linked with cask.
Carlsberg claims they have taken steps to ensure pubgoers understand ‘Fresh Ale’ isn’t a cask product by using the term ‘Brewery Conditioned Ale’ on each pump clip, along with a QR code explainer of the term, and instruction guides for publicans serving ‘Fresh ale.’
But it is not always clear whether you are ordering a genuine cask version of these beers – or if you are getting the kegged ‘Fresh Ale’ version.
Now we are asking drinkers to help us build up a body of evidence about ‘Fresh Ale’ that we can use to challenge Trading Standards departments and the Government about the misleading practice of serving kegged beers through cask handpulls at the bar.
We’re asking Kingdom of Fife members to please fill out CAMRA’s quick sighting form along with an image of the pump clip whenever ‘Fresh Ale’ is spotted in Fife pubs.
For Carlsberg’s ‘Fresh Ale’ versions of Wainwright Gold, Wainwright Amber and Hobgoblin IPA, you can use this sighting form: smartsurvey.co.uk/s/8MH341
There’s also a form for sightings of Otter brewery’s ‘Fresh Ale’: smartsurvey.co.uk/s/XLQ6G6
Members can contact ku.gro.armac@sngiapmac with questions on Carlsberg’s ‘Fresh Ale’ and CAMRA’s Handpump Hijack campaign.
- Last Orders: Harbour Bar Paused Operations Amid Brewing Plans
Monday 4 August 2025
Kirkcaldy’s Harbour Bar has closed its doors for the foreseeable future as owner Jon Stanley focuses on developing the long-awaited microbrewery. Three years after taking over this historic 1924 pub, Jon admits balancing a working brewpub with running a community pub has been an “impossible challenge,” especially given recent pressures on the night-time economy.
While the pub will remain licensed for events and live music, it won’t reopen fully for 18–24 months as the brewery takes priority. Jon acknowledges this pause is necessary to secure the future of both ventures, despite the disappointment it may cause.
Fife CAMRA wishes Jon and the Harbour Bar team all the best and looks forward to the day the pub and brewery reopen, bringing fresh life back to this beloved Kirkcaldy venue.
- Scottish Pub of the Year Final 4 Judging Results
Monday 4 August 2025
The results of this year’s Scottish Pub of the Year (SPOTY) “Final 4” judging are now in. After a close and competitive evaluation, the Volunteer Arms (Staggs) in Musselburgh emerged as the winner with a total score of 398 points, securing first place.
Coming in second was the Bandstand in Nairn, representing the Highlands & Western Isles, with a strong total of 354 points. The Farmer’s Arms in Thornhill, from Dumfries & Stewartry, took third place with 349.5 points, while the Four Marys in Linlithgow, Forth Valley, finished fourth with 340 points.
Each pub was scored out of a possible 480 points, reflecting a comprehensive assessment of quality, atmosphere, and community spirit.
The Volunteer Arms will now progress to the “Super Region” round of the UK competition, moving one step closer to national recognition.
All finalists will be informed of the results, and a presentation ceremony will be arranged in due course to celebrate their achievements.
- Limekilns Social Trip
Tuesday 15 July 2025
On Thursday 3rd July we took a Social trip to Limekilns to visit the two real ale pubs which some of us had never been to before. Some of the party met at the Commercial in Dunfirmline for pre bus drink with the highlight being a beer from Brew Toon brewery in Peterhead.
Whilst most of is did the number 6 bus one member walked along the coast from Inverkeithing and one cycled to Limekilns. As usual Holly and Ted were part of the bus party.
First up was the Bruce Arms with two beers on including Loch Leven Shining Knight. We had a nice big round table and a good chat about all things beer and otherwise.
After a couple of pints we took the short walk to the Ship Inn which had Greene King Amplified on the one handpump in good condition. Both pubs were replenished with CAMRA publicity and we then bid farewell catching the bus from the handy stop outside the pub.
A good afternoon out to a couple of less visited real ale pubs in Fife
- Celebrating Beer Day Britain at the Hillend Tavern!
Sunday 15 June 2025
15th June was Beer Day Britain — the perfect excuse to raise a glass and celebrate real ale. And where better to do it than at the Hillend Tavern, as we presented them with their well-earned award as Fife CAMRA Pub of the Year – Runner Up.
A great crowd turned out to mark the occasion and show support for this fantastic local pub. We were warmly welcomed by the Hillend team and enjoyed a lovely afternoon of good beer and great company — and even had the pleasure of meeting Indy, one of our members’ friendly and photogenic dogs!
It’s always encouraging to see community pubs like the Hillend Tavern thriving and being recognised for their dedication to quality real ale and warm hospitality. Huge congratulations to the whole team — we’ll definitely be back for another pint soon!
Cheers to Beer Day Britain, and cheers to pubs that get it right.
- Flash Mob! Fife CAMRA Visits Fife’s Newest Brewery
Friday 6 June 2025
We love supporting local – and when we heard that Fife’s newest brewery had just received its HMRC approval today, we couldn’t resist dropping by for an impromptu visit!
Although their own brews aren’t quite ready yet (as all good things take time), we were warmly welcomed and treated to a refreshing alcohol-free hop water alongside a great line-up of local keg beers. The team’s passion for beer was clear, and the space itself is fantastic — bright, open, and absolutely brimming with potential.
It’s always exciting to see new ventures like this taking shape in Fife, and we’re thrilled to be among the first through the door. This place is definitely one to watch — and we’ll certainly be back once the fermenters are full and the taps are flowing with their own creations.
Cheers to new beginnings and supporting local!
- Branch Socials – Plans and Ideas
Wednesday 28 May 2025
We’ve got a new Social Secretary, Dave, and he’s already bringing some great ideas for the year ahead! Here are a few of the ideas for socials – we’d love to hear what you think, and if you have any suggestions of your own.
Please email us your thoughts at Branch Chairman
Here are a few ideas...
Railway Inn, Lower Largo - Planning to tie this in with their September beer festival.
Commercial, Dunfermline – Cider Award Presentation. Ideally timed around when our cider drinkers are free – let us know availability.
Burns Tavern, Leslie – Possibly a Friday afternoon. We might walk it again from Markinch along the old railway line – anyone else fancy that?
Fife Spoons Triple - Yes, it’s not the most dog-friendly idea – but could be a fun comparison trip. Visiting the three Wetherspoons in Dunfermline, Glenrothes, and Kirkcaldy. Thinking of starting in Dunfermline.
Joint Social with Edinburgh Branch - A themed crawl visiting pubs that still use traditional tall fonts – could be a nice collaboration.
Brewery Trip - Interested? Let us know if a brewery visit appeals – and any suggestions on where we should go.
Weekday Bus-Based Pub Explorations. These would be more informal socials, aimed at exploring less-visited pubs:
- 95 Bus Route – East Neuk, Limekilns and possibly Culross, Ceres and Strathkinness
= Coastal Day (Bus/Train): Hillend → Aberdour → Burntisland → Kinghorn. Any preferences on which days of the week work best for you?
- CAMRA Fife AGM – A Great Year in Review!
Saturday 17 May 2025
We had a fantastic time at the Fife CAMRA AGM this weekend, coming together to reflect on everything our branch has achieved over the past year. Thanks to everyone who joined us – your support keeps our campaigning strong and our community thriving.
Awards and Celebrations The AGM was full of highlights and well-deserved recognition:
Beer Scorer of the Year went to the dedicated Richard – thank you for your commitment to recording pint after pint and helping shape our local beer scene.
A big thank you to the St Andrews Beer Society. It’s been a real pleasure working with such an enthusiastic and passionate group of young beer lovers.
A special milestone was marked for our four-legged friends, Ted and Holly, who received their 50th Pub Crawl Award. That’s an impressive number of pubs – and no doubt a lot of attention along the way.
Looking Ahead We also elected our new committee, who are ready to lead us through another year of promoting real ale, cider, and the pubs that bring people together. Thank you to everyone who stood for a role or supported the process.
Fife Pub of the Year We were proud to present our Fife Pub of the Year award to Betty Nicols – a well-loved pub known for its quality beer and warm welcome. A very well-deserved recognition.
Thank you once again to all our members and supporters. Here's to another successful year of great beer, good company, and proper pubs across Fife.
- Dundee Social
Sunday 27 April 2025
A small group of Fife CAMRA members, along with two dogs, made a social visit to Dundee, congregating at the Phoenix Bar after arriving by train and bus from the other side of the Tay.
Two local beers from Law Brewing were sampled, including the hometown Dundee Cake beer (not to everyone’s taste). Some very spicy Ganga chips and chilli dip helped the beer go down.
The next stop was the (non-GBG) Star and Garter, which produced the best beer of the trip, with two unusual but very well-kept beers: Ultra Black from BrewToon in Peterhead and Pump up the Jam from the Welsh Tiny Rebel brewery. Various pies were on sale, including a chicken tikka pie tried by one member, much to the adoration of the watching pair of dogs.
Across the street, the next visit was to the Bank Bar. Four beers were available, covering various styles, most of which went down well, although the 90 Shilling had a strange taste—possibly due to a brewery infection rather than any fault of the pub.
Next up, before some of the party had to “gun it” and leave, was Pillars. Two beers were on: one from the Greene King stable and one from BrewToon.
