THE LOGBOOK // DRINKS AND EATS
10 of The Best: Breweries and Tap Rooms
Words: LoG Editorial Team
"Good people drink good beer." Our American cousins have much to answer for; The Kardashians, the Pumpkin Spiced Latte and "The Donald," to name an unholy few. But whilst their tastes and taste buds often confound, one thing is certain: the origins of our thriving craft beer scene lie squarely at their sneakered feet. Beginning with the likes of Anchor Brewing and Sierra Nevada in California, the craft revolution took its time to cross the Atlantic, but once it did, its progress was as remarkable as it was welcome.
—Hunter S. Thompson, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Today, the UK industry is positively thriving, with a plethora of independent breweries, tap rooms and brew pubs catering to every conceivable taste and inclination. For beer lovers and brew geeks, these wonderfully unique spots offer the opportunity to taste some of the UK's best beer, fresh from source. But while great sites abound, some just aren't worth that mind-melting IPA hangover. So, in an effort to sort the wheat from the chaff, we've listed ten exceptional destinations below, all demonstrating the quality, diversity and innovation inherent in UK brewing.
There's no system or criteria for selection, because like a pint of Carling, that would be pointless. Beer (aside from Carling), is subjective, like the places we drink it, so after some rather extensive research, we've simply picked ten unique spots we think you'll love. We've ordered the list from North to South, to stress a lack of hierarchy, and it certainly isn't exhaustive. Like all lists, it's just a good place to start.
№001 // Knoydart Brewery (Scottish Highlands)
Tucked away in the remote wilderness of Scotland, Knoydart Brewery offers a truly unique experience. Founded in 2012 by the Knoydart Foundation, this incredible brewery operates in what is often referred to as the most remote spot in the UK.
It's isolation is a defining feature, situated in a location without road access, which requires visitors to embark on a journey by boat or a long hike through the Scottish Highlands. This remoteness not only shapes the adventurous spirit of the brewery but also the flavour of its beers. The water used comes from a natural spring behind the village, anchoring itself in that rugged surrounding landscape.
Despite its remote location, Knoydart has made a name for itself with its sustainable brewing methods and community-driven ethos. Being disconnected from the hustle and bustle of urban life, the brewery embraces a slower pace, allowing for traditional brewing methods and a deeper connection to the wild environment it's situated in. This one's certainly for the more adventurous; those seeking a unique experience, where enjoying a pint is as much about the journey and the setting as it is the beer.
№002 // PORTY VAULT (EDINBURGH)
Located in the vibrant Portobello area of Edinburgh, Porty Vault is a must-visit for anyone in Auld Reekie with a few hours to spare. Opened in 2022, it's the second tap room from the team behind Vault City Brewery, which proudly claims itself the home of modern sour beer. The space is small but perfectly suited, especially in the colder months, where its intimate size and warm lighting offer a welcome respite against Edinburgh's "fresher" weather.
Vault City are particularly renowned for their fruit-heavy, sour beer specialisation, which has become a defining feature of their eclectic lineup. Visitors can expect a rotating tap list, with exciting new releases and familiar favorites, like the Giant Lollipop Raspberry Vanilla Sour and the Pineapple Upside Down Cake. They offer beer flights as a way to sample these delightfully mad concoctions, and if fruit sours aren't your thing, there are always great guest beers on tap.
In addition to its impressive beer list, the team regularly host great pop-up restaurants, with previous incumbents included El Perro Negro (burgers), Bundits (bao buns) and Chooks (fried chicken). It's an impressive and well-paired record, which more importantly means you can settle in for a solid session.
№003 // Track Brewing (Manchester)
Track Brewing Co. has been a staple in Manchester's craft beer scene since 2014. Renowned for its hop-forward beers and commitment to quality, Track's taproom is one of the best we've visited; a colourful, welcoming space where patrons can enjoy fresh brews and notably friendly service, all framed by huge, gleaming fermentation tanks. The brewery's signature Sonoma pale ale is a distinct favourite, perfectly balancing citrus and floral notes for a refreshing, hoppy hit.
Whilst the beer and the space are worth the trip alone, one standout addition is the brewery's in-house running club, One Foot Forward. "Sonoma fuelled and socially paced," this group meets regularly for invigorating, all-level runs around Manchester, combining the joy of exercise with the social camaraderie the craft scene is famous for. After evening sessions, participants are welcomed back to the brewery for beers and food, creating a nice balance of booze and fitness.
This is the sort of stuff that excites us about the craft beer scene; fostering a community and making it about more than just the beer, something we think Track should be recognised for.
№004 // Saint Mars of the Desert (Sheffield)
Sheffield's St Mars of the Desert (SMOD) is a hidden gem founded by veteran brewers Dann and Martha Paquette, in 2018. With a focus on traditional brewing techniques and innovative flavors, SMOD offers a range of complex beers that challenge more basic styles.
The taproom itself is a testament to craftsmanship. Visitors are greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and vibrant, eclectic art pieces that reflect the eccentric spirit of the brewers. It's a feast for the eyes and we're here for it. There's custom-made wooden furniture and bright murals that set it apart from the lacking imagination of conventional, industrial tap rooms.
But the USP here are the owners. Masterminds Dann and Martha are something of legends in the U.S. craft brew scene. With over two decades of experience, the couple first gained notoriety in Boston, Massachusetts, where they established the renowned Pretty Things Beer and Ale Project. Their innovative approach and commitment to quality quickly earned them a dedicated (and lasting) following.
Known for pushing the boundaries of brewing, theirs is a reputation that precedes them, as a quick google will attest. After relocating to Sheffield, they brought their passion and expertise to SMOD, where they continue (alongside Grimbold the pub dog/legend) to challenge and delight fans.
