A PUB in Wells described as “a bright and welcoming place for a drink or a meal” has been ‘Commended’ for its design.

The Sheep & Penguin in Wells, Somerset has won Commended in the competitive Refurbishment category.

CAMRA has unveiled the winners of its prestigious Pub Design Awards, which recognise the highest standards of architecture in the refurbishment and historic conservation of pubs across the UK, plus the most innovative construction and conversions of new venues.

The awards are judged by a panel of experts in design and conservation, with categories ranging from refurbishment to new build.

The judges described it as “a bright and welcoming place for a drink or a meal”.

The Refurbishment category is awarded to the best renovation of an existing pub building.

This can range from a complete gutting and replacement to enhancing the design of what was originally in the pub.

As with the other awards, the judges are looking for originality and imagination in the way the building is treated.

Having been closed for years and in a near-derelict condition, the pub (previously known as the Mermaid) appeared highly unlikely to ever reopen.

A complete restoration has breathed new life into the pub, transforming it from an eyesore into a building that makes a positive contribution to the city’s streetscape.

The Refurbishment overall winner was the Kings Arms in Elham, Kent.

Chair of the Pub Design Awards judging panel, Andrew Davison, said: “Once again, the Pub Design Awards’ judges have had a hard job in selecting the winners from the entries submitted.

“Despite the pressures the hospitality industry is under, we are pleased to report that people are still prepared to invest time, money, and resources into conserving their buildings and upgrading them to meet the latest challenges.

“Our Pub Design Awards recognise the high standards of flair and imagination which have gone into these projects, and the ambitious craftsmanship involved in the repair and conservation work.

“Despite everything thrown at it, we believe that the pub has a key role to play in our communities and that it will continue to flourish as an institution. The high quality of the entries for these Awards provides evidence to support that belief.”

CAMRA’s awards director Laura Emson added: “It is only right that the blood, sweat, and tears poured into these pubs is celebrated. I would like to raise a glass to all these award-worthy pubs.

“We hope beer-lovers across the country will seek out these breathtaking examples of how beautiful UK pubs can be, if given the appropriate love and care these much-loved establishments truly deserve.”