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London brewery list changes: 2024

Posted 2024-12-06 14:09:11

Here we keep track of changes to our London brewery list in 2024:

Deletions from the London brewery list in 2024:

1) Brick Brewery: reported to have stopped brewing in late 2023. Location of brewing in future still to be confirmed.

2) Coalition Brewing @ The Ram Inn, Wandsworth: brewing confirmed to have stopped by early January 2024. Future of kit remains unclear. Coalition continue to brew at Hepworth.

3) Meantime Brewery: brewing moved to Fullers, March 2024.

4) Babel Beerhouse: Confirmed on a visit in May 2024 that brewing is not currently taking place.

5) Old Street Brewery: Closed in early 2024

6) Friendship Adventure Brewery: Closed and sold in May 2024

7) Affinity Brew Co: Closed in March 2024

8) Fourpure Brewing: Closed in September 2024 with production moved to Magic Rock

9) Wild Card Brewery: Closed in October 2024

10) ORA Brewing: Closed in November 2024

Additions to the London brewery list in 2024:

1) Bird House Brewery: Took over the old Canopy kit and premises in Herne Hill.

2) Hopewell Brewery: Nanobrewery housed in The Lockdown Room, Canning Town

3) Supercute Brewery: Bought Friendship Adventure Brewery in May 2024

4) CBJ Brewing: Nanobrewery installed in Craft Beer Junction, Bermondsey in August 2024

5) Blondies Brewery: Confirmation on a visit at the end of August 2024 that brewing had commenced on site

Current total no of London breweries on our list = 103.

Full list here: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Guide entries deleted in 2024

Posted 2024-12-06 13:50:35

Here we will list all deletions from the Guide in 2024, whether due to closure or reduced beer range, etc:

1) Mondo Beer & Pizza, Bankside SE1: reported closed, January 2024.

2 - 23) All 22 BrewDog bars which were in the Guide as of 8 Feb 2024. All were removed as they no longer meet our criteria.

24-26) All 3 Laine Brew Co bars which were in the Guide as of 8 Feb 2024. All were removed as they no longer meet our critieria.

27) Friendship Adventure, Brixton Market - 'temporarily' closed, Feb 2024.

28) Prairie Fire at the Wood Lane Arches - permanently closed, Feb 2024.

29) Beer Asylum, Pinner - permanently closed, Mar 2024.

30) Meantime Tasting Rooms, Greenwich - permanently closed, May 2024

31) White Horse, Parsons Green - Beer list no longer merits entry in to the Guide, May 2024

32) Richmond Vault, Richmond - Beer list no longer merits entry in to the Guide, May 2024

33) Haverstock Tavern, Belsize Park - Beer list no longer merits entry in to the Guide, June 2024

34) Old Street Brewery Tap, Hackney Wick - Closed in April 2024

35) Little Faith Taproom, Deptford - permanently closed, June 2024

36) Eebria Tap Room, Bermondsey - confirmed permanently closed on website, July 2024

37) Grosvenor, Hanwell - Beer list no longer merits entry in to the Guide, July 2024

38) Riff Raffs, Croydon - Beer list no longer merits entry in to the Guide, July 2024

39) Bexley Brewery Tap, Erith - Confirmed by brewery that is now only opens occasionally, July 2024

40) Kill The Cat (Brick Lane), Spitalfields - permanently closed, July 2024

41) Hackney Tap, Hackney - permanently closed, July 2024

42) The Kernel Taproom, Bermondsey - taproom relocated in August 2024

43) Fourpure Brewery Taproom, Bermondsey - permanently closed, September 2024

44) Wild Card Lockwood, Walthamstow - closed in October 2024

45) Wild Card Barrel Store (Ravenswood), Walthamstow - closed in October 2024

46) Beer & Beyond, Wimbledon - closed in October 2024

47) ORA Brewing Tap Room - closed in November 2024

New Guide Entries 2024

Posted 2024-09-29 07:09:43

Here we will list all new Guide entries in 2024, with hotlinks for ease of reference:

1) EKO Brewery & Tap Room, Peckham

2) Bird House Brewery & Tap Room, Herne Hill

3) Brewgels, Brixton

4) Clarkshaws Brewery & Taproom, Loughborough Junction

5) The Lockdown Room, Canning Town

6) Clapton Craft (Kentish Town), Kentish Town

7) Craft Beer Cabin (Bromley), Bromley

8) The Lamb, Islington

9) The Dog & Bell, Deptford

10) The Lucky Anchor, Deptford

11) Nicholas Nickleby, Crouch Hill

12) The Kernel Spa Road, Bermondsey

13) One Inn The Wood, Petts Wood

14) The Antwerp Arms, Tottenham

15) Macintosh Ale House, Stoke Newington

16) All Good | N1, Dalston

17) Perivale Brewery, Perivale

18) The King of Prussia, Finchley

19) Duke of St Albans, Highgate

20) Coach & Horses (Greek Street), Soho

21) Feed The Yak! (Deptford), Deptford

22) The Eagle Ale House, Clapham Junction

The future of Beer Guide London

Posted 2024-03-13 05:09:16

The future of Beer Guide London - a note from Jezza:

We launched Beer Guide London in its current format 10 years ago, in January 2014. It started many years before then as a Word document on which I noted good places to drink beer in London. I used to send it to anyone who asked me for tips on the best places.

A collaboration with my long-time friend and fellow beer geek Fred Waltman, who knew more about IT than I’ll ever know, led to the Guide going online and that early 2014 launch. Since then, the Guide has continued to expand in line with the growth of the beer scene in London – it currently lists around 300 Guide entries and a comprehensive list of all London breweries.

However, nothing lasts forever, hence this update.

On 31st May 2023 Fred died (quite suddenly, after a short illness), leaving an enormous void in all things Beer Guide (London is just one of around 20 Guides that Fred set up online).

And in early May 2024, I am moving from London to Bruges. While one can never predict the future, this move is likely to be for the long term. It’s just not realistic or practical to continue my current role – visiting new pubs, bars and brewery taps, and tracking, recording and publicising changes in the beer scene in London – while living in a different country. So for these reasons I will not be continuing my work on the Guide.

Losing both co-founders within a year – albeit for entirely different reasons – presents a significant challenge, but we recognise that many people enjoy our work, and we’re extremely grateful for all the positive feedback.

At the minute, the IT side of the Guide is being looked after by Fred’s brother Bob, but this should only be considered a holding position and there is no guarantee that Beer Guide London or any of the sister sites will continue to have available the IT platform which Fred set up and looked after. We are greatly indebted to Bob for his work to keep things ticking over for now.

For the last five years or so it’s been great to have Steve Jackson (@musinganorak) on board as both an extra researcher and a crucial sounding board. I’ve really enjoyed working with Steve on the Guide and greatly appreciate all his help and advice. We have very similar views about the Guide’s criteria and which places should be included – or not – and that advice has proved invaluable over the years we’ve been working together.

While the Guide may or may not have a long-term future (given the IT situation in the post-Fred era), I’m delighted that Steve has agreed to try to keep things going for the moment. Below he explains more about the interim arrangements that we’re putting in place.

Jezza, March 2024

The Time’s They Are A Changin – a note from Steve:

As I am sure the majority of you reading this know Jeremy has made public the news that he is living his dream and moving to Bruges for the not inconsiderable future. The first thing to do is pass on my public congratulations on achieving this step, I know it has been a long held ambition. Expect to see an awful lot of updates to Beer Guide Brugge in the next few years, and maybe even a mooted Beer Guide Brussels. This news comes after we suffered the sad, untimely, passing of Guide co-founder Fred last year. The two of them made the Guide what we know today.

So where does this leave the Guide?

I would love to be able to say that everything will continue as before, but I can’t. I will forever be in awe of the time and energy Jeremy put in to checking and re-checking Guide entries. This really is his baby. I am equally honoured to have been asked to join him as a lowly assistant. I shared his vision and enthusiasm, just not quite his stamina. We worked well together because we got on with each other from day one and we shared the same views as to what constituted the requirements to go in to the Guide. We have never disagreed over an entry, current or potential. This complete lack of animosity has made working on the Guide a pleasure, and never a chore.

However, I am not in the fortunate position of either living or working in London. I’m tucked away on the outer edge, near LHR, which makes every research journey more of a military operation and I certainly can’t squeeze Guide research around ‘handy work meetings’ in a way that Jeremy could when he was working.

It would be easy to quit and leave the current version of the Guide as an homage, but I don’t think that this would be fair on anybody. A lot of you look to our guidance, I have no idea why but I thank each and every one of you!

We, therefore, have been trying to find a way to keep things rolling along, albeit at a slightly slower pace than currently. For a while now there has been a loose “committee” of trusted friends who have provided valuable feedback on the ever changing beer scene, alerting us to new venues, checking them out and updating us on changes to current entries. Going forward, the Guide will be more reliant on this approach. It is going to take a group of us to be able to come anywhere close to the amount of work that Jeremy put in.

The other elephant in the room is a consequence of Fred’s passing. He wrote the database, the website and the app. He knew all of its foibles and we are no longer able to e-mail him at any time of day when a problem occurs. For now it is all still ticking along, but we have no idea as to how long this will continue. I am therefore looking at other ways of presenting the Guide data to make it as accessible as possible. I don’t know yet what this approach might end up looking like, but I do know that I don’t want to lose all of the valuable data that has been accumulated over the years.

So, hopefully the Guide will continue but you may notice some changes. Bear with us, we will do our best to provide the same level of information we always have. It may just take a little bit longer.

And, finally, if you feel that you can offer assistance in any way, no matter how small, then please do get in touch and we can have a chat over a beer some time, somewhere!

Steve, March 2024

Beer Guide London statistics 2023

Posted 2023-12-31 04:07:10

We started 2023 with 312 Guide entries (this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc.) and we end the year with 315, so a net increase of 3 places.

We added 30 new (or re-opened) places (par for the course since 2020, but far below the pre-pandemic annual average) but balancing these new places were 27 deletions (thankfully down from the 2022 figure of 46). Notable this year is the number of places deleted due to a reduction in beer range, as opposed to closure.

(photo = The Trafalgar, South Wimbledon, one of the best & most welcome pub re-openings of 2023)

Guide entries deleted in 2023

Posted 2023-12-31 04:06:30

Here we will list all deletions from the Guide in 2023, whether due to closure or reduced beer range, etc.

1. Oxford Tavern, Kentish Town: permanently closed, Jan 2023.

2. Resting Hare, Euston: permanently closed, Jan 2023.

3. Brave Sir Robin, Crouch Hill: permanently closed, Feb 2023.

4. Beer Hawk Southbank: permanently closed (actually closed Dec 2022).

5. Boxcar Taproom, Bethnal Green: permanently closed, Feb 2023.

6. Understudy, South Bank: downgraded due to reduced beer range, Feb 2023.

7. Brew Club Tap Room, Hackney: closed Mar 2023.

8. BrewDog Clapham Junction: closed Mar 2023.

9. BrewDog Brixton: closed Mar 2023.

10. Partizan Taproom, Bermondsey: closed Mar 2023 (brewery moving to Leicestershire).

11. Lock and Barrel, Bromley - closed 31 March 2023.

12. Brew By Numbers Tap Room, Bermondsey - closed May 2023.

13. Lowline tap room, Kennington - closed May 2023.

14. Mansion Pub, Kennington - reduced beer range (July 2023).

15. Four Thieves, Clapham - reduced beer range (July 2023).

16. Spartan Brewery Tap, Bermondsey - closed late June 2023.

17. The Experiment, Hackney - closed July 2023.

18. Smokehouse, Islington - reduced beer range (August 2023).

19. Brew By Numbers Taproom, Greenwich - closed Oct 2023 (may reopen later - TBC).

20. Beer + Burger, Dalston - closed Nov 2023 (now delivery/take away only from another location nearby).

21. The Horseshoe, Hampstead - reduced beer range (Nov 2023).

22. Archway Tavern, Archway - reduced beer range (Nov 2023).

23. Deviant and Dandy Taproom, Hackney - closed (Dec 2023).

24. Beavertown Corner Pin, Tottenham - 'temporarily' closed, Dec 2023.

25. Beavertown Tap Room, Tottenham Hale - 'temporarily' closed, Dec 2023.

26. Sympathetic Ear, Brixton - closed earlier this year, date unknown.

27. Art & Craft Streatham 2 - closed, date unknown (NB: the other branch by Streatham Hill station is still open).

New Guide entries 2023

Posted 2023-12-31 03:57:16

Here we will list all new Guide entries in 2023, with hotlinks for ease of reference:

1) Great Beyond Brewing Co taproom, Hoxton

2) 3 Locks Brewing Co taproom, Camden

3) Pretty Decent taproom, Blackhorse Lane

4) Riff Raffs, Croydon

5) The Green Goddess, Blackheath

6) The Long Pond, Eltham

7) The Bolter, Mansion House

8) Hammersmith Craft Brewery Tap, Hammersmith

9) Northumberland Arms, Brentford

10) BrewDog Wandsworth

11) Three Colts Tavern, Bethnal Green

12) Mondo Beer + Pizza, Borough Yards, SE1

13) Enid St Tavern, Bermondsey

14) Beer & Beyond, Wimbledon

15) The Trafalgar, South Wimbledon (reopened)

16) Mother Kelly's N17

17) Clapton Craft St John's Hill

18) Stone Mini Market, Leytonstone

19) Kill the Cat, Spitalfields Market

20) Battersea Brewery Substation, Bermondsey

21) Kraft Brixton, Brixton Market

22) Tate Modern Corner Bar, South Bank

23) Friendship Adventure, Brixton Market

24) Cronx Tap, Croydon (reopened in new location)

25) The Robin, Crouch Hill (reopened)

26) Saint Monday Taproom, London Fields (reopened, but new owners & name)

27) Blondies Brewery Taproom, Leyton

28) Libertalia Brewery Taproom, Leyton

29) True Craft, Walthamstow

30) It Ain't Much if it Ain't Dutch, Bermondsey

London brewery statistics 2023

Posted 2023-12-31 03:39:42

We started 2023 with 119 London breweries on our list, and end it with 108, so a net decrease of 11 for the year. This follows net decreases of 14 in 2022 and 3 in 2021. We recorded 6 new breweries (a reduction from 8 in 2022) but deleted 17 from our list (the 2022 figure was 22). The number of deletions was not all due to closures - some of those deleted moved out of London or decided to contract brew. Others are more accurately described as having suspended brewing, so they may or may not resume brewing in future.

The 6 new - or 'resumed' - breweries are: The Ram, Wandsworth, where Coalition have been brewing this year; Babel Beerhouse (previously Little Creatures); Saint Monday (previously London Fields); Battersea Substation (previously Spartan); Firkin, Lewisham and Libertalia (in the space previously occupied by Gravity Well).

The list of breweries deleted from our list this year can be found here.

The current list of London breweries can be found here.

London brewery list changes: 2023

Posted 2023-12-31 03:36:30

Here we keep track of changes to our London brewery list in 2023:

Deletions from London brewery list in 2023:

1. One Mile End (aka OME Beer): closed January 2023.

2. Boxcar Brewery: Bethnal Green site closed February 2023, though they will continue to brew elsewhere until they can find a new brewery of their own.

3. Partizan Brewing, Bermondsey: closed Mar 2023. Brewery moving to Leicestershire due to cost.

4. Mad Yank, Pinner: closed April 2023 (in administration, we understand).

5. Urban Alchemy, Barnet: closed April 2023 (seeking new premises in due course, but tap room closed and brewing suspended for now).

6. Brew By Numbers Bermondsey (which was hosting Mellor's Brewing) - closed May 2023.

7. Spartan Brewery, Bermondsey - closed June 2023.

8. Three Hills, Bermondsey - brewing stopped spring 2023. All brewing now at their Northampton brewery.

9. Block Brewery (Wenlock Arms) - brewing stopped and all brewing equipment removed (August 2023).

10. Fearless Nomad, Brentford - brewing suspended (by spring/summer 2023?)

11. Beavertown @ Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - brewing suspended (spring 2023).

12. Deviant and Dandy, Hackney - closed, December 2023.

13. Dog's Grandad, Brixton - closed, December 2023.

14. BBNos, Greenwich - brewing suspended, future unclear. December 2023.

15. Husk, Canning Town - brewing suspended, due to resume in 2024, date TBC.

16. MacIntosh Ales - currently brewing elsewhere, December 2023.

17. Salt London - brewing suspended, December 2023.

Additions to London brewery list in 2023:

1. Coalition Brewing @ The Ram, Wandsworth.

2. Babel Beerhouse, Kings Cross - brewing on site has apparently returned to what was previously Little Creatures.

3. Saint Monday, London Fields.

4. Battersea Substation, Bermondsey.

5. Firkin Brewery, Lewisham.

6. Libertalia Brewing, Leyton.

Current total no of London breweries on our list = 108.

Full list here: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Brewery deletions & additions 2022

Posted 2022-12-30 02:28:22

This list records all breweries reported as closed during 2022. They include::

Old Kent Road Brewery: reported closed at end of January.
Ctzn Brew, East Sheen: reported closed February 2022.
Fountain Brewhouse, EC1: brewing suspended, but will hopefully restart later.
Weird Beard: brewing suspended; brand sold to a brewery outside London (March 2022).
People's Park Tavern (Laine's): brewing equipment removed (March 2022)
Gorgeous Brewery (The Bull, Highgate): pub sold to GK, brewing equipment removed; beers being cuckoo brewed for now (March 2022).
Enefeld: brewing suspended (March 2022).
Sly Beast: brewing suspended (March 2022).
Truman's: we understand they are now contract brewing, outside London.
Three Sods: reported as due to close early August 2022.
St Mary's Brewery: brewing currently suspended (August 2022).
Wrong Side of the Tracks: brewing currently suspended (August 2022).
Brewhouse & Kitchen, Islington: closed for major refurb, brewing suspended (Sept 2022).
Jefferson's Brewery: brewing suspended indefinitely due to energy crisis (Sept 2022).
Goose Island Brewpub: future of brewery uncertain following change of ownership (Sept 2022).
East Side Brewery: reported closed, October 2022. No further information available.
Parakeet City Brewing: reported closed, November 2022. No further information available.
Canopy Beer Co: permanently closed, December 2022.
Solvay Society: permanently closed, December 2022.
London Beer Factory: relocated outside London, Nov (?) 2022.
Greywood: brewing suspended earlier in 2022.
Little Creatures: brewing suspended, autumn (?) 2022.

New breweries added are:

SALT London.
Werewolf.
Hammersmith Craft Brewery.
Roundwood Project.
Mash Paddle.
BrewDog Waterloo.
Great Beyond.
3 Locks Brewing Co.

The current total number of London breweries on our list as of 27 December 2022 = 119, a reduction of 14 for the year (total was 133 on 1 January 2022).

London brewery statistics 2022

Posted 2022-12-30 02:27:02

We started 2022 with 133 London breweries on our list, and ended it with 119, so a net decrease of 14 for the year. This follows a net decrease of 3 during 2021, so the pace of change is picking up - and going in the wrong direction. We recorded 8 new breweries (a reduction from 14 in 2021) but deleted 22 from our list (the 2021 figure was 17). The number of deletions was not all due to closures - some of those deleted moved out of London or decided to contract brew, so hopefully those companies will continue to brew beer, just not in London. Some others are more accurately described as having suspended brewing, so perhaps they may start up again in future.

The 8 new breweries added were: SALT London, Werewolf, Hammersmith Craft Brewery, Roundwood Project, Mash Paddle, BrewDog Waterloo, Great Beyond and 3 Locks Brewing Co.

The 22 deletions were: Old Kent Road Brewery, Ctzn Brew, Fountain Brewhouse, Weird Beard, People's Park Tavern, Gorgeous Brewery, Enefeld, Sly Beast, Truman's, Three Sods, St Mary's Brewery, Wrong Side of the Tracks, Brewhouse & Kitchen (Islington), Jefferson's Brewery, Goose Island Brewpub, East Side Brewery, Parakeet City Brewing, Canopy Beer Co, Solvay Society, London Beer Factory, Greywood and Little Creatures.

The current list can be found here.

(photo = Werewolf tap room, Camden)

Beer Guide London statistics 2022

Posted 2022-12-30 02:25:19

We started 2022 with 331 Guide entries (this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc.) and we end the year with 312, so a net loss of 19 places.

We added 25 new places (par for the course since 2020, but far below the pre-pandemic average) and 2 places were reinstated, so 27 in total.

Balancing these 27 new places were 46 deletions, by far the most since we started the Guide in 2014. Within this, the number of closures increased dramatically, but so did the number of places whose beer range reduced, meaning they no longer qualify for inclusion in the Guide.

Another indicator of these troubled times is our 'to do' list, which at year end only has 14 places on it. Eleven of these are already open, so there are only 3 in the 'coming soon' section - far below recent levels. The pipeline appears to be drying up, and while I am sure other new places will come to light during 2023, overall it is quite a depressing note on which to end 2022.

(photo = one of the best new entries in the Guide this year, The Bear, Paddington)

Guide entries deleted from Guide 2022

Posted 2022-12-27 06:29:49

Since the start of 2022 we have deleted the following entries from the Guide:

1) Drop Project Tap Room, Mitcham: while the brewery continues as normal, unfortunately the tap room didn't attract sufficient trade to continue its regular opening, so from now on it will only open for occasional special events.

2) Ctzn Brew - The Brewhouse, Twickenham: the de facto tap room for Ctzn Brew, closed late 2021/early 2022, along with the brewery.

3) Holborn Whippet: never reopened after the various lockdowns. Reported as permanently closed Feb 2022.

4) Williams Ale House, Liverpool Street: keg range now mostly macro (March 2022). Still some decent casks but overall the offer is not what it was, so we have removed it from the Guide for now. If the range improves again we will be pleased to reinstate it.

5) The Bluecoats, Tottenham: another pub which started off with a really good list, but which is now less exciting than it once was.

6 - 12) Exmouth Arms, Harrild & Sons, Duke of York, Three Johns, Fountain & Ink, Well & Bucket and Slaughtered Lamb: these seven ex Barworks Guide entries have all been downgraded due to reduced beer range under their new ownership.

13) The Bull, Highgate: brewing equipment removed; pub sold to Greene King.

14) Market Porter, London Bridge; beer range reduced.

15) Mc and Sons, Union St, SE1: beer range reduced.

16) Royal Exchange, Paddington: beer range reduced following another change of ownership.

17) Italian Job at Mercato Metropolitano, Elephant & Castle: beer range reduced.

18) Sebright Arms, Bethnal Green: beer range reduced.

19)Ram Inn, Wandsworth: beer range no longer of interest following the closure of its Sly Beast brewery.

20) George & Dragon, Acton: under new management, beer range now mostly macro.

21) Hiver Tap Room, Bermondsey: beer range permanently reduced following the departure of All Good Beer, who previously shared the premises. Remaining Hiver beers brewed elsewhere.

22) Beer + Burger O2: permanently closed (May 2022).

23) Real Drinks Notting Hill: permanently closed (May 2022)

24) Taproom by Brixton Village; permanently closed (June 2022)

25) Crown & Shuttle, Shoreditch - beer range reduced (June 2022)

26) Italian Job, Hackney Wick - beer range reduced (June 2022)

27) The Mermaid, Clapton - permanently closed (been closed for ages, but confirmed closed for good in June 2022)

28) Watermans Arms, Barnes - permanently closed (June 2022)

29) Pivo, Clerkenwell - reported as 'temporarily' closed, July 2022, but we fear this is a permanent closure.

30) Real Drinks, Twickenham - permanently closed, 23 July 2022.

31) Cat's Back, Wandsworth - reduced beer range (August 2022).

32) The Pigeon, Camberwell - permanently closed, late Aug 2022.

33-35) BrewDog Dalston, BrewDog Old St, BrewDog Smithfield Market Arms - all closed permanently, Sept 2022.

36) The Bolton, Earls Court - permanently closed at end of lease, September 2022.

37) Fugitive Motel, Bethnal Green - permanent closure, September 2022.

38) Goose Island Brewpub, Shoreditch - closed, sold to new owners Urban Pubs, who took on the former Barworks pubs; beer range therefore unlikely to be Guide worthy. September 2022.

39) Mother Kelly's, Stoke Newington - permanently closed, September 2022.

40) People's Park Tavern, Hackney - downgraded due to beer range, October 2022.

41) Hansom Cab, Earls Court - downgraded due to beer range, October 2022.

42) The Raven, Tower Bridge Road, SE1 - downgraded due to beer range following its reopening under new management, November 2022.

43) The White Hart, Whitechapel - downgraded due to beer range following its takeover by new management, November 2022.

44) Beer Shop London, Nunhead - closed permanently due to end of lease, December 2022.

45) Canopy Tap Room, Herne Hill - closed permanently along with brewery, December 2022.

46) Solvay Society Tap Room, Leytonstone - closed permanently along with brewery, December 2022.

We will add any other deletions to this list as and when we become aware of them.

Two new Guide entries: Paddington and Aldgate

Posted 2022-12-27 06:15:45

Our final two new Guide entries of 2022 are in Paddington and Aldgate:

The Bear, Paddington - the new pub from Craft Beer Co;

Aldgate Tap - new sister pub to Euston Tap, etc.

Two new Guide entries: micropubs in LB Croydon + LB Sutton

Posted 2022-11-15 11:09:57

We have two new Guide entries, one in LB Croydon which has been around for a while, The Golden Ark in Selsdon, the other just over the borough boundary in LB Sutton - brand new The Dog House in Beddington. Both are well worth a visit - though unfortunately getting from one to the other on public transport isn't that straightforward despite their relative proximity to each other.

Three new Guide entries in LB Bromley

Posted 2022-10-10 09:46:27

We have three new Guide entries in West Wickham and Hayes (Bromley). Three micropubs, two of which follow the classic micropub formula, and another which doesn't - though all are well worth a visit. They are:

The Real Ale Way, West Wickham

The Real Ale Way, Hayes (Bromley)

Craft Beer Rooms, Hayes (Bromley)

New Guide entries: Bexleyheath & Hither Green

Posted 2022-09-26 11:09:23

We have two new Guide entries, as follows:

The Long Haul, Bexleyheath

Brockley Brewery Hither Green tap

Two new Guide entries: Camden and Paddington

Posted 2022-07-05 09:30:37

Werewolf Beer Tap Room is now open in Camden, close to Camden Road overground station. We've also added Heist Bank in Paddington, pictured below. This place has been open a while - six years, apparently - but we only recently became aware of it thanks to Des De Moor's latest book.

Four new South London Guide entries

Posted 2022-07-01 08:36:52

We have four new Guide entries south of the river, as follows:

The Shirker's Rest - excellent new micropub in New Cross;

Lowline Taproom - taproom in a railway arch for Better World Brewing Co, Elephant/Kennington (pictured below);

Craft Metropolis - second branch of the fantastic bottle shop bar, in Loughborough Junction.

By the Horns @ AFC Wimbledon - the bar in the new-ish AFC Wimbledon stadium. Nearest stations = Haydons Road and Earlsfield.

Two new entries: Hackney Wick and Hackney

Posted 2022-06-29 01:14:58

We have two new Guide entries in Hackney Wick and Hackney:

The Lord Napier Star in Hackney Wick (pictured below) has reopened after a 25 year closure, proving that anything is possible. The beer selection is pretty good too, so we are pleased to have it in the Guide.

Five Points Tap Room is more of an updated entry than a brand new one, there having been an outdoor tap room at their Mare Street brewery during warmer months in years gone by. The tap room is now inside the brewery, and is also now open on a permanent basis.

Four new Guide entries in Leytonstone

Posted 2022-06-28 01:18:08

There are four new Guide entries in Leytonstone. All are well worth visiting in their own right, but taken together they form a pretty good crawl.

Going roughly north to south along Leytonstone High Road they are: North Star, The Birds, Mammoth Tap Room and Filly Brook (pictured below).

Add in Solvay Society's tap room (located between Mammoth and Filly Brook) and it is clear that the Leytonstone Beer Mile has truly arrived.

New Guide entry: Beavertown Corner Pin, Tottenham

Posted 2022-03-19 03:35:13

Beavertown's new pub directly opposite the impressive Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is included in the Guide largely because it provides a good opportunity to try a beer brewed in the stadium directly opposite.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Salt Beer London

Posted 2022-02-15 11:06:38

Salt Beer London are more or less up and running in the former Hop Stuff Brewery, so we've added them to our list. The first brews should hit the market soon.

Along with two deletions - Ctzn Brew and Fountain Brewhouse - this means the new total of London breweries on our list is 131.

New Des de Moor book: 'London's Best Beer Pubs and Bars' (3rd edition)

Posted 2022-01-06 09:22:07

Des de Moor is back with the third edition of his superb book, London's Best Beer Pubs and Bars. The first edition, published in 2011, celebrated the fact that we then had 13 breweries in London. The new edition lists over 130, so the three editions cover a period which has seen explosive growth of the brewing industry in the capital.

The book features the usual listings by area, with breweries listed by default, and pubs as either main entries or 'try also' recommendations. Researching the pubs and bars was particularly challenging this time, as the main research was carried out pre-pandemic. Publication was then delayed as things locked down, eventually being rescheduled for late 2021. By this time of course there had been significant change, with many places closing and new ones opening, and details such as opening hours, beer ranges, etc., changing numerous times as we went through the various stages of the pandemic. Knowing how hard it is to keep a beer guide up to date, I can only congratulate Des on his achievement of navigating his way through this ever changing scenario.

The book also contains numerous articles on the history of pubs, beer and brewing in London. My highlight within these is the story of brewing in Wandsworth, tracing the history of the former Young's site through to the current day, noting and celebrating the huge contribution from Ram Brewery's John Hatch along the way.

As ever, the book comes highly recommended. It can be purchased from CAMRA books, here.

More Beer Guide London statistics: the Guide in 2021

Posted 2021-12-30 08:01:07

We started 2021 (and, for that matter, 2020) with 323 Guide entries (this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc.) and we end the year with 331. After adding just 25 places in 2020, this year we were able to get out and about a bit more, adding 39 new places (not bad considering the first of these wasn’t added until the last week of May).

Balancing the 39 new entries were 31 deletions, and while many of these are closures due to the pandemic, this is not the case for them all. Regular housekeeping means some places were deleted as they no longer met the grade.

Of the 331 current Guide entries:

70 survive from pre-2014 when we put the Guide on line;

new entries from 2014 which survive total 21;

from 2015 there are 20;

from 2016 there are 19;

from 2017 there are 22;

from 2018 there are 61;

from 2019 there are 59,

from 2020 there are 20;

and there were 39 new entries in 2020 which have made it to the year end. In all, 79% of all current Guide entries are new since January 2014, though the pace of change has slowed for obvious reasons during 2020 and 2021.

Some other stats: 71 Guide entries are brewery taps (at the start of 2021 there were 64); 41 are bottle shop bars (at the start of the year also 41), and 20 are brewpubs (down from 21 at the start of 2021). Combined, the 132 places in these three categories represent 40% of all Guide entries, which is hugely significant given the combined total across all three categories when we started the Guide eight years ago was just 15. Finally, of the 41 bottle shop bars in the Guide, precisely none of them were open when we started the Guide at the start of 2014.

(photo = Pivo, Clerkenwell)

London brewery statistics 2021

Posted 2021-12-30 04:14:37

We started 2021 with 136 London breweries on our list, and ended it with 133, so a net decrease of 3 for the year. We recorded 14 new breweries but deleted 17 from our list. The number of deletions perhaps sounds worse than it is in reality - a number of those deleted may well resume brewing in future, and so could perhaps be more accurately described as 'suspended' rather than 'closed completely'.

More positive news is the number of new openings, which remains suprisingly strong given the ongoing pandemic.

The 14 new breweries added were: Dog’s Grandad, Mammoth, Drop Project, Friendship Adventure, Br3wery, Mellors, St Felix Place, East Side, Parakeet City, Macintosh, Oddly, Workshy, Brew By Numbers Greenwich, and Forest Road.

The 17 deletions were: Anspach & Hobday Bermondsey, Short Stack, Mechanic, Watling Street, Hop Stuff, Marko Paulo, Crate, Black Horse Barnet, London Fields, Earth, Essex Street, Ricardo’s/Eel Pie, Ram, Tiny Vessel, Moncada, By the Horns and Volden.

The current list can be found here.

(photo = Drop Project, Mitcham)

Changes to London brewery list

Posted 2021-12-29 09:56:37

We have made several updates to our list of London breweries, as follows:

Additions: Workshy (Richmond); Brew By Numbers (pilot kit retained in Bermondsey following move of most production to Greenwich).

Deletions: Ricardo's (Twickenham); Ram Brewery (Wandsworth); Tiny Vessel (Hampton - brewing suspended but should resume later); Volden (ditto - brewing should resume in due course); Moncada (closed): By the Horns (all production now moved outside London).

These changes bring the number of breweries on our list to 133. Full list here.

Three deletions from/one addition to London brewery list

Posted 2021-12-12 08:41:55

We've added Mellors Brewing back onto our list, as they've returned from Suffolk to London, however we have also deleted three breweries (plus their tap rooms) for various reasons, as follows:

London Fields Brewery: tap room closed, brewing ceased, and the whole operation is up for sale;

Earth Ale: is moving out of London, along with their quirky tap room in a double decker bus (pictured below);

Essex Street Brewery (and Temple Brew House): hasn't reopened since the pandemic. We will add them back onto our list if and when it reopens and brewing restarts.

These changes mean the total number of breweries on our list is currently 137. Full list here.

Deletion from Guide: Old Street Brewery taproom, Bethnal Green

Posted 2021-12-12 08:21:55

Old Street Brewery moved the brewing operation to Hackney Wick earlier this year, opening a new tap room at the new brewery. However, they retained their original Bethnal Green site as a second tap room.

Unfortunately the Bethnal Green site has now closed permanently - we understand after a hefty rent increase was proposed - so we have deleted it from the Guide.

Brewing - and the new tap room - continues in Hackney Wick.

New Guide entry: Barrel and Horn, Bromley

Posted 2021-12-06 09:41:58

This one should probably have been in the Guide a while ago, but now goes in following a recent revisit by Steve.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletions from London brewery list

Posted 2021-11-29 09:30:13

We've deleted Black Horse Barnet and Crate Brewing from our list of London breweries. The former was reported in London Drinker as having ceased production, and the latter we understand now brews its beers outside London.

The total number of breweries on our London list falls to 139.

Two new Guide entries: Strawberry Hill and Teddington

Posted 2021-11-29 09:18:43

It's not often that I get to walk between two potential new Guide entries, but that's what I was able to do on Saturday. Starting at Strawberry Hill station, it's a five minute walk to new Jawbone Brewing Tap Room. From there, it's a little under 15 minutes' walk over to Teddington for the new Big Smoke pub, The Abercorn Arms.

It's great to get both of these new places into the Guide, but even better, once you're at The Abercorn, you're just round the corner from long time Guide entry The Masons Arms. You'll not be surprised to hear that we also revisited this lovely pub on Saturday while we were in the area, and I am pleased to confirm it's as good as ever.

New Guide entry: No Boring Beer, Battersea

Posted 2021-10-31 07:42:55

A rather smart new bottle shop bar has just opened on Lavender Hill, Battersea, and even newer is its tasting room, which is now open for on site drinking.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new Guide entries in Greenwich

Posted 2021-10-31 06:00:50

We have two new entries in Greenwich, both brewery taps:

Brew By Numbers, at their new brewery in Morden Wharf: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.491

Meantime Tasting Rooms: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.490

Add in River Ale House and Beer & Burger at the O2, and you've got a pretty good crawl with four quite contrasting places to visit, and lots of excellent beer.

Deletions from the Guide since the start of the pandemic

Posted 2021-10-31 05:44:38

List of Guide entries which have permanently closed since the start of the pandemic - note that not all of them will have closed specifically due to the pandemic, the closures might have been for a number of reasons:

Craftndraft, Hackney Road, E2
Taproom by Bethnal Green, E2
Greenwich Union, SE10
Beer Hawk, Farringdon
Belgo Holborn
Old Red Cow, Farringdon
London Beer House, West End
Mother Kelly's, E9
Welcome to the Forest Bar, E17
Taproom N1, Islington
Craft Beer Co, Angel (closure not necessarily pandemic related)
Craft Beer Co, Old Street
Essex House, Angel
The Trafalgar, South Wimbledon
London Calling Sweden, Bermondsey
The Italian Job, Notting Hill
Grin & Beer It, Highbury
Octoberfest Pub, Parsons Green
Taps and Tapas, Tooting Bec
Five Miles, Seven Sisters
Hack and Hop, EC4
Old Suffolk Punch, Hammersmith
Brew By Numbers Peckham Tap Room

New Guide entry: Bexley Brewery, Erith, Kent

Posted 2021-10-28 11:25:58

This one sets two new records: it's the Guide entry furthest away from where I live, plus it's the entry with the shortest opening hours (Sat 12-2). Still, it's well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Anspach & Hobday, Croydon Taproom

Posted 2021-09-23 07:29:18

Anspach & Hobday's Croydon Taproom will no longer be open every week, instead opening only for special events. While they hope to have these events quite regularly, the lack of weekly opening means it no longer meets our criteria for inclusion in the Guide, hence we have deleted it. Hopefully weekly opening will resume again in the future, in which case it will go straight back into the Guide.

New Guide entry: The Cockpit, Chistlehurst

Posted 2021-09-22 09:52:46

This charming micropub shares its space with a florist shop at the front. We were very impressed with the beer quality when we visited and look forward to another visit in the future.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletions from brewery list: Marko Paulo & Mellor's Brewing

Posted 2021-09-16 08:42:52

Mellor's Brewing have completed their relocation to Suffolk, and no longer brew in London, so we have deleted them from our list of London breweries.

Brewing at the Owl & Pussycat in Northfields under the Marko Paulo banner has ceased, with beers for the pub being supplied by Ealing Brewing - the larger brewery under the same ownership. We are not sure if this is arrangement is permanent, so if brewing recommences at the O & P we will reinstate Marko Paulo onto our list.

These changes reduce the number of London breweries on our list to 141:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries in Walthamstow & Leyton

Posted 2021-09-14 09:28:16

We have three new Guide entries in E17 and E10. These form a decent mini crawl in their own right, but when you take into account the other options nearby, you will see they are yet more great additions to an increasingly beery part of London. The three are:

Beer & Burger, E17 - a brief walk down Hoe Street from Walthamstow Central. A short bus ride takes you from Beer + Burger to Leyton Midland Road station, where you can find:

Gravity Well Tap Room, E10 - from here, a five minute journey on the overground takes you to Blackhorse Road, where you're a short walk from six breweries just off Blackhorse Lane. The newest is:

Beerblefish Tap Room, E17 - and when you make it to Beerblefish, you're less than 100m from Exale Tap Room, and it would be rude to be so near and not visit!

Deletions from Guide: Cronx Bar, Croydon & Queen's Arms, Kensington

Posted 2021-09-12 06:29:31

Cronx Bar in Croydon's Boxpark has closed so we have deleted it from the Guide.

We've also deleted Queen's Arms in Kensington due to its beer range having reduced considerably. Hopefully this might be temporary and we will keep it under review.

Deletion from Guide: Red Lion, Leytonstone

Posted 2021-09-05 06:38:58

We have received reports that the beer range at the previously excellent Antic pub, the Red Lion in Leytonstone, has been greatly reduced, so we have deleted it from the Guide. Hopefully the range may improve again in the future, in which case we will be happy to reinstate it.

Italian Job, Tooting now an ORA Brewing pop up

Posted 2021-09-05 06:35:07

The Italian Job in Broadway Market, Tooting, has closed and been replaced by a temporary pop up run by ORA Brewing. They are at Unit 72 in Broadway Market for about a month from 24 August 2021, possibly longer if it goes well.

We've updated the former Italian Job Guide entry to reflect these changes.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Magdala, Hampstead

Posted 2021-08-23 09:54:53

This is the latest pub from the people behind the Sussex Arms, Express Tavern, etc. It's a really lovely and very sympathetic refurbishment of an old historic pub, retaining many of its original features.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Drop Project Tap Room, Mitcham

Posted 2021-08-23 09:50:37

Drop Project's brewery is perhaps not one you might pass at random, but it's worth making a special journey. On an industrial estate about 10 minutes' walk from Mitcham Junction station and tram stop, it offers around six draft beers, some from Drop Project and others well chosen guests.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Brewery list updates: five additions, four deletions

Posted 2021-08-07 08:07:06

We've updated our brewery list with five additions:

St Felix Place, Southwark Street SE1

East Side Brewery, Harold Wood

Parakeet City Brewing, Ealing

Macintosh Ales, Stamford Brook

Oddly Beer, Friern Barnet

There have also been four deletions from our list. Note, some of these may return in the future, but our understanding is that all have currently stopped brewing, for the moment at least. If and when brewing restarts we will put them back on our list:

Short Stack (Cock Tavern), Hackney

Mechanic Brewery, Bethnal Green

Watling Street Beer, N17

Hop Stuff Brewery, Woolwich

After these changes, the number of London breweries on our list rises to 143:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Sambrook's Taproom, Wandsworth

Posted 2021-07-28 09:00:53

Sambrook's Brewery have relocated from Battersea to Wandsworth, taking up residence in the new Ram Quarter development - the historic site of the former Young's Brewery. As it's all new build, the taproom is very modern and shiny - and the pizza, from Crust Bros, is excellent.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Orbit Beers Taproom, SE17

Posted 2021-07-28 08:51:21

Orbit's new tap room is now open, just over the road from the brewery in a separate railway arch (No 233). As a dedicated space it's much larger than their previous tap room at the actual brewery, and it benefits from substantial outdoor space as well.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Mellors Brewing, Harringay

Posted 2021-07-24 06:47:12

Just started this summer in a garden shed in Harringay, Mellors Brewing is a nano brewery which intends to expand production and move out of London to a new brewhouse in rural Suffolk, over the next year. For now though, they brew in London so we have added them to our list.

Their beers can be found in Stroud Green Farmers' Market on the third Sunday of each month.

The total number of London breweries is now 142: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Two new Guide entries: Brixton and Loughborough Junction

Posted 2021-07-01 11:00:18

We have two new brewery taps in the Guide, in and around Brixton:

Dogs Grandad Taproom: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.479

Then a short walk away, down to Loughborough Junction, you will find:

Friendship Adventure Brewery Tap (entrance pictured below, to the left): https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.482

New Guide entry: Br3wery taproom, Beckenham, BR3

Posted 2021-07-01 09:03:30

Br3wery's new tap room is now open for onsite drinking. It's a lovely space too, and a great opportunity to drink your beer right next to the immaculate brewing equipment. It's just up the road from the new Three Hounds taproom, making for an excellent double header.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Archway Tavern, N19

Posted 2021-07-01 08:26:01

The Archway Tavern is back open with a new focus on smaller north London breweries. It's a fine pub in an imposing building right opposite Archway tube station.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Royal Exchange, W2

Posted 2021-06-28 08:47:03

The Royal Exchange is a newly refurbished pub under new management, located between Edgware Rd & Paddington but closer to the former. A good place to find Five Points and other London brewed beers.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries: Hackney Wick, Hackney Central & Dalston

Posted 2021-06-22 11:33:12

We have three new Guide entries in E8 and E9, as follows:

Old Street Tap Room, Hackney Wick: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.475 - the brewery has moved from Bethnal Green to the unit opposite Howling Hops (and very close to Crate). This is their new tap room (though they've retained Bethnal Green for an expanded tap room there too).

Hackney Tap, opposite Hackney Central station: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.476 - the newest London pub from the people behind the Euston Tap and its siblings.

Kraft Dalston: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.477 - the third London brewpub from German Kraft brewery.

Deletion from Guide: Italian Job, Notting Hill

Posted 2021-06-21 06:44:27

News reached us yesterday that the Italian Job in Notting Hill has permanently closed. We do not know the specifc reason for the closure but we have noted of late the significant reduction in the number of Italian beers at their other branches. If you have any further information on this closure please do let us know.

New Guide entry: The Telegraph, Putney Heath

Posted 2021-06-16 11:27:57

The Telegraph has been around for ages, but after being closed for some time it's back - now under new ownership and after a major refurbishment. We had a great time there on our first visit since it reopened, and enjoyed both beer and food. We are delighted to have it in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Prince of Wales Townhouse, Hammersmith

Posted 2021-06-16 11:25:30

The latest new pub from Big Smoke Brew Co is now open in Hammersmith, close to Ravenscourt Park tube station. In common with their other pubs, it's rather good.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog Ealing

Posted 2021-06-16 11:23:03

BrewDog have opened another new London bar, this time in a modern development in Ealing.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries in Bermondsey

Posted 2021-06-16 10:01:43

We have three new Guide entries in Bermondsey. Going south to north they are:

Three Hills 'The Outpost': https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.468 - new tap room for the brewery which started out in Northampton, in the former Affinity space on Almond Road.

Craft Beer Junction: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.469 - new beer bar in a railway arch on Enid Street, almost next door to Bianca Road Tap Room.

Billy Franks Craft Beer & Snack Shack: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.470 - new bar on Druid Street, close to Anspach & Hobday.

All three are well worth a visit and we're pleased to have them all in the Guide.

New Guide entry: Distortion Brewery Taproom, Battersea

Posted 2021-06-16 08:59:23

Distortion Brewery Taproom is now up and running in a railway arch in Battersea, roughly half way between Vauxhall and Clapham Junction (and very near Wandsworth Road Overground station). We enjoyed our first visit and it is now in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Fountain Tap, Shoreditch

Posted 2021-06-16 08:57:28

Located a short walk from Old Street station, this new Shoreditch bar is a sister to the long established Old Fountain, which is at the other side of Old Street station. It's a lovely place with a well chosen range of up to 12 keg beers and we are pleased to recommend it in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Pivo, Clerkenwell

Posted 2021-06-16 08:54:45

A new specialist Czech beer bar has just opened in Clerkenwell, handily located just round the corner from the Sutton Arms. It's a very impressive place, providing a showcase for mainly smaller Czech breweries. We really enjoyed our first visit and have designated it a Guide 'top pick' given its excellent beer range.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Italian Job, Chiswick

Posted 2021-06-11 02:50:40

Unfortunately the beer range at the Italian Job, Chiswick, has been seriously diminished. On a June 2021 revisit we found no Italian beers at all, and just five UK drafts plus a handful of cans/bottles (see photo).

This is very disappointing as this place was nothing short of outstanding when it opened, featuring a stellar range of Italian beers on draft and in bottles from the owners Del Ducato and other fantastic Italian breweries.

We are trying to establish if the same thing has happened at the other three branches, though on recent visits they have had better Italian ranges so I hope all is not lost.

If and when the beer range improves we will be pleased to put this once excellent place back in the Guide.

Deletion from brewery list: Anspach & Hobday, Bermondsey

Posted 2021-06-07 11:12:57

All Anspach & Hobday brewing now takes place in Croydon, with Bermondsey being retained for (a) the tap room, and (b) to store fermenters and barrels for mixed fermentation and barrel ageing, with wort shipped up from the deep south (i.e. Croydon).

We originally understood that actual brewing would continue in some form in Bermondsey, but with this clarification it needs to come off our list.

London's brewery total falls to 141, with the full list here: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Baladin Camden, Camden Market

Posted 2021-06-04 08:21:30

Leading Italian brewery Baladin have opened their first UK bar, in Camden Market, and we are pleased to have visited and to have it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries in & around Blackhorse Lane, Walthamstow

Posted 2021-06-04 08:19:23

The Blackhorse Lane crawl has expanded further with the addition of two new brewery taps in the industrial estates right on the Lane itself, and the re-opening of a pub in nearby Higham Hill. They are all now in the Guide, and they are:

Truman's Social Club: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.462

High Hill (Hackney Brewery Tap): https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.463 (pictured below)

The Tavern on the Hill: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.464

New brewery added to list: Br3wery, Beckenham

Posted 2021-06-01 11:37:39

Br3wery have now started brewing at their new brewery in Beckenham, located by Kent House station bus stop and Beckenham Road tram stop.

Their tap room is also open, as follows: Tue–Fri 4pm – 8pm, Sat 2pm – 8pm, Sun 2pm – 6pm. Closed Monday. We hope to visit soon and will post more details in due course, but we understand there are already a couple of their beers available alongside guests from other local breweries.

They become the 142nd brewery on our London list, but there is the usual pandemic related warning around numbers, as we fear one or two of the smaller breweries may have stopped. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Clapton Craft (Wood St Depot)

Posted 2021-06-01 11:13:51

The newest branch of Clapton Craft is now open very close to Wood St Station, just one stop north of Walthamstow Central on the Overground. It's their third location offering on site drinking, and easily the largest of the three. Visually stunning fridges form the centrepiece and the beer range is excellent.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Stag & Lantern, Highams Park, E4

Posted 2021-06-01 09:21:56

This welcoming micropub provides a handy extension to the ever expanding Walthamstow crawl, being located just two stops north of Walthamstow Central on the Overground. It opened during the first lockdown and has had to operate as a bottle shop only for much of its first year, so it was great to finally visit now they're back open properly.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Ctzn Brew 'The Brewhouse', Twickenham

Posted 2021-05-24 10:56:43

We finally have our first new Guide entry of 2021, and indeed our first since August 2020! The honour goes to Ctzn Brew 'The Brewhouse' in Twickenham - the new de facto brewery tap for the newly rebranded SW London brewery, which used to be known as Kew Brewery.

We enjoyed our first visit and really enjoyed the beers - the range was interesting and the beers well executed. They are on soft opening now but should be fully up and running over coming weeks.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Friendship Adventure, Loughborough Junction SW9

Posted 2021-05-12 09:04:18

Friendship Adventure have now started brewing at their new brewery in Loughborough Junction, SW9, and a tap room will be opening from 21 May.

They become the 141st brewery on our London list, though as ever please bear in mind that some smaller breweries may not have survived the pandemic. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Drop Project, Mitcham

Posted 2021-04-19 09:51:11

Drop Project are now brewing at their new home in Mitcham, becoming the 140th brewery on our London list (though please note our usual pandemic related warning on these numbers - we fear that some of the smaller breweries may not survive). The tap room is due to open some time in summer 2021, all being well, and we look forward to visiting.

The full list of London breweries can be found here: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Kew Brewery rebrands as Citizen Brew

Posted 2021-03-27 01:12:46

Kew Brewery have rebranded and are now called Citizen Brew. They are planning to open a bar/restaurant on York Street, Twickenham (in what was previously 'Crafty Winger'), which is rather confusingly referred to on their website as 'The Brewhouse', but as far as we can tell there will be no brewing on site.

Brewing will, it seems, continue in the previous Kew Brewery location in East Sheen.

Further information can be found on their website: http://ctznbrew.com/

Two new breweries added: Dog's Grandad and Mammoth Beer

Posted 2021-03-15 09:49:11

I am pleased to report two new breweries, which I've added to the list today, bringing the current London total to 139*. They are Dog's Grandad in Brixton and Mammoth Beer in Hackney Wick. Dog's Grandad is on Brixton Station Road, and a tap room is planned when permitted.

The full list of current London breweries can be found here:

www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

*the current total comes with the usual pandemic related health warning, as we expect some breweries may not survive.

London breweries doing online sales and/or local deliveries

Posted 2021-02-21 06:41:34

Updated 21 February 2021: this list shows how you can support our fantastic independent London breweries by buying their beer online or via local deliveries. Remember, supermarkets don't need any more support during lockdown - please support your local brewery instead.

On this list, we do not include breweries who are wholly or partly owned by much larger, multinational beer companies.

New brewery added to list: Forest Road Brewing Co, South Bermondsey

Posted 2021-02-18 04:49:36

Forest Road are brewing at their new brewery in South Bermondsey, so we have added them to our list as the 137th current brewery in London. This figure comes with the usual Covid-related health warning, as some of the breweries on the list might not survive the pandemic.

More Beer Guide London statistics: the Guide in 2020

Posted 2021-01-02 04:55:06

We started 2020 with 323 Guide entries (this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc) and, rather bizarrely, we end the year with 323. Not surprisingly, this year saw a sharp reduction in the number of new places added to the Guide: from a record total of 80 in 2019, in 2020 we added just 25. Only four of those 25 were added after mid March.

Balancing the 25 new entries were 25 deletions, and while many of these are due to the pandemic, this is not the case for them all. Regular housekeeping means some places were deleted as they no longer met the grade. However, 12 deletions were pre March lockdown, and 13 have happened since, and all but one of the 13 were due to business closures.

Of the 323 current Guide entries:

74 survive from pre-2014 when we put the Guide on line;
new entries from 2014 which survive total 22;
from 2015 there are 22;
from 2016 there are 20;
from 2017 there are 26;
from 2018 there are 65;
from 2019 there are 69,
and there were 25 new entries in 2020 which have made it to the year end. (NB: for the purposes of this report, all current temporary pandemic related closures have been ignored.)

In all, 77% of all current Guide entries are new since January 2014, though the pace of change has slowed for obvious reasons during 2020.

Some other stats: 64 Guide entries are brewery taps (at the start of 2020 there were 67); 41 are bottle shop bars (at the start of the year 45), and 21 are brewpubs (up from 18 at the start of 2020). Combined, the 126 places in these three categories represent 39% of all Guide entries, which is hugely significant given the combined total across all three categories when we started the Guide six years ago was just 15 (and of those 15, three are pubs now counted as brewpubs, but they didn’t brew at that time). Finally, of the 41 bottle shop bars in the Guide, precisely none of them were open when we started the Guide at the start of 2014.

London brewery statistics 2020

Posted 2021-01-02 04:15:48

We started 2020 with 126 London breweries on our list, and ended it with 136, so a net increase of 10 for the year. We recorded 12 new breweries - including a late flurry of new openings - and just two closures so far (though there are three or four others we are not sure about - they may have closed but we are checking for more information before deleting them). In the circumstances, this is quite an impressive number of new breweries, and we note with some relief the relatively small number which have closed.

The 12 new breweries are: Fearless Nomad; Mikkeller Brewpub; Beavertown Enfield; Outpost (Three Hills); Jawbone; Distortion; Anspach & Hobday Croydon; Concrete Island; German Kraft Mayfair; German Kraft Dalston; Marlix and Werewolf.

The two deleted were Four Thieves, Battersea (brewing stopped but the pub remains open, subject to current restrictions) and Reunion Ales in Feltham.

The current list can be found here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Werewolf Beer

Posted 2021-01-02 04:00:55

Werewolf Beer have now started brewing, on a small test kit based in the Rose & Crown, Kentish Town, where you should normally be able to find their beer. While the pub remains closed for on site drinking due to the current restrictions, they are open for off sales including growler fills of the Werewolf beers.

In due course Werewolf plan to move to a larger brewery, so watch this space for further information.

Brewing started in December so we will count Werewolf as the last new addition to our list of 2020, bringing the year end total to 136.

New brewery added to list: Marlix Brewery, Bromley

Posted 2020-12-29 08:55:09

Marlix Brewery is a tiny nanobrewery based in a purpose built garden shed in Petts Wood. With a 120L brew length production is necessarily tiny for now, but they aim to supply cask and keg beer for local pubs. You can sometimes find their beers at One Inn the Wood, Petts Wood.

We've added them to our list as the 135th brewery in London, though the list has the usual warning about its accuracy given the current circumstances.

Two new breweries added: German Kraft Mayfair & Dalston

Posted 2020-12-14 06:04:34

German Kraft have now started brewing in two additional locations - at Mercato Mayfair, where they've had a bar for some time - and at a new site in Dalston. Both have been added to our list of London breweries, which now totals 134, though the usual health warning is attached to that total given current circumstances.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Anspach & Hobday, Bermondsey

Posted 2020-12-13 03:38:19

Brewing has re-started at Anspach & Hobday's original home in Bermondsey. This location will be home to their mixed ferm programme so expect some pretty special beers to emerge in due course. They become the 132nd brewery on our London list, but the usual health warning applies to this total given all the current uncertainty.

New brewery added to list: Distortion Brewing, Battersea

Posted 2020-12-13 03:34:04

Distortion Brewing have now started brewing in Battersea so we've added them to our list as the 131st brewery in London - though the usual health warning applies to this total given current circumstances.

New brewery added to list: Jawbone Brewing, Twickenham

Posted 2020-12-12 02:47:35

Jawbone have now started brewing so we've added them to our list, as the 130th London brewery (though this figure comes with a health warning given current circumstances - we have yet to double check that some of the smaller breweries have survived). The tap room is scheduled to open in due course.

The full list can be found here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries.php

Reinstatement on brewery list: Crate Brewery

Posted 2020-10-20 04:50:21

This is an update to our news item on 10 October, which reported that Crate had stopped brewing.

The situation is complex, but it seems that there were two separate companies, one for brewing and one for the bar business. Both hit financial trouble, and the brewing company went into administration. Truman's, needing a new site due to delays with their new brewery, are currently brewing in Crate's old brewing space.

The bar company has done a deal with creditors and continues in business. We further understand that brewing has now recommenced under the Crate name, but for now this is small scale only, at the bar (in the White Building).

This counts as an additional London brewery so we have added them back on to our list of London breweries, bringing the total up to 129. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Crate Brewery

Posted 2020-10-20 04:48:51

***Please see update to this item on 20 October 2020.

Crate Brewery appears to have stopped brewing on site at their Hackney Wick place. We understand that Truman's have moved in, and that Crate the pizza and beer place continues.

The total number of breweries in London falls to 127. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: The Outpost (Three Hills), Bermondsey

Posted 2020-10-16 07:56:51

I understand that Three Hills Brewing have taken on the former Affinity site in Bermondsey, while retaining their original location in Northants.

Brewing has now commenced and at least five beers are already out in the wild, including some on cask.

I further understand that a tap room is planned, but I don't know when it will open. Reports welcome.

The total number of London breweries on our list increases to 128:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: Reunion Ales, Feltham

Posted 2020-10-04 06:44:41

We understand that Reunion Ales, Feltham, has gone into administration, and so we have deleted them from our list of London breweries. The total number of breweries on our list currently stands at 128. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: The Italian Job, Tooting

Posted 2020-09-06 10:43:25

The Italian Job have opened a new branch in Tooting since the shutdown. It's a tiny venue in Broadway Market, with four draft beers, and while not as beery as their other branches it's worth a place in the Guide given its proximity to Craft Tooting and We Brought Beer.

We'd love to see some more Italian beers on the bar and we understand the number may increase in due course as supply issues ease as things reopen.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Art & Craft, Croydon

Posted 2020-09-06 10:40:23

Art & Craft are a small chain of bottle shop bars, who at various times have had two branches in Streatham and one in West Norwood, along with this one in the centre of Croydon.

One of the Streatham branches has, however, now closed down, along with the shop in West Norwood. This is a shame because both were rather good.

The Croydon branch is more bar than bottle shop, and we feel its beer range has improved of late, warranting a place in the Guide.

Thanks to Stephen Jackson for the photos.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Beavertown Brewery (Enfield)

Posted 2020-09-01 09:24:01

We understand that Beavertown have started brewing at their new brewery in Enfield. As brewing will continue in Tottenham Hale (and indeed at their third brewery in the Tottenham stadium) this counts as an additional London brewery.

This brings the total number of London breweries on our list to 129 - though we have yet to do a full review to check all these have (so far) survived the pandemic. Full list here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Signal Brewery tap room, Croydon

Posted 2020-08-31 06:24:02

Signal Brewery have opened a tap room. Conveniently, this is located next door to the new Anspach & Hobday tap room, near Therapia Lane tram stop, making for a very good double header.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

London pubs/bars/taprooms open for takeaway beer, etc

Posted 2020-08-04 01:09:15

Updated 4 August 2020: with pubs, bars and taprooms starting to reopen this list is no longer being updated. Please check directly with each venue to check if they are now open again, and if reservations are required, etc. While this list is no longer being updated, some of the places listed below still offer beer to take away. Again, please check with each venue.

London bottle shops doing online sales and/or local deliveries

Posted 2020-08-04 01:08:22

Updated 4 August 2020: as many places are now reopening this list is no longer being updated on a regular basis. However, many of the London bottle shops listed below will continue to offer either takeaway beer and/or online sales, so if you're not yet ready to return to the pub, why not check out and support the places listed below instead?

New brewery added to list: Mikkeller Brewpub, Exmouth Market

Posted 2020-06-21 06:23:31

Brewing has now commenced at the Mikkeller bar on Exmouth Market. We look forward to trying their beers once the shutdown ends. They become the 128th London brewery on our list:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

How to support London's breweries, bottle shops, pubs and bars

Posted 2020-05-29 08:01:23

THIS LIST IS NO LONGER BEING UPDATED, BUT IT WAS ACCURATE UP TO AND INCLUDING 28 MAY 2020. WE HAVE NOW SEPARATED THE LIST INTO THREE SECTIONS, FOR BREWERIES, BOTTLE SHOPS, AND BARS/PUBS/TAPROOMS. FROM NOW ON, WE ARE ONLY INCLUDING PLACES WHICH ARE CURRENTLY LISTED IN OUR MAIN GUIDE. THANK YOU FOR ALL THE SUPPORT FOR THIS LIST OVER THE LAST TWO MONTHS.

This resource shows where you can buy beer and continue to support some of our fantastic London beer businesses and help them get through this unprecedented time. Hopefully the list will help you support a local business rather than a huge supermarket.

We include a number of breweries who are part of much larger, multinational beer companies. You may wish to prioritise your spend accordingly and support smaller independent breweries instead, but the breweries concerned (Beavertown, Brixton, Camden, Fourpure and Fullers) are an important part of London's beer scene, and we list the information for completeness, rather than as a particular recommendation to buy their beer.

London breweries offering online sales:

Bottle shops offering online sales:

Pubs, bars or tap rooms offering deliveries, takeaway beer and/or incentives such as vouchers for future use once they re-open:

Not quite London, but nearby friends of the Guide who are also offering online sales/delivery services:

Three deletions from Guide: Paddington, New Malden and Islington

Posted 2020-03-09 12:34:01

We are continually reviewing our Guide entries to ensure our standards remain high. To that end, we have deleted three places which have all been in the Guide for some time:

The Victoria, Paddington: this is a wonderful pub, with some good beer, but only a relatively standard Fullers offer. Given how many other excellent Fullers pubs there now are, many with a much wider range of beer, we can no longer justify keeping it in the Guide.

Woodies, New Malden: one of the quirkier places in the Guide, for years it's had - and continues to have - a number of decent cask beers, served in good condition. However, it's long since been overtaken by many new places, and doesn't have enough breadth or excitement in its beer range to keep it in the Guide.

Pig and Butcher, Islington: their bottled range was keeping it in the Guide, but this has recently been reduced quite considerably, according to their website, so we have deleted it from the Guide.

New Guide entry: Anspach & Hobday, Croydon

Posted 2020-03-08 07:34:50

Anspach & Hobday's new, much bigger brewery is up and running, and the tap room is now open Saturdays 12-6. The beer is excellent, of course, and while a pretty standard industrial estate experience, it is nevertheless another good place to drink good beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bethnal Green Tavern, E2

Posted 2020-03-08 07:31:44

Graceland are rapidly becoming one of the best pub groups in London, with several really good places already, most with excellent beer lists. Their latest pub is not far from their long established Kings Arms, E2, but is much closer to Bethnal Green tube station on the Central Line. It's another very high quality place and we are pleased to have it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Tap In, Elephant and Castle

Posted 2020-02-21 09:52:15

We like to keep on top of new openings here at Beer Guide London, but this one passed us by, as we think it's been open for some time. Anyway, better late than never, Tap In is now in the Guide following a very enjoyable first visit a couple of days ago. It's a sports bar, but don't let that put you off as it's got a very good beer range and is a comfortable place to enjoy good beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Addition to brewery list: Greenwich Brewery

Posted 2020-02-21 00:41:20

Brewing has recommenced at Greenwich Brewery, in the Up the Creek comedy club near the centre of Greenwich. We've therefore added them back onto our list of London breweries, bringing the total back up to 126:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

We understand that you can access the bar without going to the comedy club, but we have yet to test this - or these hours - out: Wed-Fri from 5; Sat-Sun from 1pm. If you visit, please report back on beer range and opening hours. We will visit soon to do our own check.

Many thanks to Des de Moor for the above information.

New Guide entry: Farringdon Tap, EC4

Posted 2020-02-21 00:33:30

The latest pub from Bloomsbury Leisure is now open, on Farringdon Street right under Holborn Viaduct. It has many of the classic features associated with this group of pubs, including some rather good beers at excellent prices.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Four Thieves, Clapham Junction

Posted 2020-02-18 11:35:49

Thanks to Des de Moor for reporting the news that the brewing equipment has been removed from the Four Thieves in Clapham Junction - part of the Laine's empire. Apparently 'exciting things' are planned for the space in which the brewery was previously located, but I'd have been more excited had the brewery remained in place.

