A craft beer tasting tour of the Bermondsey Beer Mile

Explore the Bermondsey Beer Mile with a Guided Craft Beer Tour

For those eager to experience London’s vibrant craft beer scene, the craft beer tasting tour of the Bermondsey Beer Mile offers an engaging and flavorful journey. Priced at $67.49 per person and lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, this tour showcases five distinct breweries along one of London’s most exciting beer corridors. The tour is perfect for travelers and locals alike, with half pints of beer or soft drinks included at each stop, and is designed to give a clear taste of London’s craft brewing innovation.

This tour departs from the Southwark Brewing Company and ends at Bianca Road Brew Co., providing a well-paced exploration of Bermondsey’s beer scene. With a maximum group size of 20, it maintains a friendly and intimate atmosphere, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the area’s brewing culture to life.

Key Points

• Price: $67.49 per person, offering a comprehensive tasting experience.
• Duration: Around 3 to 4 hours, ideal for a relaxed afternoon.
• Stops: Five breweries including Anspach & Hobday, Southwark Brewing Company, Brew by Numbers, Bianca Road Brew Co., and The Kernel Brewery.
• Inclusions: Half pints or soft drinks at each brewery, with no additional admission fees.
• Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides provide insights into each brewery’s craft and history.
• Booking: Usually booked 36 days in advance, making it accessible yet popular.

Starting Point at Southwark Brewing Company

The tour begins at Southwark Brewing Company, located at 46 Druid St, London SE1 2EZ. Guests receive directions to the nearest underground station, making arrival straightforward. The meeting point is at the brewing site, where the guide will introduce the group and set expectations for the day ahead.

The start is well-organized, with the tour lasting about 30 minutes at each stop initially, providing enough time to sample different beers and soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Stops along Bermondsey’s Beer Mile

Anspach & Hobday: The Arch House

The first stop introduces guests to Anspach & Hobday, known for its The Arch House taproom. Here, participants enjoy a half pint or 2/3 of a beer or soft drink. This brewery is appreciated for its welcoming ambiance and innovative brewing styles, setting a lively tone for the tour.

Southwark Brewing Company

Next, the group visits Southwark Brewing Company, the tour’s starting point. Like all stops, it offers a half pint or soft drink, allowing guests to taste a variety of craft beers. The brewery is celebrated for its friendly staff and diverse range of brews, making it a great introduction to Bermondsey’s brewing culture.

Brew by Numbers

At Brew by Numbers, the focus is on variety and creativity. Guests sample a half pint or 2/3 of a beer, with the guide explaining the different brewing styles and tasting techniques. The brewery’s reputation for experimental beers and unique flavors makes this stop particularly interesting for enthusiasts.

Bianca Road Brew Co.

The tour then moves to Bianca Road Brew Co., where another half pint or soft drink is served. The brewery’s space is designed for relaxed tasting, and the guide shares stories about its brewing philosophy. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to discuss different beers and the local brewing scene.

The Kernel Brewery

The final stop is The Kernel Brewery, known for its longstanding reputation among craft beer fans. Here, guests enjoy a 45-minute visit, the longest stop on the tour. The brewery’s expertise shines through as the guide details its history and brewing methods. The taste session often includes different styles, offering a comprehensive conclusion to the tour.

Logistics and Pacing

The meeting point at Southwark Brewing Company is conveniently located near public transportation, easing access for all participants. The tour’s pacing ensures guests experience each brewery without feeling rushed, with most stops lasting 30 minutes, except for the final one, which extends to 45 minutes.

Participants should arrive thirsty, as the tour emphasizes tasting a variety of beers. The group size of up to 20 people fosters an intimate environment, ideal for engaging conversations and personalized attention from guides.

The Guides and Their Expertise

Two guides, Paul and Dave, are praised for their friendliness and extensive knowledge. They expertly explain the different beer styles and tasting methods, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable. Their insights extend beyond the beers to include stories about the breweries and the local area, enriching the tour’s overall appeal.

Guide Style and Tips

The guides’ storytelling style is engaging, with a focus on sharing tips for exploring local beer spots beyond the tour. They’re also attentive to questions, making the experience accessible for newcomers and seasoned beer lovers alike.

Tour Experience and Atmosphere

The Bermondsey Beer Mile offers a lively, friendly atmosphere that suits beer enthusiasts who enjoy exploring local brewing scenes. The sampling at each brewery, combined with guided explanations, helps visitors discover new beers and brewing techniques.

The tour’s length and structure are well-suited for those wanting a relaxed yet immersive afternoon. The inclusion of soft drinks ensures that non-drinkers or those who prefer a lighter experience can participate comfortably.

Booking, Cancellation, and Overall Value

Most bookings are made about 36 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The price of $67.49 provides access to five breweries, expert guidance, and multiple tastings, making it an appealing value.

The tour is non-refundable, so participants should confirm availability beforehand. The service animals are allowed, and the tour accommodates most travelers, offering a flexible experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This craft beer tasting tour appeals most to beer enthusiasts, whether you’re new to craft beers or a seasoned aficionado. It’s especially suited for those interested in discovering London’s microbreweries in a small-group setting. The tour also appeals to visitors wanting an authentic local experience, with the added bonus of learning from knowledgeable guides.

Final Thoughts on the Bermondsey Beer Mile Tour

The guided craft beer tour of Bermondsey’s Beer Mile combines delicious beer tastings, local brewery stories, and friendly guidance into a compact, enjoyable package. The five stops showcase London’s vibrant craft beer scene, and the expert guides ensure an informative experience.

While the non-refundable policy means booking with certainty is wise, the overall value and quality make it worthwhile for beer lovers wanting to explore London’s brewing culture in a relaxed, social setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $67.49 per person, including five brewery visits and tastings.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, with enough time at each brewery for sampling and discussion.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Southwark Brewing Company and ends at Bianca Road Brew Co..

Are drinks included?
Yes, half pints or 2/3 of a beer or soft drink are included at each stop.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, soft drinks are available, making it accessible for non-drinkers or those who prefer lighter options.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 36 days in advance.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, with directions provided.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, guides Paul and Dave are praised for their friendliness and expertise.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly experience.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable, so it’s best to confirm before booking.

Is service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.