CAMRA campaigns for real ale, real pubs and consumer rights. They are an independent, voluntary organisation with over 85,000 members and have been described as the most successful consumer group in Europe. CAMRA promotes good-quality real ale and pubs, as well as acting as the consumer's champion in relation to the UK and European beer and drinks industry. They aim to:
More information can be found on their website - www.camra.org.uk.
Real ale is a type of beer defined by its traditional production. Also known as "cask conditioned" beer; the fundamental distinction between real and other ales is that the yeast is still present in the container from which the beer is served, although it will have settled to the bottom and is not poured into the glass.
Because the yeast is still alive, the process of fermentation continues in the cask or bottle on the way to the consumer ensuring a fresh and natural taste.
Sheffield has its own local branch of CAMRA. Sheffield CAMRA hold regular meeting and social events and award "Pub Of The Month" and "Pub Of The Year" titles to pubs with an outstanding commitment to real ale.
Sheffield CAMRA also organise the annual "Steel City Beer & Cider Festival" at which approximately 70 real ales and upwards of 20 ciders & perries are available.
More information can be found at sheffield.camra.org.uk.
More information about real ale and real cider can be found on the following pages: