The Clifden Arms in Worminghall has been named our Winter Pub of the Year. Nominated by a local member, the pub impressed judges with its warm, welcoming atmosphere ideal for the colder months.
Chair, Mike Clarke, presented the award to Kenza Page, general manager of the Clifden Arms.
"Three well-kept real ales and a log fire in each bar to sit by—the perfect location for winter drinking," said our member of his nomination.
The Clifden Arms is a timber-framed building with an older medieval section complemented by a 17th-century wing.
The LocAle-accredited pub offers real ales from local breweries including (in the recent past) Rebellion, XT, Vale, and Chiltern, with Rebellion IPA and Vale VPA available on our visit. These are served in a quintessential English country pub setting complete with low beams and roaring fires.
The Cross Keys in Thame claimed top honours in the branch's inaugural Best Illuminated Pub competition for Christmas 2025. Nominated by Simon Heap, the pub's spectacular moving Christmas tree light display stood out among entries from across the branch area.
Landlord Peter Lambert constructed the virtual Christmas tree himself and personally programmed the light sequence featuring 1,000 LEDs, demonstrating exceptional dedication and technical skill. Peter said he was delighted to accept the award recognising his personal innovation in spreading festive cheer.
The Cross Keys is renowned for its occasional themed decorations, with October's extensive Hallowe’en celebrations providing a talking point for the whole community in late October.
The competition, inspired by festive displays at pubs throughout the region, recognised pubs making sterling efforts to brighten the dark winter nights. Commendations were awarded to the Crown in Chinnor and the Lion of Beaconsfield in Knotty Green, with the Swan at Great Kimble taking third place and the Lion in Waddesdon as runner-up.
Branch organisers noted that while many pubs displayed no Christmas decorations—possibly reflecting challenging economic conditions—those that participated demonstrated exceptional community spirit.
"A still photo doesn't do justice to this wonder," chair, Mike Clarke, said of the Cross Keys' winning display. "It provided many minutes of entertainment and was a great contribution to the jollity of the local community. We look forward to its return next year."
