Oldham pub wins CAMRA recognition AGAIN

A beloved Oldham pub has once again cemented its place among the best, taking home the coveted title of Rochdale, Oldham, and Bury CAMRA Pub of the Year for a fourth consecutive year.

The Fox & Pine, a cosy and welcoming spot in Oldham town centre, has become a firm favourite for real ale enthusiasts, and its latest accolade in 2025 only further solidifies its growing legacy.

Owners Chris and Michelle Riley shared their excitement and gratitude upon receiving the news, describing themselves as “completely humbled” by the recognition.

Taking to social media, they thanked their dedicated staff and loyal customers, whose support has helped shape the pub into the award-winning establishment it is today.

Fox & Pine, Oldham

The Fox & Pine first opened its doors in 2020, just days before the COVID-19 lockdown forced pubs across the country to close. What could have been a devastating setback instead became an opportunity for Chris and Michelle to build something truly special. Drawing from their extensive experience in the industry—including years managing the Regal Moon in Rochdale—the couple poured their passion into crafting a unique space that blends the warmth of a village pub with the vibrancy of a town setting.

Reflecting on their journey, Chris shared in a past interview with I Love MCR: “Basically, what we try to sell is anything you can’t find in your average Wetherspoons. We’re a village pub in a town if that makes sense. You get the cosiness and community feel of a village but in Oldham.”

That sense of community has been key to the pub’s success.

The Fox & Pine is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a hub for locals, a meeting point for friends, and a second home for many. The pub’s large upstairs space, complete with a fireplace, has become a go-to spot for various social groups, making it a true gathering place.

A Love Letter to real ale

One of the biggest draws of The Fox & Pine is its commitment to real ale.

With ten rotating cask ales on tap, each carefully selected and properly pulled, the pub offers a drinking experience that beer lovers won’t find at home or in supermarkets.

“We’re very into cask beer here, the good stuff,” Chris said. “People like the ‘real beer’ experience, properly pulled from a cask and looked after properly. You can’t get that at home, from a supermarket.”

This dedication to quality has helped the pub secure its place in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide year after year, and now, as the reigning champion of the Rochdale, Oldham, and Bury CAMRA Pub of the Year award for 2025, The Fox & Pine is set to compete for the Greater Manchester Pub of the Year title once again.

What’s next for the Fox & Pine

Despite the awards and recognition, Chris and Michelle insist that they never set out to win trophies. Their goal has always been simple: to create a welcoming space where people can enjoy great beer and great company. “We’ve got a great hidden gem here,” Chris said. “It’s a nice community, and everyone who comes in is great. We all get on like a house on fire, with loads of events and just offering a space where people can come down, relax, and have a great time.”

With yet another CAMRA award under their belt and a reputation that continues to grow, The Fox & Pine can stake a claim to be one of the best boozers in Greater Manchester.

As the judging for the Greater Manchester Pub of the Year approaches, all eyes are on this little gem to see if it can take home yet another well-deserved win.

Until then, one thing is for certain: Chris, Michelle, and their loyal patrons have plenty of reasons to raise a glass in celebration.