Explore the charm and diversity of Britain's craft breweries, where traditional techniques meet innovative brewing, offering an unforgettable experience for every ale aficionado.
The Interior of Bowland Brewery.
Britain's craft beer scene is a vibrant stream of flavours, creativity, and community spirit. Stepping beyond the classic pub experience reveals a rich world of artisanal ales, where each brewery tells its own unique story through its brews. From quaint countryside establishments to cutting-edge urban taprooms, the UK's craft breweries are not just about beer; they're about passion, history, and a dedication to the art of brewing.
Three Tuns Brewery, Shropshire: A Historical Gem
Pub Description:
Three Tuns Brewery in Shropshire is a captivating blend of history and modern brewing excellence. As you step into this Grade II listed building, you're transported back to 1642. The pub maintains much of its 17th-century charm, with wooden beams and stone walls adding to the historical ambiance. The Victorian tower, a focal point of the brewery, stands as a proud reminder of the brewery's long-standing heritage.
Beer Highlight - Victorian Tower Ale:
This ale is a tribute to the brewery's rich history. It has a deep amber hue and a complex flavour profile. The initial taste reveals hints of caramel and toffee, followed by a subtle, earthy bitterness, a nod to traditional English ales. The finish is smooth and satisfying, making it a perfect representation of the brewery's legacy.
Hackney Church Brew Co., East London: Urban Chic
Pub Description:
Hackney Church Brew Co. is a trendy, urban space that blends modernity with a touch of industrial chic. The vaulted ceilings and minimalist decor give the pub an airy, open feel. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by the aroma of fresh ingredients and the subtle clatter of the in-house grain mill. It's a space that feels both welcoming and distinctly cutting-edge.
Beer Highlight - Alchemy IPA:
Alchemy IPA is a masterful display of brewing science. This beer boasts a golden-orange colour with a frothy head. On tasting, you're met with a burst of tropical fruits, followed by pine and a hint of earthiness. The balance between hoppy bitterness and malt sweetness is executed perfectly, leaving a crisp and refreshing aftertaste.
Three Legs Brewery Co., East Sussex: Vegan-Friendly Innovations
Pub Description:
The taproom at Three Legs Brewery Co. is the epitome of rustic charm. Set in a converted barn, its wooden tables and relaxed farmyard setting provide a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. The mix of traditional and contemporary is evident in every corner, from the rustic barrels to the modern brewing equipment visible through the glass partition.
Beer Highlight - Oatmeal Stout:
Their Oatmeal Stout is a standout, featuring a rich, dark colour with a creamy tan head. The aroma is a delightful mix of coffee and dark chocolate. On tasting, the smooth, velvety texture is immediately noticeable, complemented by flavours of roasted malts and a hint of sweetness. It's a well-balanced, comforting beer that's both hearty and easy to drink.
Cloud Water Co, Manchester & London: Ethical Brewing at Its Best
Pub Description:
The Cloud Water Co taprooms in Manchester and London are sleek and modern, embodying the brewery's commitment to ethical and progressive brewing. The decor is minimalist, with touches of greenery and natural wood that create a warm, inviting space. The atmosphere is calm and sophisticated, perfect for savouring their craft beers.
Beer Highlight - Citrus Symphony Pale Ale:
Citrus Symphony Pale Ale is an exquisite creation. It pours a hazy golden colour with a fluffy white head. The aroma is a burst of citrus - think lemons, oranges, and a hint of grapefruit. The taste is a harmonious blend of citrusy hops and a gentle malt backbone, leading to a refreshingly tart finish. It's a beer that's both complex and highly drinkable.
Knoydart Brewery, Scottish Highlands: Wilderness and Ale
Pub Description:
Knoydart Brewery, hidden in a remote chapel, offers an escape from the hustle of everyday life. The pub's interior is simple yet cosy, with wooden benches and large windows that frame the stunning Highland views. It's a serene spot where the tranquillity of nature enhances the beer tasting experience.
Beer Highlight - Heavenly Blonde:
Heavenly Blonde is a light, refreshing beer with a clear, pale golden colour. The aroma is a subtle blend of floral and fruity notes. On the palate, it's crisp and clean, with a gentle hoppy bitterness balanced by a soft maltiness. It's an easy-drinking beer that perfectly captures the purity of the Highland environment.