The total number of breweries on our list falls to 125:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Temporary deletion from Guide; Mikkeller Pop Up, Exmouth Market

Posted 2020-02-16 23:56:57

The Mikkeller Pop Up bar on Exmouth Market has now closed for its refurbishment, pending its reopening as a brew pub in the spring. We don't yet have a date for the reopening but I think the work will take a couple of months, so perhaps April?

We will reinstate and update the Guide entry once it reopens.

Deletion from Guide: Kew Brewery Brewhouse

Posted 2020-02-16 08:23:26

Kew Brewery's Brewhouse (tap room) appears to be closed at the moment. We don't yet know if this is permanent or temporary, but for now we've deleted it from the Guide until we hear more.

New Guide entry: The Italian Job, Hackney Wick

Posted 2020-02-16 03:31:43

Five years after opening their first pub in Chiswick, the Italian Job folks have recently opened their fourth venue, right opposite Victoria Park in Hackney Wick. The beer list here was impressive on our first visit, featuring a good number of Italian beers alongside some really excellent UK beers from the likes of Five Points. Don't forget to check out the bottled range, and the pizza is rather good too.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries: micropubs in London Borough of Havering

Posted 2020-02-16 03:31:08

The Guide recently ventured east to the London Borough of Havering, which is quite a long way out if you live on the other side of London. However, we were rewarded with three excellent micropubs, all of which have made the Guide. They are:

Gidea Park Micropub: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.445

The Hop Inn, Hornchurch: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.446

Upminster Tap Room: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.447

I've included directions between the pubs on each Guide entry. If coming from Central London, I'd recommend starting at Gidea Park Micropub. Take the tube to Liverpool Street or Stratford and catch a train from either to Gidea Park. Once done at Upminster Tap Room, I'd recommend returning to Romford on the Overground (two stops from Upminster) and then you can catch a fast train back to Stratford or Liverpool Street.

Whichever way you tackle it, this is a really good crawl which includes three lovely micropubs, all of which we are pleased to now have in the Guide.

New Guide entry: The Palm, Tottenham

Posted 2020-02-08 04:06:40

The Palm is a former Truman's pub, which has had what you might call a sympathetic makeover. We liked the place, the beer and the food, and would highly recommend a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Exale Taproom, Walthamstow

Posted 2020-02-08 04:04:04

Exale are now up and running in their new place on Uplands industrial estate, just north of Blackhorse Road tube. Their lovely tap room is very near both Signature and Wild Card Lockwood, making a great triple header of brewery taps very close together.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bohemia House, West Hampstead

Posted 2020-02-08 04:01:46

The former Czech and Slovak Club near West Hampstead tube has been taken on by the former CEO of Bohem Brewery, Zdenek. The beer range has been expanded, and this is now a great place to try the excellent Bohem beers alongside Czech classics like Budvar and Pilsner Urquell. There are plans to further expand the range with additional Czech beers not seen elsewhere in the UK, so watch this space.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Magpie and Crown, Brentford

Posted 2020-02-03 11:37:48

Following a February 2020 revisit, we have deleted the Magpie and Crown in Brentford from the Guide. This is because the beer range has reduced since our last visit, with the previous good range of bottled Weird Beard beers having gone, and only a small number of interesting casks remaining. We also felt the service was somewhat indifferent.

If and when the beer range improves we will be pleased to revisit. Reports welcome in due course.

Deletion from brewery list: Greenwich Brewery

Posted 2020-01-22 10:12:45

Thanks to Des de Moor for the information that brewing has ceased - for the moment at least - at Greenwich Brewery (at Up the Creek). Apparently they are looking for a new brewer, but we've seen a number of brewpubs start in London and later be discontinued, so for now we've deleted them from our list until we hear that they are back in action.

The number of breweries on our list falls to 126. Des currently records 129, the differences being his inclusion of a sake brewery, a kvass brewery, Magic Spells - who we exclude on the basis that their kit is mostly for trial brews etc only, with commercial production being in Cornwall - and Gan Yam, who we didn't add as they were on their way back up north (though at the time of writing they are still in London). In addition, we continue to list Ram Brewery, for the reasons noted on our Breweries page.

Our list can be found here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Craft Beer Co, Old Street

Posted 2020-01-22 00:17:11

I finally got round to revisiting Craft Beer Co Old Street and I'm pleased it's now in the Guide. I'm not sure it will ever be my favourite Craft Beer Co pub, but the beer list is excellent and the cask Buxton porter I had was exceptional.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog AF Old Street

Posted 2020-01-20 12:33:36

What was previously Draft House Old Street has now been rebranded as a BrewDog bar, with this one only selling beers of 0.5% ABV or below. We quite like the place, and while the beers aren't really our cup of tea, we applaud BD's efforts to promote AF beers and to give people a decent choice.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Bean & Hop, Earlsfield

Posted 2020-01-20 12:30:47

This coffee shop/beer place previously had a couple of draft lines and around 50 bottles/cans, so it was disappointing to find a dramatic reduction in beer range on a January 2020 revisit. It's clearly now more bean than hop so we have deleted it from the Guide.

New brewery added to list: Fearless Nomad, Brentford

Posted 2020-01-19 10:48:46

Fearless Nomad have started brewing at the Black Dog in Brentford, becoming the first new brewery added to our list in 2020, and the 127th overall. Their first two beers are now on the bar at the pub.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries: Brockley and Plumstead

Posted 2020-01-12 07:00:08

We have three more new Guide entries, as follows:

Joyce, Brockley: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.439 - a fine neighbourhood bar (see photo below) from the Salthouse Bottles folks;

Brockley Brewery Tap: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.440 - a tiny but quite cosy and friendly brewery tap;

The Plum Tree, Plumstead: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.438 - a micropub and bottle shop which is planning its own brewery.

New Guide entry: The Ram Inn, Wandsworth

Posted 2020-01-11 03:46:28

The former Young's brewery tap in the centre of Wandsworth is back open again, under the name 'The Ram Inn'. Crucially, it's also now a brewpub, being the home of its own Sly Beast Brewing. Their beers are rather good and we are pleased to have this one in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Gin & Beer, Deptford

Posted 2020-01-11 03:40:24

We were gutted to hear about the closure of the superb Gin & Beer in Deptford, whose last day open is today, Saturday 11 January.

Their very dignified and transparent statement on Twitter simply said that the 'rent was too high and the customers too few'.

This was one of our Guide 'top picks' - the third such bar to close in the last couple of years (see also: Dukes Brew & Que; Mason & Co) - which demonstrates that being a great place with an excellent range of beers is not on its own enough to ensure success.

We would like to wish the Gin & Beer people all the very best for the future.

Deletion from Guide: Small Beer Brew Co Tap Room

Posted 2020-01-06 09:48:25

The Small Beer Brew Co Tap Room, at the very southern end of the Bermondsey Beer Mile, has closed. The brewery is still going, but the tap room will no longer open on a regular basis. I understand that there will soon be the opportunity to do brewery tours, but these have not yet started.

Deletions from the Guide: Old Coffee House and Twickenham Brewery Tap

Posted 2020-01-05 11:26:57

We have deleted two Guide entries, as follows:

Old Coffee House, Soho: the range here has been reduced rather dramatically, with no cask Brodies beers available on our recent revisit. There are still a few Brodies keg beers but we are not sure what is happening - but suffice to say that we have had multiple reports of a poor beer range in addition to our own revisit. So, for now we have removed it from the Guide. As soon as the range improves, it should go back in again.

Twickenham Brewery Tap: this is still open, but we have decided to delete its Guide entry, as it was the only place which failed to meet our minimum opening requirements (all Guide entries must be open at least once a week) as it only opened on certain match days at the Stoop or Twickenham stadium. So, this is basically just a bit of overdue housekeeping and no comment at all on the tap room.

New Guide entry: Ealing Brewing Tap Room, Brentford

Posted 2020-01-05 09:08:29

Ealing Brewing's Tap Room in their new Brentford brewery opened towards the end of 2019, and we got round to visiting on the first Friday of the new year. So, it becomes our first new Guide entry of 2020.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

More Beer Guide London statistics: the Guide in 2019

Posted 2019-12-30 09:06:45

We started 2019 with 264 pubs (note that this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc) in our Guide, and we end the year with 323. This year we added a record number of new places to the Guide: a total of 80, though 3 of those places were later deleted (two closures, one downgraded due to beer quality issues). The net increase is 59, meaning there were a further 18 deletions on top of the 3 mentioned above. Of the 323 current Guide entries:

84 survive from pre-2014 when we put the Guide on line;
new entries from 2014 which survive total 24;
from 2015 there are 24;
from 2016 there are 21;
from 2017 there are 26;
from 2018 there are 67;
and there were 77 new entries in 2019 which have made it to the year end.

New entries in 2019 represent just under 24% of all current Guide entries. Taking 2018 and 2019 together, new entries in those two years alone make up almost 45% of all current Guide entries, and 74% of all current Guide entries are new since January 2014.

The pace of change shows no sign of letting up – it sped up significantly around the start of 2018 and we’ve now had two years of incredibly rapid growth, with 150 new places added to the Guide in that time – and 8 more still on our list awaiting a full survey for possible inclusion (all those are likely to make it in).

Some other stats: 67 Guide entries are brewery taps (at the start of 2019 there were 49); 45 are bottle shop bars (at the start of the year 24), and 18 are brewpubs (down from 22 at the start of 2019). Combined, the 130 places in these 3 categories represent 40% of all Guide entries, which is hugely significant given the combined total across all 3 categories when we started the Guide 6 years ago was just 15 (and of those 15, three are pubs now counted as brewpubs, but they didn’t brew at that time). Finally, of those 45 bottle shop bars in the Guide, precisely none of them were open when we started the Guide at the start of 2014.

London brewery statistics 2019 (v.2)

Posted 2019-12-29 12:27:58

We started 2019 with 119 London breweries on our list, and end it with 126, so a net increase of 7 for the year. However, this disguises quite a churn, with 23 new breweries added and 16 deleted for various reasons.

The 23 new breweries are: Mechanic, Inkspot, Mad Yank, Anomaly, Perivale, Mutineers, Little Creatures, Beavertown at Spurs, Brewery Beckenham - later closed – see below; Ealing, London Fields, London Beer Lab (2nd site), Watling Street, Wrong Side of the Tracks, Small Beer W12, Sly Beast, Brockley (2nd site), Goodness, St Mary’s, Riccardo’s/Eel Pie, Exale, Old Kent Road and Urban Alchemy.

The 16 deleted were: Big Smoke, Maregade, Alphabeta, Two Finches, UBrew, House, One Mile End Whitechapel, Craft Academy, Hale, George & Dragon, Brewery Beckenham, Project 88, Oddly, Cellar Boys, Redchurch and Magic Spells. All closed down, stopped, or moved out of London.

The current list can be found here:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Urban Alchemy, Barnet

Posted 2019-12-29 12:26:08

We've just been alerted to another new brewery - Urban Alchemy, who have now started brewing in Barnet. Their first beers can be found at the Little Green Dragon micropub in Winchmore Hill.

They become the 126th brewery on our list of current London breweries:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries: Wood Lane, Brixton and Penge

Posted 2019-12-17 00:25:25

We have three more new Guide entries, as follows:

Prairie Fire at the Wood Lane Arches, W12: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.434

Taproom by Brixton Village, SW9: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.433

Craft Metropolis, SE20: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.435

New brewery added to list: Old Kent Road Brewery, Catford

Posted 2019-12-08 03:33:46

Old Kent Road Brewery are now brewing in their own brewery, a 'mega nano' set up just off the Old Kent Road in Catford. I've added them to our list as the 125th current brewery in London:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Exale Brewing, Walthamstow

Posted 2019-12-03 11:25:48

Exale Brewing are now brewing in Walthamstow, in the same industrial estate as Signature's new brewery and tap room, not far from Blackhorse Lane tube on the Victoria Line. The people behind Exale are those formerly of Hale Brewing in Tottenham. Exale's own tap room opens on Friday 7 December.

The total number of London breweries increases to 124:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Brewery list updates

Posted 2019-11-27 10:44:50

We have deleted three breweries from our list, all of which appear to have either stopped, or transfered brewing outside London, etc:

Br3wery Beckenham;

Project 88 (at Beer & Burger Willesden Green);

Oddly Beer, most recently based in Tottenham.

We have also added two additional tiny breweries, as follows:

St Mary's Brewery, Primrose Hill: http://www.stmarysbrewery.co.uk/

Riccardo's Cellar/Eel Pie Brew School: http://ricardoscellar.com/

These changes bring the total number of London breweries on our list to 123:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Many thanks to Des de Moor for his assistance with this information.

New Guide entry: The Park Brewery Tap Room, Kingston upon Thames

Posted 2019-11-27 02:42:44

We were delighted to hear that The Park Brewery's new tap room is now open weekly - on Friday evenings - which means we can put it into the Guide. The beer is excellent and the tap room well worth a visit:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.432

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new Guide entries in central London

Posted 2019-11-27 02:40:05

We have two more new entries in central London:

Mikkeller Pop up bar, Exmouth Market: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.430

German Kraft @ Mercato Mayfair: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.431

Two new Guide entries: Dalston & Haggerston

Posted 2019-11-27 02:36:33

We have two more new entries in and around Dalston:

40Ft Brewery Tap: this has been open a while but we are pleased to finally put it into the Guide: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.429

Duke of York: just down the road, the former Duke's Brew & Que site is now part of Barworks, and very good it is too: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.338

Two new Guide entries in Walthamstow, E17

Posted 2019-11-27 01:58:38

We have two new Guide entries in Walthamstow, adding more quality options to what is becoming quite a beery part of London:

Welcome to the Forest Bar, near Walthamstow Central: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.427

Signature Brewery Tap, near Blackhorse Lane: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.428

New brewery added to list: Goodness Brew Co, Wood Green, N22

Posted 2019-11-26 10:24:54

We've added Goodness Brew Co to our list as the 124th London brewery. Their tap has been open for some time in Wood Green, and we understand they are now brewing on site.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Kernel Taproom, Bermondsey

Posted 2019-11-20 01:37:34

The Kernel Taproom is back, and it's great - immediately installed as a new Guide top pick.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Essex House, N1

Posted 2019-11-20 01:25:40

The former BrewDog Angel premises have reopened, this time as a fully independent free of tie operation called Essex House. With a clear focus on London breweries, this place is really good and deserves our support.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Four new Guide entries: German, Dutch and Belgian bars

Posted 2019-11-10 11:35:20

We'd realised for some time that the Guide didn't have many (any) German bars, nor did it have enough Belgian and Dutch specialists, so we decided to do a research crawl to find some more. It was a productive day, and we have four new entries in the Guide which aim to rectify things. They are:

Zeitgeist at the Jollly Gardeners, Vauxhall: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.421

Belgo Holborn: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.422

De Hems, West End: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.423

Octoberfest Pub, Parsons Green: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.424

All are well worth a visit, and between them they provide a wide range of German, Dutch and Belgian beers, so we hope you enjoy visiting them.

New Guide entry: Real Ale, Twickenham

Posted 2019-11-07 00:49:35

Real Ale's original shop, close to St Margaret's station, now has an on site drinking licence, so we are pleased to finally be able to include it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Brockley Brewery's second site

Posted 2019-11-01 11:16:31

Brockley Brewery are now brewing at their new site in Lee, SE12. This is a bigger facility, but as the original facility is being retained, we have added it to our list as a new London brewery.

The total number of London breweries rises to 123, which, if my memory is correct, is the highest total we have seen to date;

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Guide updates: Mason's Arms, SW8 now open; Art and Craft SE27 now closed

Posted 2019-10-24 09:07:23

We have one new Guide entry to report, the rather excellent new Fuller's pub in Battersea, The Mason's Arms. This is another of the new generation of Fuller's pubs which embrace a wide range of beers from other leading breweries. It's a lovely place with some very good beers. You can check out its new Guide entry by following the link below.

Unfortunately, news also reaches us of the closure of one of the Art and Craft bottle shop bars - the one in West Norwood, SE27. We assume - but are not certain - that this closure is permanent, so we have deleted it from the Guide. We understand that the other shops are still open.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Sly Beast Brewing, Wandsworth

Posted 2019-10-21 10:23:16

Brewing has now commenced at new Sly Beast Brewing, in the Ram Inn, which is the new pub on the former Young's Brewery Tap site in the heart of Wandsworth.

