Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is an organization based in the United Kingdom that actively pursues the promotion and preservation of traditional British beer styles, particularly real ale. Founded in 1971, it works towards protecting and enhancing the quality, choice, and accessibility of real ale by engaging with consumers, breweries, pubs, and the government.
CAMRA is driven by the belief that real ale, which is brewed from traditional ingredients and undergoes secondary fermentation in the container from which it is served, provides a more flavorful, fulfilling, and complex drinking experience compared to mass-produced, artificially carbonated beers. Its key objectives include promoting real ale to a wider audience, encouraging the development of independent and sustainable breweries, supporting and preserving traditional pubs, and advocating for consumer rights.
The organization hosts various events, including beer festivals, competitions, and pub crawls, with the aim of raising awareness about real ale and celebrating British beer culture. CAMRA also publishes a quarterly magazine, aptly named "Beer," which updates members and the wider community about real ale news, brewery developments, and forthcoming events.
Through its lobbying efforts, CAMRA has succeeded in influencing government policy, such as the introduction of the "Beer Orders," which ensured that tenants of large pub companies had the freedom to serve real ale from any brewer. The organization continues to campaign for fairer tax rates, improved legislation, and better access to diverse beer options for consumers.
Overall, the Campaign for Real Ale represents a community of beer enthusiasts and advocates who strive to preserve and promote the heritage, quality, and diversity of British real ale within the ever-evolving beer industry.
