The recent developments around Whitbread, Premier Inns and adjacent branded pubs, have highlighted the importance of the Government incorporating a pub definition into planning law. As matters stand, there are zones of confusion both between pubs and restaurants and pubs and hotels. After much research and consultation, CAMRA have revised it's definition of pubs and clubs.

In summary, the CAMRA definition of a Pub is that the licensed premises must: (1) be open to and welcome the general public without requiring membership or residency and without charging for admission* (2) allow drinking on the premises without requiring food to be consumed. *Except when entertainment is provided on limited occasions when an entry charge may apply. You will note that definition no longer requires at least one draught beer, due to changes in way many pubs and pubs now function.

If you have a spare 10 minutes, full definition is see CAMRA Definition of Pubs & Clubs 2024 which is within Members area of our national website.