Finally, those who remained deviated from cask ale and visited two Fife brewery bars now in Dundee: Futtle and St Andrews.
It was then time for trains home.
- Branch AGM
Thursday 24 April 2025
Betty Nicols
Saturday 17 May 2025 13:00
A key date for your diary! The Kingdom of Fife CAMRA AGM is your opportunity to shape the future of the branch and have your voice heard. This is your chance to get involved, share ideas, and help guide the direction of our campaigning efforts over the next year.
The AGM is where we’ll review the past year’s activities, discuss future plans, and elect the branch committee for the year ahead. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to CAMRA, your input is valuable, and we’d love to see as many members as possible attending.
If you’re interested in getting more involved, there are plenty of ways to contribute—whether by standing for a committee role, volunteering at events, or simply sharing your thoughts on how we can support pubs, breweries, and real ale in Fife.
To prepare for the meeting, please find the minutes from our last meeting and the agenda for this meeting via the links below:
Join us for an afternoon of discussion, decision-making, and, of course, a few pints in good company! The AGM will start at 1pm and will be followed by the POTY presentation to the pub.
- Kingdom of Fife CAMRA Cider Pub of the Year 2025!
Wednesday 19 February 2025
Situated in the heart of the town centre, close to the main retail area, this historic 19th-century listed building is full of charm and character. Formerly a hotel, it retains stunning high ceilings and decorative wooden cornices, reflecting its rich heritage. A spiral staircase leads down to the lower levels, adding to its unique atmosphere.
Popular with an eclectic mix of customers, the pub is a lively hub that gets particularly busy on match days. It takes great pride in the quality of its home-cooked food, ensuring a warm welcome alongside its impressive cider selection.
No stranger to recognition, the pub previously won other awards over the years. Now, it has earned the title of Cider Pub of the Year 2025, celebrating its dedication to serving quality cider in a welcoming and historic setting.
- Kingdom of Fife CAMRA Pub of the Year 2025!
Wednesday 19 February 2025
Located in Kirkcaldy’s historic Merchants’ Quarter, this charming High Street pub blends tradition with a welcoming atmosphere. Its cozy interior, complete with vintage patterned tiles and comfortable seating, creates the perfect setting for locals and visitors alike.
Betty Nicol’s takes pride in offering three well-kept real ales, often sourced from Fyne Ales, alongside a bistro menu featuring delicious pub fare. A carefully curated selection of bottled beers, wines, and spirits ensures there’s something for everyone.
More than just a pub, Betty Nicol’s has become a hub of community life, hosting regular quiz nights and events that bring people together. As Andy, who took over the pub in 2023, puts it: "We’ve not just taken on the pub—we’ve built a community."
Affectionately known as The TAV, this community-focused village pub near Dalgety Bay has long been a favourite among real ale lovers. With cosy log fires, a welcoming beer garden, and a rotating selection of well-kept real ales, it offers the perfect setting for a relaxed pint in friendly surroundings.
The pub features a traditional bar and a spacious area at the rear, making it ideal for groups and functions. It’s also a hit with four-legged friends, thanks to its dedicated Dog Bar, offering complimentary water and treats for well-managed canines.
Regular live music nights and twice-monthly quiz nights add to the lively atmosphere, ensuring there’s always something happening at The TAV. Its reputation for quality and hospitality has earned it multiple accolades, including Regional Pub of the Year 2023 and Local Pub of the Year 2024.
- Fife CAMRA and St Andrews University Beer Society: Building Bridges Over Pints
Tuesday 11 February 2025
Fife CAMRA recently teamed up with the St Andrews University Beer Society for a fantastic afternoon of conversation, connections, and, of course, great beer. The event brought together students and CAMRA members, highlighting shared interests that went beyond brewing and beer appreciation.
Many students discovered they had a lot in common with CAMRA members, whether it was a love of dogs, an interest in history, or simply a passion for good pubs. One student, who is studying railway station architecture, found himself deep in discussion with members about historic stations and their links to the pub trade. Another, an economics student, explored the fascinating world of beer economics, gaining insight into how the industry shapes and is shaped by financial trends.
Beyond the beer talk, the gathering served as a reminder of the role pubs play in fostering intergenerational connections. For students, spending time with older pubgoers was a refreshing change, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions and social fabric of their adopted home. It reinforced the idea that pubs are more than just places to drink, they are community hubs that bring people together.
This collaboration was a great success, strengthening ties between CAMRA and the next generation of beer enthusiasts. With shared interests and a welcoming atmosphere, it's clear that beer has a unique way of bridging generations and building friendships.