We really enjoyed our first Sly Beast beer, a session IPA called 1533, which we understand is a reference to the date on which brewing first took place on this historic site.

The total number of London breweries on our list rises to 122:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Changes to brewery list: Portobello at the George + Small Beer Brewing

Posted 2019-10-09 08:12:52

Portobello Brewing took on the George and Dragon in Acton some time ago, and we understood that brewing was to continue on this site. As far as we're aware, so far there's been no brewing since the takeover by Portobello, and with no firm information about future plans, we've deleted this one from our London brewery list for the moment.

We have added new Small Beer Brewing, based in London W12, a small brewery not to be confused with Small Beer Brew Co, based in Bermondsey, SE16.

The total number of London breweries remains unchanged at 121:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three deletions from Guide: Angel, West Norwood and Borough

Posted 2019-10-09 06:07:37

We have recently deleted 3 places from the Guide:

BrewDog Angel: the latest attempt to make this site work has sadly failed. Apparently the site has been relet to another operator but we have no information about beer, etc.

Second Wave, West Norwood: the tap room has closed. We are unclear about the brewery and whether or not it is still going. Any information welcome.

Other Room, Tower Bridge Road, SE1: apparently this place is now more of a sushi bar, with minimal beery interest.

New brewery added to list: Wrong Side of the Tracks Beer, Catford

Posted 2019-09-27 09:08:29

Today's new brewery is a tiny operation in Catford, brewing commercially 'in a garage' since last month. Known as WSOTT for short, I have Des de Moor to thank for the info on this one. Their first beer is Lewisham Pale Ale, or LewPA for short.

The total number of London breweries rises again to 121:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletions from Guide: UBrew, Bermondsey

Posted 2019-09-27 00:04:13

I am sorry to report that UBrew have 'gone into liquidation' and are no longer trading, so we have removed them from our brewery list and also deleted our Guide entry for their tap room.

The total number of London breweries on our list falls to 120:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: Hale Brewing, Tottenham

Posted 2019-09-25 09:28:43

Hale Brewing have stopped brewing in their container at the front of Five Miles in Tottenham, so we have deleted them from our list of London breweries. The owner is setting up a new venture called Exale Brewing, in Walthamstow, and once up and running you can expect the inevitable tap room.

This reduces the number of active breweries in London to 121:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries: London Fields and Bethnal Green

Posted 2019-09-22 09:02:27

We have three new Guide entries, all very close to each other in East London:

London Fields Tap Room:https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.416

Boxcar Tap Room:https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.418

Fugitive Motel:https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.417

New brewery added to list: Watling Street Beer, Tottenham

Posted 2019-09-17 10:13:36

Watling Street Beer have moved their brew kit from Watford to Tottenham, and they are now brewing in their new location. We have therefore added them to our list as the 122nd current brewery in London.

They are located in the same premises which also houses the brew kit now being shared by Oddly Beer and Trial and Error. The umbrella name for these premises is Tottenham Brewing Co, and the inevitable tap room is slowly starting to get up and running.

So, one tap room, three breweries, sharing two different brew kits, all in one location, at Tariff Road, N17 0EB.

London brewery updates

Posted 2019-08-31 03:40:12

Thanks to Des de Moor for these recent updates:

Craft Academy (Herne Hill) have stopped brewing, so we have deleted them from our list. We understand that brewing under the Florence name may start again in future, so watch this space.

Cellar Boys, who it seemed were brewing on their own kit, are, after all, brewing elsewhere and not at the White Hart SE14. We are pleased to see that their Twitter bio has been updated accordingly. We have removed them from our list of breweries, but we understand they may yet start to brew in their own place in future, so again, this is one to watch,

And in a correction to what we previously posted, we can confirm that Howling Hops brew on an occasional basis in the cellar of the Cock Tavern, Hackney. This is for short runs and trial beers, sold in the pub under the branding 'Short Stack'. We already had them on the list so have corrected a duplicate entry.

These changes reduce the total number of London breweries to 121:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Neckstamper Tap Room, Lea Bridge, E10

Posted 2019-08-18 04:28:30

Neckstamper's Tap Room is now open weekly, 2-8 every Saturday (but check before travelling just in case). We enjoyed our visit and they are now in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: The Phoenix, Clapham

Posted 2019-08-15 09:26:38

We received a report of very poor beer quality at the new-ish Harvey's pub, the Phoenix in Clapham. Being thorough, we checked it out ourselves, and unfortunately this visit confirmed that the beer quality was indeed well below par, with both available cask beers being in really poor condition.

We've therefore deleted the Phoenix from the Guide, until they improve their beer quality. Reports are welcome.

New Guide entry: Ghost Whale SW15 (Putney)

Posted 2019-08-11 06:38:23

Ghost Whale have taken on the former Beer Boutique space near East Putney station and totally transformed it. It's now a fantastic space offering 8 drafts and around 400 bottles/cans - fully refridgerated - and we are sure this new branch will do well.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Strongroom Bar & Kitchen, Shoreditch

Posted 2019-08-05 09:50:52

We can't remember why Strongroom wasn't already in the Guide, as it's not exactly new, but anyway, better late than never. Another place offering good beer in Shoreditch.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Taps + Tapas, Tooting Bec

Posted 2019-08-02 09:43:51

It's always great to see something a little different, and this place is definitely just that. A collaboration between London Beer Lab and The Tapas Room, here you will find excellent beer, food and wine in this compact bar very near Tooting Bec station.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

London Beer Lab

Posted 2019-07-27 06:03:52

We've just recieved clarification that London Beer Lab brew commerically at both their Brixton and Loughborough Junction sites, so we have added their second brewery to the list as it counts as an additional brewery under our definition.

The total number of London breweries increases again to 123.

Thanks to Des de Moor for his excellent detective work clarifying this information.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Clapton Craft, N4

Posted 2019-07-26 09:24:49

Clapton Craft is a well established mini chain of highly respected bottle shops, but until now they have been for off sales only, so didn't qualify for an entry in the Guide.

That has changed with the new Finsbury Park shop offering a dedicated space down the back for on site drinking. We are very pleased to include it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: One Mile End (Whitechapel)

Posted 2019-07-26 01:00:39

When One Mile End moved into the former Redemption premises in Tottenham, we understood that brewing would continue both in Tottenham and at their original home in Whitechapel, under the White Hart.

However, brewing stopped in Whitechapel some time ago and now seems unlikely to resume, so we have deleted the Whitechapel brewery from our list. If and when brewing resumes we will add it back onto the list.

The total number of London breweries falls to 122.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: London Fields Brewery

Posted 2019-07-21 08:49:44

The new incarnation of London Fields Brewery is, I understand, now brewing again, so I've added them to our list as the 123rd current brewery in London. The new tap room is due to open in August. Full list of London breweries here;

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: House Brewery, N22

Posted 2019-07-11 03:33:04

House Brewery, based at the Prince, Wood Green N22, has stopped brewing, so we have deleted them from the list. The future of the brewing kit is uncertain.

The number of London breweries falls to 122: https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Ealing Brewing Co

Posted 2019-07-07 04:12:57

This is a new brewery in Brentford from the people who own Marko Paulo Beers and the Owl and Pussycat in Northfields. I understand that this new brewery is on a bigger scale, but the intention is to continue to brew at the pub as well. Brewing is just starting up so any reports of the beers would be welcome.

The total number of London breweries increases to 123:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Half year statistics: London breweries and Guide entries

Posted 2019-06-30 03:50:16

We started the year with 119 London breweries on our list, and half way through the year the total is 122, so a net increase of 3.

We added 9 new breweries (Mechanic, Inkspot, Mad Yank, Anomaly, Perivale, Mutineers, Beckenham, Little Creatures and Beavertown at Spurs) and deleted 6 (Big Smoke - moved out of the big smoke); Maregade, Alphabeta and Two Finches (all closed down); Redchurch (stopped brewing at their Bethnal Green location) and Magic Spells (production is in Cornwall, not London).

We started 2019 with 264 pubs (this includes pubs, brewery taps, tap rooms, bottle shop bars, etc) in our Guide, and half way through the year we have increased that total to 307. With 54 new entries already this year, it's been an exceptional time for new openings. However, we've also seen a number of closures and deletions for other reasons, meaning the net increase is just 43, despite the 54 new entries.

Deletions from brewery list: Two Finches and Magic Spells

Posted 2019-06-30 02:56:57

We believe that Two Finches are no longer brewing, so we have deleted them from our list of London breweries.

We have also deleted Magic Spells. While they have a small pilot kit in their Lea Bridge premises, we understand that all their commercial production is brewed in Cornwall, so they don't qualify under our criteria.

You can find the updated criteria here, along with the updated list of all 122 current London breweries:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Grosvenor Arms, Stockwell

Posted 2019-06-26 12:49:58

Ignore the branding as a Brixton pub. this new sister pub to nearby Priory Arms is closer to Stockwell - a little under half way between the two. Regardless of where it is, you really should visit as it is very good indeed. We really enjoyed our first visit and will be back.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Little Creatures, Kings Cross

Posted 2019-06-23 11:47:55

Brewing has now commenced on site at the new Little Creatures place in Kings Cross, so we've added them to our list. The total number of breweries in London rises again to 124:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletions from Guide: Pitt Cue Co + Alphabeta Brewery

Posted 2019-06-22 13:44:21

We learned yesterday via Matt Curtis that Pitt Cue Co (Liverpool Street) had gone into administration, and today we received confirmation that both the bar/restaurant and its brewery - Alphabeta - are no more. Very sadly, we have deleted both from the Guide. The London brewery count falls to 123:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Four new Guide entries: West Norwood, Herne Hill, Wood Green & Walthamstow

Posted 2019-06-16 06:59:41

This week's new Guide entries are equally divided between north and south of the river:

Second Wave Tap Room, West Norwood: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.407

Canopy Tap Room, Herne Hill: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.408

Goodness Tap Room. Wood Green: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.409

The Real Al Tap (TRAP), Walthamstow: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.410

Three of these places are new (or relatively new), whereas Canopy gets a Guide entry following a revisit. If you haven't tried their beers in a while we'd recommend giving them another go.

Two new Guide entries: Ruislip and Walthamstow

Posted 2019-06-07 00:29:27

Earlier this week we did the Ruislip to Walthamstow crawl, in the interests of research - and so that you don't have to. But we do recommend going to both these new Guide entries - just not on the same evening like we did:

Hop and Vine, Ruislip: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.405 - a lovely micropub on Ruislip High Street;

Untraditional Pub, Walthamstow: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.406 - a new bar from Pillars Brewery in the CRATE complex at St James St, E17.

Three new Guide entries: Gipsy Hill, Crystal Palace and Bromley

Posted 2019-05-30 12:09:16

We have three new Guide entries this week, all in SE London, as follows:

The Bull & Finch, Gipsy Hill: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.101 - the new Bullfinch Brewery bar, in what was previously Beer Rebellion;

Craft & Courage, Crystal Palace: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.403 - a bottle shop bar, sister to Craft Tooting;

Lock & Barrel, Bromley: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.404 - a rather good new micropub, serving cask ale in fantastic condition.

All three provide a contrasting drinking experience and a visit to each is highly recommended.

New Guide entry: Richmond Vault

Posted 2019-05-27 06:56:17

This is a cellar bar right in the centre of Richmond, in the premises which were previously Pigs Ears. We like this version much better than the previous one and it is now in the Guide:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.125

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Redchurch no longer in Bethnal Green

Posted 2019-05-26 02:16:05

Redchurch have gone into administration, but there's a new buyer and the brewery continues - albeit just in Harlow. The Bethnal Green tap room continues, but as an independent venture. The London brewery count falls to 124:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries: Barnes, Hammersmith and Acton

Posted 2019-05-25 03:05:51

This week we have added three new entries, all in West/SW London:

Waterman's Arms, Barnes: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.401 - one of the best options anywhere in London for good beer with Thames views;

Craft Beer Co, Hammersmith: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.400 - great beer, and a new candidate for title of 'best pub ceiling in London';

A Pint of Hops, Acton: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.402 - a lovely bottle shop bar in Acton.

Three new Guide entries: Stratford, Leytonstone, North Greenwich

Posted 2019-05-19 06:33:49

Our recent catch up crawl took us to three excellent new places which are now in the Guide, as follows:

Mother Kelly's, Stratford: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.398

Solvay Society Tap Room, Leytonstone: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.397

Beer + Burger at the O2, North Greenwich: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.399

Two new Guide entries in Kings Cross/St Pancras

Posted 2019-05-19 06:33:00

The new development behind Kings Cross/St Pancras now has three new beer places, all within a few minutes' walk of each other. As well as the excellent Beer + Burger, we now have the following new Guide entries;

House of Cans: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.391

Little Creatures: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.392

Two new Guide entries, both brewery taps

Posted 2019-05-19 06:29:18

We have two new Guide entries to report. Both are brewery taps, though they are quite different from each other:

The Hillbilly Tap Room, Muswell Hill: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.390 - this is one of the smallest tap rooms in the Guide, but it is nevertheless well worth a visit.

Hammerton Brewery Tap, https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.393 - this tap room is much bigger and more developed, having been open on a monthly basis for the last few years. Now that it is open weekly, we are delighted it can go in the Guide.

Three new Guide entries: Hackney and Bethnal Green

Posted 2019-05-19 05:19:14

We've been busy catching up with new openings, and were pleased to find 3 new tap rooms in Hackney and Bethnal Green. They are all now in the Guide:

All Good Beer Tap Room, Hackney Downs: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.394

Brew Club Tap Room, Hackney: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.395

Taproom by Bethnal Green: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.396

London brewery updates: ORA/Brewheadz, Mutineers and Beckenham

Posted 2019-05-08 23:42:44

We have added two new breweries to our list, as follows:

Mutineers Brewery, brewing very small scale from a garage in Bromley, and:

Brewery Beckenham, whose beers can be found in Three Hounds bottle shop bar next to Clock House station.

We have also updated Brewheadz to reflect the sale of their Tottenham Hale brewery to ORA, so it is now listed as ORA/Brewheadz on our list.

The total number of London breweries rises to 125:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Two more new London breweries added to list: Anomaly and Perivale

Posted 2019-04-23 06:10:36

I've added Anomaly Brewing (Kingston upon Thames) and Perivale Brewing (10 mins from Perivale tube on the Central Line).

Both appear to be very small, with Anomaly describing themselves as a 'nano' brewery which specialises in 'old, forgotten recipes'. Perivale are part of the 'Friends of Horsenden Hill' collective, with brewing taking place in a former farm building. There are monthly open days and this might become more regular later on.

These two additions bring the total number of London breweries on our list up to 123:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Five new Guide entries

Posted 2019-04-06 06:21:49

This week we have 5 more new Guide entries, bringing the total number since the start of 2018 to 100:

Real Ale Notting Hill: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.386

The Collab, Walthamstow: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.387

BrewDog Dalston: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.384

Small Beer Brew Co, Bermondsey: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.389

Beer Asylum, Pinner: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.388

More London closures and deletions from the Guide

Posted 2019-03-28 02:51:36

We have news of two more London closures: Magpie and Crown in Brentford, and the excellent We Brought Beer in Clapham Junction. The latter was apparently due to a proposed doubling of the rent. Following quickly after the news of the closure of the Bottle Shop and the Beer Boutique (x 2 branches), this brings the total number of closures in the last week to five.

All five places have been deleted from the Guide.

Deletions from Guide: Bottle Shop and Beer Boutique (x 2)

Posted 2019-03-25 10:04:14

The last week has brought some very sad news of the demise of two of London's leading beer retailers, Bottle Shop and Beer Boutique.

We've therefore deleted 3 Guide entries: Bottle Shop's wonderful bar on Druid St, Bermondsey, and the two rather good Beer Boutiques, in Putney and Wandsworth Town.

We are sorry to hear of these closures and send good wishes for the future to all concerned.

New brewery added to list: Beavertown Brewery at the new Spurs stadium

Posted 2019-03-24 05:34:35

We understand that brewing has now commenced at the new, additional, Beavertown Brewery at the new Tottenham Hotspur football stadium. Therefore we have added them to our list as the 121st brewery in London. Brewing continues at the Tottenham Hale site. The full list of London breweries can be found here:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: The Raven, Tower Bridge Road

Posted 2019-03-22 02:03:52

The old Adnam's pub, Bridge House, has been given the most remarkable makeover by the people behind Euston Tap, etc. It is now The Raven, and we were very impressed on our first visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: The Mad Yank Brewery

Posted 2019-03-19 15:49:02

The Mad Yank Brewery are now brewing on their own 1.5 BBL kit in Pinner, in the London Borough of Harrow.

