The Bailey Head was a failing venue under a major pub company but has been revitalized into a thriving community hub by owners Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad.
A miraculous transformation brought a failing pub back from the brink, crowning it the UK’s Pub of the Year. The Bailey Head in Oswestry, Shropshire, once teetering on failure under a major pub company, has been rejuvenated into a beloved community hotspot by Duncan Borrowman and Grace Goodlad.
The stunning revolution has not gone unnoticed — the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) handed them the prestigious national accolade, highlighting the pub’s incredible journey from dire straits to stardom.
It all started nine years ago when the couple stepped in to save the day. The pub, protected from redevelopment after CAMRA listed it as an Asset of Community Value (ACV), turned its fortunes around, thanks to the devotion of Borrowman and Goodlad.
They’re now not strangers to praise – recognition has poured in from CAMRA, the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), The Shropshire GOAT, even TripAdvisor.
Innkeeper Borrowman celebrates their “incredible team of welcoming and knowledgeable staff” and the staunch support of regulars that keep the atmosphere buzzing. Fun-filled with charity events and live music, the Bailey Head is the definition of community spirit.
Bubbling with enthusiasm, Borrowman declared, “We thrive on being the heart of the community—a place where people gather to celebrate or commiserate”. “Everyone is welcome here, whether they’re enjoying a drink alone or chatting with others”.
Landlady Grace Goodlad was brimming with joy over their accomplishment, stating: “We are thrilled and hope we can live up to the award. When we bought the pub nine years ago, it was failing. We’ve taken things one step at a time—through COVID and beyond—turning it into what it is today.”
The Bailey Head, a pub in Oswestry, Shropshire, is renowned for its impressive selection of cask beers and ciders. It has 12 handpulls serving six cask beers and six ciders and perries, along with 16 other draught lines. Following their recent accolade, David Ricketts, Chairman of Shrewsbury and West Shropshire CAMRA, lauded the couple’s commitment: “The Bailey Head’s story proves that any pub can become the best in the UK with determination and effort. This win is a testament to their vision and resilience.”
Laura Emson, CAMRA Awards Director, also praised the couple, stating: “In a time when running a pub is particularly challenging, Duncan and Grace’s commitment and enthusiasm are an inspiration. This award is well-deserved, and I hope it draws more visitors to their doorstep.” She concluded by encouraging support for local pubs: “January can be an especially tough time for our locals, so please get out and visit them and provide the support that is so desperately needed for pubs across the UK”.