№005 // Signature Brew (London)
Signature Brew has been at the forefront of London's craft beer revolution since 2011. Located in the relatively quiet neighborhood of Blackhorse Road, in North East London, the Signature Brew Taproom offers locals a pint with a little more life in it.
Established by brewers with a passion for music, gigs, playlists and performances are the selling point here. The taproom regularly features live events across a range of genres and with proper, dedicated staging and a custom D&B Audiotecknik sound system, this isn't the classic cramped corner at the back of a pub.
As well as live performances, they host album launches and even band meet-and-greets, creating a community hub for brew-loving music fans. With an ever-evolving lineup of beers, including their signature, award-winning Studio Lager and Roadie IPA, these guys provide a perfect little haven for those who appreciate decent music with their beer.
№006 // Hackney Church Brew Co. (London)
Born from a refurbishment of the historic St John's Church, Hackney Church Brew Co. is a modern brewery that retains elements of its architectural heritage, whilst indulging in some decidedly innovative brewing practices. Those practices have earned it a slew of awards, including The World Beer Awards' Brewery of the Year and Innovator of the Year (both for 2024), demonstrating that the brew team here certainly know what they're doing.
But whilst the decor and the beer don't disappoint, it's the food that tips this one for us. A trip to Hackney Church isn't complete without indulging in some fine eats from Lagom, the resident culinary incumbents who, according to the Guardian's Jay Rayner "make one old man very happy." High praise indeed from a man who doesn't offer it easily. Lagom bring a unique twist to traditional barbecue, producing an incredible menu filled with bold flavours and innovative dishes that perfectly complement the brewery's diverse range of beers. Just check out their insta @eatlagom and thank us later.
№007 // The Barrel Project (London)
For those seeking a truly unique beer adventure, The Barrel Project in South London's famous Bermondsey beer mile is a venue worth checking out. Stepping in, you're immediately struck by the presence of over 200 cask barrels lining the walls, offering a setting that's both inviting and a little awe-inspiring.
As the decor suggests, this place specialises in barrel-aged beers, each cask the result of painstakingly monitored processes that can last years, offering a depth and complexity unparalleled in standard brewing. The rich history of barrel-aging is honoured here, with casks sourced from all over the world, imparting the beer with unique characteristics. Regular events and tasting sessions are held, where guests can learn about the different types used (e.g. bourbon, wine, sherry etc), and how each contributes distinct flavours to the final product.
The Barrel Project's use of a "coolship" highlights its commitment to interesting, traditional practices. A large, flat open vessel (in this case a modified Toyota pickup truck), a coolship is used to cool wort (what beer starts as) naturally, allowing it to be inoculated by wild yeast present in the air. The team drive this converted truck around the country, capturing natural yeast wherever they roam. This method, deeply rooted in Belgian brewing traditions, imparts a unique terroir to the beer, contributing to its distinctive flavours and aromas. Apparently. And either way it's a cool story.
№008 // Wiper and True (Bristol)
There are a few great breweries in Bristol, but Wiper and True gets our pick. It's a green haven for craft lovers that combines tradition, sustainability and a beaut setting, especially in the warmer months. Amongst their more famous creations is the "Kaleidoscope," a refreshingly balanced pale ale that delights with a blend of rotating hops. Another standout is the "Milk Shake," a milk stout known for its rich, creamy texture and clear notes of chocolate and vanilla.
Aside from the beer, the main attraction here is the tap room and its huge glass windows, serving as a portal into the brewing process and those massive fermentation tanks. The view from inside the tap room here is as impressive as any on our list.
The other, more seasonal USP, is the brewery's prided beer garden; a truly lovely little outdoor area, woven with lush foliage, that provides a relaxing retreat from the Bristol city bustle. Rare for a city tap room, this green corner offers a moment of open-air solitude that most breweries can't rival.
№009 // The Four Candles Alehouse (Broadstairs)
Located in the charming seaside town of Broadstairs, The Four Candles Alehouse is an establishment that holds the unique distinction of being the UK's smallest brew pub. Despite its diminutive size, this quaint boozer offers an impressive range of expertly brewed ales that draw beer lovers from near and far.
In keeping with its friendly, communal spirit, owner Mike Beaumont has implemented a unique policy: no phones or WiFi allowed. This deliberate decision is an effort to encourage patrons to disconnect from the digital world and engage with each other in meaningful, face-to-face interactions. And it's clearly working. The brew pub has garnered significant acclaim in the brewing community, earning accolades for its exceptional ales and in recent years has been recognized in the prestigious Great British Pub Awards, where it was highlighted for its innovation and commitment to quality.
It's a small but mighty brewing operation, but one well worth a visit. Just make sure to keep your phone in your pocket.
№010 // Verdant Brew Co. (Penryn)
Situated in the bustling town of Penryn (near Falmouth) in Cornwall, Verdant stand as a bright, exciting hub for craft beer aficionados and casual visitors looking for a good time. We promised we wouldn't pick favourites, but with a gun to our head we might begrudgingly whimper this one.
Known for their bold, flavourful brews, the taproom is a popular destination for those seeking exceptional craft beers in the South West. Their signatures are characterised by vibrant hop profiles and intense flavours, with notable standouts including Headband, (a well-balanced pale) Lightbulb, (a biscuity extra pale) and Pulp, (a very juicy IPA). Another noteworthy offering are their particularly amazing pizzas. Tasty af, these provide a doughy, absorptive companion to an evening spent working your way through the tap list.
Above all else, set and setting are the draw here. The tap room itself has been really well designed, with an upmarket yet industrial feel, great lighting and windows into the brewery beyond. Plus its proximity to the water and sizable outdoor area mean seaside scents and great views. You could even have a quick swim before you settle in, which, like beer and pizza in the Cornish sea air, sounds like a pretty good idea to us.
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