I've added them to our list of London breweries, taking the total back to 120:

http://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

Four new Guide entries

Posted 2019-03-19 12:48:45

We have four more new entries in the Guide, as follows:

The Bolton & Proeflokaal Rembrandt: a new Guide 'top pick' in Earls Court:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.377

The Hercules, a huge new Fullers pub opposite Lambeth North tube:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.383

Mother Kelly's N16: a gorgeous bottle shop bar in Stoke Newington:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.378

Beer Hawk Farringdon: bottle shop bar opposite Smithfield Market:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.381

Three new Guide entries

Posted 2019-03-19 12:44:49

We have three more new Guide entries, as follows:

Red Hand, Dalston - a new Guide 'top pick' from the Graceland group of pubs:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.376

Mother Kelly's E9: lovely bottle shop bar in Hackney:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.379

Spit & Sawdust, a down to earth bar near Elephant & Castle:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.380

Deletion from brewery list: Maregade now closed

Posted 2019-03-18 11:51:55

Maregade have closed, apparently permanently. Their inability to secure a regular licence for the tap room was, I understand, at least part of the issue. This is a shame, as it was in what is now a very beery bit of Hackney and the tap room could have done really well.

The brewery count in London falls to 119:

https://www.beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Art & Craft (West Norwood)

Posted 2019-03-15 01:37:25

This bottle shop bar in West Norwood becomes the 3rd Art & Craft bottle shop bar in the Guide - the other two being in Streatham. They are all really lovely, and provide a good opportunity to try the increasingly impressive beers from owners Inkspot Brewery.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new Guide entries: Earth Tap, Wood Green and Grin & Beer It, N5

Posted 2019-03-08 09:57:15

We have two new Guide entries this week, and curiously enough, both offer a huge selection of board games for customers to enjoy while supping their beer.

Earth Tap: the quirky double decker bus tap room for Earth Ales, near Wood Green station: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.373

Grin & Beer It: new bottle shop bar on Blackstock Road, N5: https://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.374

New Guide entry: Beer + Burger, Kings Cross

Posted 2019-03-02 04:02:12

The new Beer + Burger on York Way, in the ArtHouse development just behind Kings Cross, is their best yet. A seriously good draft list, the usual excellent bottled/canned range, plus the full burger menu, all in a very impressive new venue.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Foxglove, Liverpool Road, N1

Posted 2019-02-28 12:41:41

It's great to see this place back open again, this time as the Foxglove. Not hugely different from its last incarnation as Hop & Berry, and with an improved beer range, we're very pleased to have it back in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Oxford Tavern, Kentish Town

Posted 2019-02-26 11:41:48

West Berkshire Brewery opened the Oxford Tavern some time ago, and we have finally been to visit. It's really good, so we are delighted to include it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Art & Craft SW16 (2)

Posted 2019-02-21 11:43:32

We've now visited both the Art & Craft bottle shop bars in Streatham and we liked them both sufficiently to put them in the Guide. This is the Guide entry for the second, larger branch, close to Streatham station. Both are well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Phoenix, Clapham

Posted 2019-02-18 14:15:10

Harvey's have taken on a 3rd London pub, The Phoenix - midway between Clapham North and Stockwell. It's pretty good too, with 4 cask and 2 keg beers from Harvey's, and a full menu.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Big Smoke moves out of the big smoke

Posted 2019-02-15 10:11:47

Big Smoke have now completed their move from Surbiton to their brand new premises in Esher, so we have deleted them from our list of London breweries. The number of breweries in London falls to 120, for the moment.

Four new Guide entries

Posted 2019-01-27 03:30:49

This week we have another four new entries in the Guide, only one of which is actually a new opening. The rest have been open for some time, and it's great to now have them in the Guide:

Sutton Arms, Clerkenwell: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.365

CraftnDraft, Hackney Road: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.364

Brew By Numbers, Peckham: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.367

Hiver and Friends, Bermondsey: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.366

New brewery added to list: Inkspot Brewery, Streatham

Posted 2019-01-21 11:49:24

Inkspot beers have been around for a while, but until recently these were brewed at other breweries. Their own brewery is now up and running, at the Rookery, a Victorian Garden in Streatham. Apparently there's a spring running underneath, which they plan to drill down into, all being well. The inevitable tap room will follow soon, and you can find their beers in one of their 'Art & Craft' bottle shop bars (Streatham x 2 and West Norwood) or their bar on Surrey Street in Croydon.

They are the 121st London brewery on our list.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new Guide entries: Ignition Brewery Tap and Art & Craft SW16

Posted 2019-01-20 07:13:08

We have two new Guide entries this week:

Ignition Brewery Tap, Sydenham: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.361

Art & Craft, Streatham Hill: http://www.beerguideldn.com/pubs.363

Two very different places, but both well worth a visit.

New brewery added to list: Mechanic Brewery, Bethnal Green

Posted 2019-01-14 10:03:28

The first addition to our brewery list in 2019 is Mechanic Brewery. Previously brewing at UBrew, Mechanic Brewery now have their own place in Bethnal Green, and have already started brewing there. The inevitable tap room will follow shortly. They become the 120th brewery on our list of London breweries.

New Guide entry: Little Faith Taproom, Deptford

Posted 2019-01-13 05:31:10

This is a lovely spot with some excellent beers. Located just a few minutes' walk from Villages Brewery, Gin & Beer, Hop Burns & Black and Taproom SE8, it's just added further to the fantastic Deptford crawl.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Kew Brewery Brewhouse, East Sheen

Posted 2018-12-31 08:56:39

Kew Brewery is under new ownership, and the new people have managed to fit in a tiny tap room in the front of the brewery. It becomes our 70th - and definitely the final - new entry in the Guide in 2018.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Beer Guide London statistics: Jan 2014 - Dec 2018

Posted 2018-12-31 08:53:03

This year we've added more than double the number of new places to the Guide than we have in any previous year since we started: 70 this year, compared to an average of 32 in each of the last 4 years. This prompted us to do a review of the make up of current Guide entries, which makes interesting reading and shows the dramatic pace of change in the London beer scene.

There are currently 264 entries in our Guide as at the end of 2018. Of these, 88 survive from pre-2014 when we put the Guide on line. New entries in 2014 which survive total 25; from 2015 there are 28; from 2016 there are 27, and from 2017 there are 26. The 70 new Guide entries in 2018 represent over a quarter of all current Guide entries. Two thirds of all current Guide entries are new since January 2014.

The pace of change appears to be speeding up, and the quality keeps on increasing too: many of the places in the Guide when we started are struggling to keep up now the bar has been raised so significantly.

Some other stats: 49 Guide entries are brewery taps; 24 are bottle shop bars, and 22 are brewpubs. Combined, the 95 places in these 3 categories represent nearly 36% of all Guide entries, which is hugely significant given they probably numbered less than 10 places in total when we started 5 years ago.

With 11 places already on our 'coming soon' list, all due to open early in 2019, next year seems to promise yet more growth in London's ever changing beer scene.

London brewery statistics 2018

Posted 2018-12-29 04:27:25

We started 2018 with 109 breweries on our list of London breweries, and we end it with 119, a net increase of 10.

We recorded 9 deletions - either breweries closing or moving out of London - and added 19 new breweries during the year.

The full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Ignition Brewery, Sydenham

Posted 2018-12-29 04:04:53

Previously brewing at UBrew, Ignition Brewery now have their own place in Sydenham. We have yet to visit the tap room and don't have 100% confirmation of this, but there is reasonable evidence to suggest they have now started brewing at these premises on their own kit, so we have added them to our list.

They become the 119th brewery on our list of current London breweries:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Callow Ruscoe, Fulham

Posted 2018-12-21 08:54:00

I spoke too soon when I said that Twickenham's Brewery Market would be our final new entry of 2018. When I visited there, I didn't know that Callow Ruscoe would be open just in time for Christmas, nor did I know if I'd get there in time to get it in the Guide before the end of the year. However, both of these things happened and this lovely bottle shop bar is now in our Guide. Happy to recommend a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Brewery Market, Twickenham

Posted 2018-12-09 08:08:06

Our 68th and probably final new Guide entry of 2018 is a good one: Brewery Market, a bottle shop bar right in the centre of Twickenham. We were impressed with the draft beer range when we visited, and I am pretty sure it's this sort of quality all the time. Good place.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new Guide entries: Draft House Farringdon + BrewDog Brixton

Posted 2018-12-06 01:13:36

It is highly encouraging to see new owners BrewDog expanding the Draft House portfolio, and keeping all the good bits pretty much the same. This is definitely the case with the lovely new Draft House Farringdon which is now open in the former Abbaye space:

http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.353

BrewDog's own expansion continues apace with their 5th new London opening in 2018 alone (and 11th in total) now open in Brixton:

http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.354

New Guide entry: Black Dog Beer House, Brentford

Posted 2018-12-04 11:52:14

The folks who used to run the superb Sussex Arms in Strawberry Hill are back with a new pub in Brentford. As you might expect, it is very good indeed and we are very pleased to have it in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Five new Guide entries

Posted 2018-12-02 06:18:47

Following yesterday's research crawl, we've added 5 new places to the Guide, as follows:

Seven Seasons, Hoxton: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.347

Mikkeller Bar, Shoreditch: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.348

Goose Island Brewpub, Shoreditch: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.349

BrewDog Canary Wharf: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.350

Cloudwater Tap Room, Bermondsey: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.351

New brewery added to list: Brewhouse & Kitchen Hoxton

Posted 2018-11-30 09:45:54

I jumped the gun a while back with this one, but they are now definitely brewing on site at the new Brewhouse & Kitchen in Hoxton. They become the 118th brewery on our list of London breweries:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: The Jackalope, Marylebone

Posted 2018-11-30 09:39:58

The Euston Tap family has expanded again, with this lovely reopening of a former Sam Smith's pub, nominally in Marylbone but very central - less than 10 minutes' walk north of Oxford Circus tube. It's a lovely pub tucked away on a quiet mews, and is full of historic features.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: True Craft, Tottenham

Posted 2018-11-30 09:38:01

There have been several new openings in Tottenham this year, and all of them are rather good. The latest is True Craft, in the former West Green Tavern, close to Seven Sisters station.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Pinnora Brewing, Pinner

Posted 2018-11-23 09:33:32

Pinnora Brewing are a new (early 2018, but they were under our radar) self proclaimed nano brewery out in leafy Pinner, Middlesex (LB Harrow). There are plans for the inevitable tap room, but we have little information at this stage other than what's on their website.

They become the 117th London brewery currently on our list:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Battersea Brewery

Posted 2018-11-23 09:19:34

Battersea Brewery's new brewpub, in the Battersea Power Station complex and very near the river, is now open. Their own beers are already on the bar and I assume that we will see more of them on offer alongside guest beers in weeks and months to come.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Battersea Brewery

Posted 2018-11-06 11:28:37

Battersea Brewery have now started brewing at their new brewpub in the Battersea Power Station complex. While it's great to see this name revived, we understand there is no connection with the Battersea Breweries of the past.

They become the 116th brewery on our list of London breweries:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries in SE London

Posted 2018-11-04 03:59:08

We have three new Guide entries in South East London, as folllow:

The Pigeon, Camberwell: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.341

Park Fever, Hither Green: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.342

Craft Beer Cabin, South Norwood: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.343

New brewery added to list: Gravity Well Brewing Co, Leyton

Posted 2018-10-28 05:16:46

Gravity Well Brewing Co is now up and running, brewing in a railway arch in Leyton. I understand they like hops and will be focussing on pale ales, IPAs and IIPAs, but I've yet to try their beers. Reports welcome.

They become the 115th brewery on our list of London breweries:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Goose Shoreditch

Posted 2018-10-27 04:47:00

Goose Island's new Shoreditch brewpub opens on 30 October, with its first brew scheduled for Monday 29th October. Slighly premature I know, but I've added them to our list of London breweries, and it is number 114:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Greenwich Brewery

Posted 2018-10-25 11:55:18

I understand that brewing has now commenced in a tiny brewery located in the bar of the Up The Creek comedy club, SE10. The first beer is apparently on the bar already but we have yet to visit. Reports welcome.

This brings the total number of London breweries back up to 113.

New brewery added to list: Howling Hops (under the Cock Tavern)

Posted 2018-10-03 00:33:55

Following Maregade's departure to their own site, brewing has recommenced under the Cock Tavern, Hackney. This is once again under the auspices of Howling Hops. For now we've classed this as a brewpub as we expect most of the production will be for the pub. Further info welcome if anyone knows more.

London brewery total rises again to 112.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: The Broken Drum Home Brewery

Posted 2018-09-20 13:26:48

A very tiny home brewing operation has obtained a licence, allowing it to sell its beers commercially. The one firkin brewery aims to produce two firkins a month, and I understand that the first Thursday of each month should be a good time to visit the Broken Drum micropub in Blackfen (Sidcup) to taste the beers.

The total number of London breweries increases to 111:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery coming soon: Brewhouse & Kitchen Hoxton

Posted 2018-09-19 09:28:53

A third branch of Brewhouse & Kitchen has now opened in Hoxton, close to Hoxton Station. When brewing commences we will move them from our planned list, but for now the place is open just as a regular bar. We have yet to visit.

New brewery added to list: Brixton Brewery (Dylan Road)

Posted 2018-09-17 11:48:42

Production has now commenced in Brixton's new brewery on Dylan Road, off Milkwood Road, SE24, with the focus on kegs and cans. As brewing will continue at their old site on Brixton Station Road - for cask and bottled beer - the new place counts as an additional brewery so we've added this to our list.

Thanks to Des de Moor for the info.

The total number of London breweries on our list is currently 110:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Deviant and Dandy Tap Room

Posted 2018-09-15 07:50:31

Ex Beavertown co-owner/founder Byron now has his own brewery - in a railway arch in the centre of Hackney. As it's just round the corner from The Experiment and St John at Hackney Brewery - not to mention the Cock Tavern and the Pembury Tavern, both of which are also nearby - it's in prime crawl territory. Good place, where you should get a warm and friendly welcome.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Signature Brew Tap Room

Posted 2018-09-15 07:46:59

Signature Brew have opened a rather good tap room just south of Haggerston station. We really enjoyed our first visit and are pleased to include it in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two more deletions from brewery list: Streatham & Monkey Chews

Posted 2018-09-04 09:50:48

Streatham Brewing Co and Monkey Chews (based at the Montague Arms, New Cross Gate) have both stopped brewing, so we've deleted them from our list. The total number of London breweries falls to 109:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Thanks again to Des de Moor for the updates.

Deletions from brewery list: Cricklewood Brewing & George and Dragon

Posted 2018-08-31 01:45:56

Cricklewood Brewing appears to have stopped, as has brewing at the now closed George and Dragon, W1. We have therefore deleted both from our brewery list. The total number of London breweries now stands at 111.

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Thanks to Des de Moor for his research on both of these closures.

Deletion from brewery list: Brewery Below, N1

Posted 2018-08-26 04:08:21

Brewery Below - the brewery underneath Borough Wines, Essex Road - has stopped brewing, and there are currently no plans to restart. We have therefore deleted them from our list, reducing the current number of London breweries to 113.

New Guide entry: Beef & Brew at the Duke of York

Posted 2018-08-13 07:32:10

Beef & Brew have reopened the former Duke's location in Haggerston - the original home of Beavertown Brewery. It has a similar formula of good beer and a meat focussed food menu, in this case the emphasis being on steak rather than BBQ. It's great to see this place back open again and we hope it does well.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Experiment, E8

Posted 2018-08-13 07:28:40

Pressure Drop and Verdant Brewing Co have teamed up to open an excellent new tap room in Pressure Drop's original brewery in Hackney. It's another tap room in a railway arch, located immediately next door to St John at Hackney Brewery and just round the corner from Deviant and Dandy's brewery and tap room. With two great breweries involved, good beer is guaranteed.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: St John at Hackney Brewery

Posted 2018-07-19 01:43:46

St John at Hackney Brewery tap room is now open, and most impressive it is too. Situated in two railway arches in the centre of Hackney, it's a great space with excellent beer - in our view, one of the most impressive new breweries in London for quite some time. The tap room is well worth a visit and is now in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Hop Burns and Black Deptford

Posted 2018-07-06 10:06:50

Deptford has suddenly become a rather excellent place for good beer. Its 4th new Guide entry of the year is the new Hop Burns and Black location in an arch right under the station. Perfectly located between our other Deptford Guide entries, this bottle shop bar is smaller than the Peckham original, but it's every bit as good.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Brewery update: Dragonfly is now 'Portobello at the George'

Posted 2018-07-05 11:12:22

The owners of the Remarkable Pubs group have previously brewed in their Acton pub, the George and Dragon, under the name Dragonfly Brewery. However, the Dragonfly brand is no more, and the brewery at the back of the pub is now operated by Portobello Brewing Co, under the name 'Portobello at the George'.