- Champion Beer of Scotland 2024 – Results and Presentation
Thursday 10 October 2024
The results of CAMRA's Champion Beer of Scotland 2024 competition, decided by blind judging at the Ayrshire Real Ale Festival in Troon on Friday 4th October, are in!
Gold: Cairngorm Black Gold Silver: Five Kingdoms Dark Storm Bronze: Cromarty Red Rocker
Other shortlisted beers included Broughton Old Jock, Cromarty Brewed Awakening, Cromarty Raptor IPA, Five Kingdoms McGregor's Mild, Kelburn Red Smiddy, Loch Lomond Southern Summit, Swannay Orkney IPA, and Stewart 80/-.
A big congratulations to Cairngorm Brewery for their fantastic win!
The official award presentation will take place at the brewery on Friday 22nd November at approximately 1:30 pm.
Cheers to Cairngorm and all the finalists for an excellent competition!
- Special Awards
Thursday 10 October 2024
Over the summer, the branch presented three special awards to publicans who have made an outstanding contribution to real ale in Fife.
The first award recognised the outstanding efforts of Andy McGonigal and Hannah Murphy in preserving Betty Nicols, expanding the beer range, and serving up some seriously great brews!
The second award honoured the exceptional contributions of Robbie Hunter, who tirelessly served outstanding beers at The Albert Tavern and championed real ales over the years! While it's bittersweet that Robbie wasn't able to receive the award in person before his passing, he knew of the accolade.
The final special award recognised Willie Cunningham for his remarkable dedication to real ale. His passion for quality, craftsmanship, and supporting local breweries has built a community around tradition and a great pint. Congratulations to Willie and The Crown Tavern Kinghorn on this well-deserved recognition!
Here’s to many more years of fantastic real ale and community spirit.
- 50th Anniversary of CAMRA in Scotland
Tuesday 3 September 2024
Several special events have been organised to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of CAMRA in Scotland and we’ve love to see you at some, or all, of them.
The first special event is to celebrate the three oldest active breweries in Scotland, namely Belhaven, Broughton and Traquair House. This event will take place on Saturday 7th September, in the Athletic Arms (Diggers), 1-3 Angle Park Terrace, Edinburgh EH11 2JX from 1pm. There are normally 6 real ale ales available and we hope to have beer available from all three breweries. https://whatpub.com/pubs/EDN/638/athletic-arms-diggers-edinburgh
On Saturday 12th October from 1pm, we will be celebrating the formation of the first Scottish CAMRA branch fifty years ago, in the Bon Accord, 153 North Street, Charing Cross, Glasgow G3 7DA. The Bon Accord was one of the original pubs at the forefront of real ale in Glasgow and the founding nearby of the first branch in Scotland. It remains an important part of Scotland’s real ale history. There will be a small finger buffet and some celebration cake available. There are normally 8 real ales available. It would be great to see some long-standing original CAMRA members from across the country at this event. https://whatpub.com/pubs/GLA/0114/bon-accord-glasgow
The presentation of this year’s Scottish Pub of the Year Award to the Hillend Tavern will take place on Friday 13th September at 4pm. Note that the pub opens at 3pm on a Friday afternoon. There’s a train that leaves Haymarket at 1508, arriving at Dalgety Bay at 1530. If coming from the Kirkcaldy side there’s a train leaving Perth at 1427, Kirkcaldy 1510 and arriving in Dalgety Bay at 1529. There’s a bus stop beside the station with varous buses serving it including the Stagecoach 7 or 87. For anyone who’s never been to the Hillend Tavern, come out of the station, turn to your right and walk for about 5 minutes (be careful with traffic on the bad bend) and the pub sits on your right at 37 Main Street, Hillend. There should be 4 real ales available. Francesca and her team will give you a warm welcome. https://whatpub.com/pubs/FIF/50/hillend-tavern-hillend
Other forthcoming Scottish CAMRA events to note in your diaries are:
27-29 Sept: Forth Valley CAMRA - Dark Ale Trail by Rail. Visit a selection of pubs between Dunblane, Larbert and Linlithgow for a weekend of dark ales. More info at: https://forthvalley.camra.org.uk/viewnode.php?id=226089
3-5 October: Ayrshire Real Ale Festival, Troon Concert Hall. Organised by Ayrshire & Wigtownshire CAMRA, Scotland’s largest real ale festival features over 140 cask ales and 20 real ciders and perries. Only 10 mins walk from Troon station. https://www.ayrshirebeerfestival.co.uk/
8-9 November: Forth Valley CAMRA - Alloa Real Ale and Cider Festival, Alloa Town Hall. Featuring over 50 real ales and 20 ciders. https://forthvalley.camra.org.uk/viewnode.php?id=223590