A Beer Lover’s Guide to Exploring Britain’s Best Craft Breweries

Introduction

Fancy a tipple? Maybe you’re fed up with the same supermarket staples and you’re itching for something with a bit more oomph? Well, you’re in luck, my friend! Britain is home to a rather impressive array of craft breweries that’ll make your taste buds waltz like they’re at the last night of the Proms. Strap yourselves in, grab a pint glass, and let’s dive headfirst into the frothy goodness that is British craft beer.

Why Craft Beer?

Before we start gallivanting around Britain, let’s address the elephant in the taproom: why the hullabaloo around craft beer? In short, craft beers are like a bespoke suit made just for you—unique, carefully crafted, and with a personality all its own. These microbreweries pride themselves on their quality ingredients and inventive processes, often producing limited batches that scream ‘drink me!’.

According to the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), the UK now boasts over 2,000 independent breweries. That’s nearly triple the number from just a decade ago! With that in mind, we reckon it’s high time to curate a list of must-visit craft breweries throughout the UK.

London: Beavertown Brewery

Ah, London! The Big Smoke doesn’t just offer iconic landmarks; it’s chock-a-block with some cracking craft breweries too.

Why Visit?

• Beavertown Brewery’s signature beers like Gamma Ray and Neck Oil are practically the stuff of legends.
• Situated in Tottenham, this place has a facade as quirky and vibrant as its beers. Think graffiti-style art coupled with a laid-back atmosphere.

Drink to Try

• Gamma Ray: It’s an American Pale Ale that’s both fruity and hoppy. The tropical flavours might just transport you to a sunnier clime.

For more details and perhaps a virtual tour, head over to Beavertown Brewery.

Bristol: Moor Beer Company

Next, we venture to Bristol, a city that’s long been the creative hub of the southwest. Here, you will find the Moor Beer Company.

Why Visit?

• Established by California ex-pat Justin Hawke in 2004, Moor has been a trailblazer in brewing techniques.
• They’ve even earned the right to label their brews as "Natural" thanks to their refusal to filter or pasteurise their beers.

Drink to Try

• Hoppiness: This IPA will make your senses dance with its well-balanced bitterness and fruity aroma.

You can see what’s brewing at Moor Beer Company.

Edinburgh: Stewart Brewing

Northwards to Scotland, where the enchanting city of Edinburgh holds Stewart Brewing high on its list of artisan ale producers.

Why Visit?

• Established in 2004, it’s not just the award-winning beers that draw the crowds but also its interactive sessions like "Brew-it-Yourself."
• The brewery is located just outside of Edinburgh in Loanhead, perfect for a quick jaunt out of the city centre.

Drink to Try

• Edinburgh Gold: This golden ale provides a smooth taste with a subtly sweet finish—perfectly Scottish, if you ask us.

For more information, peek in at Stewart Brewing.

Manchester: Cloudwater Brew Co.

Moving to the North, Manchester rises as a pivotal point of the craft beer revolution, with Cloudwater Brew Co. leading the pack.

Why Visit?

• Cloudwater has made waves since its inception, with a primary focus on seasonal ingredients.
• They’ve garnered rave reviews and even snagged a spot in the RateBeer’s Top 10 Best Breweries in the World in 2020.

Drink to Try

• DIPA: The Double IPA is as deliciously decadent as it sounds, packed with a punch while still remaining smooth and balanced.

Take a deeper draught at Cloudwater Brew Co..

Cornwall: St Austell Brewery

Let’s meander down to the picturesque reaches of Cornwall, where the charming St Austell Brewery offers a taste of tradition married with modern technique.

Why Visit?

• Established in 1851, it’s one of Cornwall’s oldest breweries, known for its sustainability efforts and community spirit.
• They’ve got their own visitor centre where you can mingle with other beer aficionados and learn about the fascinating history of the brewery.

Drink to Try

• Proper Job: A powerfully hopped IPA that will undoubtedly declare, "Job well done!"

Find your way to more info at St Austell Brewery.

Yorkshire: North Brewing Co.

Yorkshire folk are known for their no-nonsense approach, and this extends to their craft beers. North Brewing Co., based in Leeds, is a testament to Yorkshire’s brewing heritage.

Why Visit?

• Launched in 2015, North Brewing has received accolades for its innovative styles and crisp, refreshing flavours.
• The taproom is based at the brewery itself, providing a genuine experience for those keen on seeing the magic firsthand.

Drink to Try

• Prototype: A New England IPA that boasts a hazy, juicy profile, practically begging to be enjoyed while imagining you’re in a Yorkshire field.

Check them out: North Brewing Co..

Conclusion

And there you have it, a whirlwind tour through some of Britain’s most remarkable craft breweries. From the vibrant streets of London to the scenic vistas of Scotland, there’s an exceptional pint awaiting your discovery.

Key Takeaways:

• Craft breweries offer unique, carefully crafted beers that are rich in flavour and quality.
• Visiting these breweries provides not only outstanding beer but a sense of community and history.
• Britain’s craft beer scene is flourishing, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts and novices alike.

So, what say you? Ready to grab a pint and get stuck into the best of Britain’s brewery offerings?

Have You Been to Any of These Breweries?

We’d love to hear about your experiences. Share your favourite brewery visit and what craft beer stole your heart in the comments below! Cheers! 🍻