The Grainstore Brewery, East Midlands: Community and Craft
Pub Description:
The Grainstore Brewery in the East Midlands is a bustling hub that combines traditional pub warmth with a vibrant atmosphere. The interior, featuring rich wooden furnishings and classic pub decor, exudes a sense of comfort and timelessness. Visitors are often greeted with the lively sounds of local bands or the cheerful buzz of a community gathering. This pub is not just a place to enjoy a pint, but a social heart where friendships are made, and stories shared.
Beer Highlight - Rutland Panther:
Rutland Panther, a favourite among patrons, is a dark ale that presents a deep, ruby-black colour with a creamy, tan head. The aroma is a blend of roasted malts and a touch of dark chocolate, inviting the first sip. The flavour is rich and robust, with notes of coffee, toasted bread, and a hint of dark fruit. The finish is smooth with a lingering bitterness that is both satisfying and moreish, making Rutland Panther a perfect companion for a cosy night at the pub.
Kingstone Brewery, Wales: A Historic Haven
Pub Description:
Nestled near the historic Tintern Abbey in Wales, Kingstone Brewery offers a delightful retreat into the rustic charm of the Welsh countryside. The brewery's taproom exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere, with wooden furnishings and a cosy fireplace. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery and local walking trails, it's the perfect spot for enjoying a pint after a day of exploration.
Beer Highlight - Golden Ale:
Kingstone's Golden Ale is a refreshing and smooth beer, ideal for a relaxing day in the countryside. It has a clear, golden colour with a light, frothy head. The aroma is a mix of floral hops and a hint of citrus. The flavour is clean and crisp, with a subtle hoppy bitterness balanced by a light malt sweetness. It's a well-crafted ale that's both easy to drink and full of character.
The Black Swan, North Yorkshire: A Cultural Melting Pot
Pub Description:
The Black Swan in North Yorkshire combines the quaintness of a 300-year-old pub with the innovative spirit of modern brewing. The atmosphere is a blend of classic English pub comfort and a contemporary flair, evident in their diverse beer selection. With its welcoming interiors and scenic location on the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors, it's an ideal spot for beer lovers seeking a unique experience.
Beer Highlight - Istanbul Pale Ale:
The Istanbul Pale Ale is a testament to the brewery's creative approach, blending traditional English brewing with international influences. This pale ale has a bright, golden hue with a crisp, white head. The aroma is an intriguing mix of floral hops and exotic spices. On the palate, it offers a refreshing bitterness, complemented by a subtle, spicy undertone that pays homage to its Istanbul inspiration.
Bowland Brewery, Lancashire: A Grand Tasting Experience
Pub Description:
Bowland Brewery in Clitheroe, Lancashire, is housed in the magnificent Holmes Mill, offering a grand and atmospheric beer hall experience. The space is a harmonious blend of industrial chic and rustic charm, featuring one of the longest bars in the UK. With its extensive selection of cask ales and craft beers, it's a paradise for beer aficionados, set in a venue that's both impressive and inviting.
Beer Highlight - Hen Harrier:
Hen Harrier, a flagship ale of Bowland Brewery, is a classic session beer that's both flavourful and approachable. It presents a clear, golden colour with a steady white head. The aroma is a pleasant blend of floral hops and a light, biscuity malt. The taste is smooth and well-balanced, offering a gentle hoppy bite with a clean, malty finish. It's a beer that's perfect for long conversations and leisurely afternoons.
Thornbridge Brewery, Derbyshire: Craft Beer Pioneers
Pub Description:
Thornbridge Brewery, situated in the scenic Bakewell of Derbyshire, is a cornerstone of the UK's craft beer movement. The brewery is enveloped by the breath-taking landscapes of the Peak District, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. The taproom is modern and stylish yet retains a connection to the natural beauty that surrounds it, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate both great beer and great views.
Beer Highlight - Cocoa Wonderland:
Cocoa Wonderland is a robust porter that's a celebration of chocolate in beer form. It pours a deep, dark brown with a thick, tan head. The aroma is a luxurious blend of rich cocoa and roasted malts. The taste is a decadent journey through layers of chocolate, complemented by hints of coffee and a subtle bitterness. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, making Cocoa Wonderland a truly indulgent treat for the senses.