London Beer Tour: Cask Ales to Craft Beer

Get beyond the stereotypical associations, learn about the craft and sample the delights of this mainstay of British culture
From US$226 privately
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Tour Details
Duration
3 hours
Product Type
Tour
Venues
  • Borough Market
  • Beer Brewery
Photos & Highlights
  • Taste beer in micro-breweries and local pubs
  • Led by food anthropologist and beer expert
Select a date
Tour Description
Pubs and beer are a symbol of British society and tradition as much as tea and cakes and fish and chips. But beyond the stereotypes, do you know what lies behind the tradition of beer and pubs? This 3-hour London Beer and Brewery Tour offers a new perspective and appreciation of beer as we enjoy ample tastings at various pubs and breweries located in the Southwark/Borough area. Led by an expert in the beer and brewing industry, we’ll focus on the history of brewing in London, highlighting beer’s evolution from a dietary staple to the almost lost tradition of cask ales, to today’s renaissance of craft beer and brewing.

London Beer and Brewery Tour

Our walk, led by a food anthropologist or beer expert, travels through London's historic Borough and South Bank area, visiting pubs that hark back to the days when London was the brewing capital of the world. We visit the site of what was once the world's biggest brewery, discover the hidden history of the hop trade, and meet Jacob the dray horse among other highlights. Following our heritage walk, we'll discover some classic London pubs including the last remaining Southwark inn, dating from at least the 16th century. Along the way we'll sample some excellent cask beer, a unique British specialty, in the company of an expert beer taster and judge -- you may even get a chance to pull your own pint. The exact stops and presentation will vary depending on the guide and group and what's available on the day but will always include plenty for anyone with an interest in London's great brewing scene past and present.

Take Aways

Along the way, we will sample a range of British and local beers to experience the diversity of the country’s brewing industry. We will examine how all of these products fit into the British diet, along with other culinary traditions and philosophies. At the end of the walk, we will have gained an understanding of the significance of beer in British history, including its contribution to diet, its social status, and the decline and rebirth of the brewing industry in England.

Booking Instructions

Please note any allergies or intolerances in the Notes box when booking.


Food enthusiasts, we suggest you also take a look at our London Food Tour.

FAQ

Where do we meet? Where does it end?
Generally speaking, the walk begins and ends in the Shoreditch neighborhood. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.


What if it’s raining?
Tours operate rain or shine. There is some walking in between pubs, but the vast majority of this tour takes place indoors.


Can children join this tour?
The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. Under-18s are allowed on private bookings, but they can not drink.


Is this a walking intensive tour?
This walk covers around 2.5 miles. There are plenty of opportunities to sit and use the bathroom if needed. The bars we visit have ground-floor bathrooms.
Where You'll Start
22 Reviews (4.67)

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Excellent tour! Had a blast. Our tour guide Chris was great. Perfect combination of knowledge of beer and historic pubs, and humor.
This was a fantastic walking history tour (a decent amount of walking so come prepared) where we could sample ales and brews at various locations. Des was so friendly and incredibly knowledgeable. It ended up being a private tour for the 5 of us and was a great way to kick off our London trip and took us to parts of the city we may not have otherwise explored!
Des was an incredible guide and very accommodating. Very knowledgeable and made great selections for our tasting!