Beer scoring

From 1 June 2026, we’re using a new set of ratings, rather than a numerical scale of scores, for our beer scoring system.  

We’ve done this after listening carefully to feedback, to help make scoring easier and encourage more people to do it.  

Some people simply don’t remember the definitions that correspond to the numbers or still struggle to pick a numerical score under the old system. 

We’ve also removed the ‘half score’ options to make the scoring scale simpler and added a new set of ‘reactions’ to help people choose the best rating for the beer they’re drinking.  

This is already possible, by using the ‘Can’t find? Enter manually’ option, and we aren’t making any changes to how that works right now.

Ideally, a score should reflect the beer’s condition, which means how well it has been kept. However, it can be hard to tell whether a beer is in poor condition, badly made, or simply a style that doesn’t suit your taste. 

If you’re unsure, score the beer based on how it honestly tastes to you. Even if you don’t enjoy something like a carrot and coriander beer, other people might and may score it higher. 

Remind yourself of the descriptions and think about how you would describe the condition of your beer to a friend.  

Once you’ve scored a few different beers, comparing the ratings you have given to different beers will help you apply beer scores in a consistent way.  

The more beer scores you submit, the more you’ll become familiar with the ratings and how to apply them. Don’t forget, you can also edit your beer scores.

To edit your scores, go to camra.org.uk/profile/beer-scores

Once beer ratings have been submitted online, CAMRA branches analyse them to help in their Good Beer Guide selection process. 

For more information, please visit the Pub Data and GBG resources page (CAMRA login required).

Branches should be using beer scores as a significant factor in their Good Beer Guide selection process.

In 2025, Conference passed a motion to confirm that branches must give beer scores significant weight as part of their Good Beer Guide selection process.

To help with this BSAG have produced an example process that you can use. You can find that, and more support with analysing scores here.

We have a support page for volunteers who want to promote beer scoring, and for using beer scores as part of the Good Beer Guide selection process. That includes the National Beer Scoring System Analysis Spreadsheet and guides for using it. 

This includes ordering printed publicity materials and printable downloads for recording your scores to submit at a later point.