A PUB in Poole is a step closer to picking up a prestigious award.

The Barking Cat Alehouse has been named in the top 16 for the National Pub of the Year competition by Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

It follows a year of rigorous judging, with pubs across the UK scored on their atmosphere, decor, welcome, service, inclusivity, overall impression, and the quality of live beer, real cider and perry.

Found in Ashley Road, The Barking Cat is a vibrant two-roomed alehouse serving an interesting choice of beers, mainly from small breweries around the UK.

There are eight real ales and six traditional ciders or perries on handpump alongside ten craft keg beers.

As one of the top 16, it will now go head-to-head for the National Pub of the Year 2023 crown – the highest accolade afforded to British pubs.

The final four will be announced in October, before the overall winner is announced in early 2024.

Andrea Briers, national coordinator for the CAMRA Pub of the Year competition, said: “I am delighted to announce this year’s final 16 pubs.

"I would like to congratulate each and every one of them for their hard work against a difficult backdrop for the trade with increasing energy costs, business rates and the cost-of-living crisis impacting on people visiting pubs.

“It is testament to the winners that they are facing these challenges head on and they are a shining example to what can be done. I would also like to thank their loyal customers who continue to support them in these difficult times.

“There are thousands of amazing pubs across the country and I would encourage everyone to visit their local and seek out others where they live. Not only will that support local businesses, but pubs play a vital part in communities which we want to both protect, promote and see them thrive.”