This will effectively become a Portobello tap house, and we understand that the range of beers will largely be new and/or experimental beers.

Reports of the beers and any changes to the pub will be welcome.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: London Calling Sweden, Bermondsey

Posted 2018-07-02 11:58:54

There's another tap room now open in Bermondsey. This is another one which does not have on site brewing, and in line with other notable trends (Moor, Cloudwater...) it features beers from a brewery from outside London - in this case Poppels Brewery from Sweden.

The tap room is between Moor Vaults and Brew By Numbers, and will be next door to Cloudwater when they open later in the year. It is beautifully done, with excellent beers on draft and in bottles, and with a lovely outdoor space too.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: St John at Hackney Brewery

Posted 2018-07-02 10:40:32

St John at Hackney Brewery have started brewing at their new brewpub & tap room in the centre of Hackney, becoming the 114th brewery on our list of London breweries.

Their name could be considered confusing, as they have no connection with either long established Hackney Brewery, nor the highly regarded St John restaurants. However, they are named after the local Church, St John at Hackney, with whom they have some connections.

The space looks great and we are looking forward to visiting soon and trying the beers.

The full list of London breweries can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list; Spartan Brewery, Bermondsey

Posted 2018-06-26 14:30:59

Spartan Brewery have now started brewing at their new brewery, which occupies one half of the old Partizan premises in Bermondsey. The other half is occupied by Affinity, both being located near the top of the southern part of the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile.

Both Spartan and Affinity have tap rooms and both are listed in our Guide - see the Bermondsey section in 'South/South East' pubs.

The total number of London breweries is now 113 and you can find the full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: The Fox, E8 (Haggerston)

Posted 2018-06-20 12:02:07

We're really sorry to report the almost immediate closure of the Fox, E8 (Haggerston - just round the corner from the old Duke's site). This Sunday will be their final day, due to their landlord redevloping the site and taking back possession.

Here is a link to their tweet announcing the news and giving further details:

https://twitter.com/TheFoxE8/status/1009385469455556608

Following so soon after the closure of Duke's this means Haggerston has lost two of the best beer places in London within a matter of months. We wish the team well and hope that they may re-emerge at some point in the future.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Eight new Guide entries in South East London and Kent

Posted 2018-06-13 13:33:37

The Guide recently visited 11 micropubs in SE London on one day - all in the interests of research. Eight of them made it into the Guide:

The Penny Farthing, Crayford http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.326

The Bird and Barrel, Barnehurst - the brewery tap for Bexley Brewery: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.327

The Kentish Belle, Bexleyheath: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.328

The Hopper's Hut, Sidcup: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.329

The Halfway House, Sidcup: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.332

The Hackney Carriage, Sidcup: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.331

The River Ale House, Greenwich: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.333

And finally, the best of them all, and a new Guide Top Pick, The Rusty Bucket Pub, Eltham: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.330

Visiting all these micropubs on one day is possible with careful research and use of a combination of trains and buses, but it is highly recommended and makes for an excellent day out.

Two new Guide entries in Tottenham, N17

Posted 2018-06-13 13:11:58

Tottenham has recently gained two excellent new places to drink good beer. One of them is what used to be the Pride of Tottenham, which has had a serious refurb and is now The Bluecoats. The other is a former public toilet, which is now being put to much better use as The High Cross. Full details can be found here:

The Bluecoats: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.323

The High Cross: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.322

Three new Guide entries

Posted 2018-06-13 13:07:50

We have three more new Guide entries. Full details of each can be found via the links below:

BrewDog Angel: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.210

Beer Hawk Southwark: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.325

Wild Card Lockwood: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.324

New Guide entry: Hop Locker Bar Under the Bridge

Posted 2018-05-21 11:01:17

The Hop Locker's excellent summer bar is back, directly under the Hungerford Bridge. No longer a container bar, they've got an excellent new set up shared with Bleecker Burger and Oh My Dog. Now open 7 days a week until the end of September.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery and new Guide entry: BrewDog Tower Hill

Posted 2018-05-21 10:59:45

BrewDog's huge new Tower Hill bar includes its own brewery, making it the first BrewDog brewpub. As well as a new Guide entry, we've added this brewery to our list of London breweries. The full list of all 112 breweries can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery and new Guide entry: Two Tribes, King's Cross

Posted 2018-04-19 12:27:17

Two Tribes have now opened their new London brewery and tap room, just north of King's Cross. This brings the total number of London breweries up to 111, and we really enjoyed the tap room so this is a new entry in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry; Moncada Tap Room, NW2

Posted 2018-04-15 07:58:47

Moncada have moved to their new, much bigger location in Dollis Hill, NW2, and their tap room is now up and running. It's in an excellent space overlooking the brewery and a visit is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Three new Guide entries

Posted 2018-04-08 09:22:10

This week we have 3 more new Guide entries - in Bermondsey, Brockley and Bethnal Green:

Spartan Brewery Tap, SE16: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.315

waterintobeer, SE4: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.316

Old Street Brewery Tap, E2: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.317

New brewery added to list: Old Street Brewery, Bethnal Green

Posted 2018-03-26 00:13:32

Old Street Brewery, who were previously brewing under the Queen's Head, WC1, have now started brewing in their own place in Bethnal Green. Their tap room will follow soon so watch this space. More information is available on their website, here:

http://oldstreet.beer/about-us/

This brings the total number of London breweries up to 110:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Three new Guide entries

Posted 2018-03-25 05:24:58

This week we have 3 more new entries in the Guide, one in Hammersmith and the other two in East London:

Old Suffolk Punch, Hammersmith W6: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.312

Pretty Decent Tap Room, E7: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.313

Husk Brewing Tap Room, E16: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.314

Seven new Guide entries

Posted 2018-03-18 09:03:38

This week we have 7 new entries in the Guide, mainly in North London, but also one in Dalston, E8:

The Little Green Dragon, Winchmore Hill: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.304

Small Beer Public House, Crouch End: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.305

Indiebeer, Holloway Road: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.306

Pressure Drop Tap Room, Tottenham Hale: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.307

Five Miles, Seven Sisters: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.309

Beer and Burger, Dalston: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.310

Draft House, Camden: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.311

Five new Guide entries

Posted 2018-03-11 09:01:22

This week we have five new entries, including one new Guide Top Pick:

Gin and Beer - a new Top Pick: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.302

Villages Brewery Tap - almost next door to Gin and Beer: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.301

Taproom SE8 - with just round the corner from Gin and Beer and Villages, forming a great little crawl: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.303

Sympathetic Ear - bottle shop bar in Brixton: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.299

BrewDog Seven Dials: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.300

Six new Guide entries

Posted 2018-03-04 08:51:59

We've been busy getting stuck into our lengthy list of new places to check out, so we have six new Guide entries, as follows:

Draft House Paddington: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.294

Draft House The Tankard (Kennington): http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.296

Real Ale, Little Venice: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.293

Fountain and Ink, SE1: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.297

The Wigmore, near Oxford Circus: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.295

Mc and Sons, SE1: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.298

While all of these are well worth a visit, we particularly enjoyed our visit to Mc and Sons, which is the only one of the above immediately awarded an 'Honourable Mention' yellow tick in the Guide.

New brewery added to list: Small Beer Brew Co, Bermondsey

Posted 2018-03-04 04:18:21

Yes, another brewery in Bermondsey, but this one is a little different: Small Beer Brew Co, as the name implies, will specialise in beers between 0.5% and 2.8% ABV. I'm not sure they were quite 'the world's first' in this regard - given that Nirvana started with a similar mission last year - but regardless, I am looking forward to trying their beers.

The total number of London breweries on our list is now 109:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: The Bitter End, Bromley

Posted 2018-02-28 12:50:49

All of a sudden, Bromley now has a second excellent beer destination - a new micropub in a former off licence called The Bitter End. This is well worth a visit, especially as it can easily be combined with a visit to the rather wonderful Star and Garter in the centre of town.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletions from Guide: Brodies, King William IV, Rocky Head

Posted 2018-02-26 10:21:33

I've deleted two breweries from the Guide: firstly Brodies, who've been brewing at another location outside London for some time. The original plan was for this to be a temporary arrangement pending a return to Leyton, but it seems this is now a permanent arrangement. Their pub in Leyton, King William IV - the original home of the brewery - has also been sold and so we've removed it from the Guide until we see what the new owners do with it.

The second brewery deletion is Rocky Head, who have closed their Southfields brewery - according to a report in London Drinker. We understand they plan to continue through a sharing arrangement with another brewery, but have no further information on this. I really hope they do find a way to continue brewing as I have always really enjoyed their beers.

The total number of London breweries falls to 108 as a result of these changes:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Beer Merchants Tap, Hackney Wick

Posted 2018-02-23 02:41:27

The Hackney Wick beer scene started off with Crate Brewery, which opened just before the 2012 Olympics. It's been great to watch the area slowly develop since then, and with the opening of Beer Merchants Tap, it is now firmly established as one of London's best areas for good beer.

The new Beer Merchants Tap is superb and a destination in its own right - well worth a special journey - but factor in Mason & Co, Howling Hops - as well as Crate - and you've got four great places within a 10 minute walk. Visit soon and enjoy.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: 7000 Jars of Beer, Kingston

Posted 2018-02-21 11:21:59

Another bottle shop bar, but a really nice one - this time in the very centre of Kingston upon Thames - with a very good selection of around 230 beers for take away or drinking on site.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Addition to brewery list: Camden Town Brewery (Enfield)

Posted 2018-02-19 11:58:01

I realised at the weekend that we still only had one listing for Camden Town Brewery on our London brewery list, but they are continuing to brew both at the original brewery in Kentish Town as well as the much larger new brewery in Enfield.

Following confirmation via Twitter that this is the case, I have now added a second entry on our list to reflect this. Look out for their new #Arch55 projects coming soon at Kentish Town.

This increases the total number of London breweries to 110. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Brewery updates: one in, one out

Posted 2018-02-17 04:38:28

Hops and Glory brewpub on Essex Road, N1 has now closed - both the pub and brewery. While its future is uncertain, there are rumours that brewing may return, so watch this space. In the meantime we've deleted both pub and brewery from our list.

Tiny Vessel is not a new brewery, but its one we've previously missed. Brewing in Hampton on the same estate as Oddly - but in a different unit - their presence only came to light quite recently so we've added them to our list.

The total of London breweries remains 109:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Moor Beer Co Vaults & Tap Room

Posted 2018-01-28 05:20:18

Just when you thought it was safe to visit Bermondsey again, this new gem appears on the mile: Moor Beer Co Vaults & Tap Room, almost next door to Brew By Numbers.

The excellent beers from Moor Beer Co make this a must visit destination, and with barrel ageing to follow there are sure to be many more great beers emerging from this arch in months and years to come.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: German Kraft Beer Tap Room

Posted 2018-01-28 05:16:39

Elephant and Castle's Mercato Metropolitano is fast becoming a must visit destination for both food and beer, and the beer offer has been improved further with the addition of this impressive brewpub, German Kraft Beer. Exclusively focussed on German style beers, they are offering something a bit different in London and their tap room is well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Long Arm (at Ealing Park Tavern)

Posted 2018-01-17 23:57:15

Long Arm have closed their original brewery at the Ealing Park Tavern, with all production now coming from their Worship Street site, EC2. This deletion from the list reduces the number of London breweries to 109:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Deviant and Dandy

Posted 2018-01-10 12:17:05

Deviant and Dandy have now done their first brew at their new brewery in Hackney, so we've added them to our list. They become the 110th brewery in London (though it seems Long Arm may no longer be brewing at their Ealing Park Tavern site, so the number may swiftly return to 109). The full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

As well as having a great name, Deviant and Dandy are notable as their owner Byron was one of the founders of Beavertown, so the brewery has excellent pedigree.

There's a launch party at the brewery on Fri 26 Jan from 7pm. Details here:

http://deviantanddandy.com/its-party-time/

More London brewery updates + final 2017 numbers

Posted 2017-12-30 04:52:36

Plato Brewing, who used to have a unit at Netil Market, Hackney, appear to have moved out of London and we understand they are now brewing in Dorset. We've therefore deleted them from our London brewery list. I am not clear why their website is silent on the subject of their current location....

The old brewkit at the Florence, Herne Hill, is now back up and running, being used as a 'training academy'. with brews by the trainees now being found on the bar at the pub. We've therefore reinstated this as a new London brewery, though arguably it may sit better in the brewpubs list. Let's see where the beer ends up in the future.

Project 88 is a new brewery based at or very near Beer & Burger, Willesden Green, and you can find several of their beers on the bar. We have little information on this at the moment but we've added them as a new London brewery.

These last minute changes take the total number of current London breweries to a year end total of 109, a net increase for the year of 13:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: The Aeronaut, Acton

Posted 2017-12-28 12:11:40

A year ago there was a serious fire at The Aeronaut - the Laine Brewing venue in Acton. Fortunately nobody was hurt but they were out of action for most of 2017. They reopened just before Christmas, but it has now been confirmed that the on site brewery is no more and won't be returning, so we have deleted it from our brewery list.

The total number of breweries in London returns to 108:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: German Kraft Brewery

Posted 2017-12-28 00:21:48

German Kraft Brewery are now up and running, brewing a range of Germany-inspired beers on their new kit in Mercato Metropolitano, Elephant & Castle. We think most of their production will be served on site so we've added them as a new brewpub.

This brings the total number of London breweries up to 109:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from Guide: Wimbledon Brewery Tap

Posted 2017-12-27 04:49:56

The brewery tap at Wimbledon Brewery is no longer opening, mainly due to lack of space following an expansion of the brewery. There is a shop, however, open Mon to Fri 11-5 for off sales only.

Deletion from Guide: Duke's Brew & Que

Posted 2017-12-05 11:23:34

Totally out of the blue, Beavertown yesterday announced the immediate closure of Duke's Brew & Que in Haggerston. This was our favourite place for food and beer in London, so we are extremely saddened to hear this news. There is no information about what happened to the staff, and while we assume Beavertown will look after them as best they can, this is terrible news for any staff to receive three weeks before Christmas.

The reason given for the closure is that Duke's 'is no longer a natural fit for Beavertown's future'. While it is clearly none of my business why it has closed, this sounds like the sort of PR speak more normally associated with another well known brewery whose name also begins with B. The odd thing is that a change of direction like this would not normally require immediate closure - and certainly not 3 weeks before Christmas, when most restaurants will be at their busiest - so naturally, customers and other commentators are bound to speculate and assume something more sinister is at play.

If the product and brand no longer align, then the product can be evolved or changed to meet future brand requirements. A restaurant can be closed temporarily, refurbished and relaunched: immediate, permanent closure appears a bit drastic and out of kilter with the 'problem' which has been given as the reason requiring immediate closure.

Whatever the reason, this is a huge loss to London's beer scene. Having first visited early in 2012 a few months after they opened - and when Logan was still brewing in the kitchen - we returned time and again over the last (nearly) 6 years, despite it being located at the other side of London. It was SO well worth the trip and the effort.

We wish Beavertown every success for the future, of course, but I'm not sure they know how brilliant this place and its superb staff team was and just how much it will be missed.

UPDATE: Beavertown have since confirmed that Duke's was not making money, and this is the reason for the sudden closure. I am not sure why this could not have been explained more clearly in the initial annoucement.

New brewery added to list: Hale Brewing, Tottenham Hale

Posted 2017-12-03 04:04:16

Following the relocation of Affinity Brewing to the old Partizan space in Bermondsey, Hale Brewing is now up and running at Five Miles, Tottenham Hale.

They bring the current number of London breweries up to 108:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entries and updates in Bermondsey

Posted 2017-11-19 06:59:51

A full day's research in Bermondsey last week gave us lots of updates for the existing tap rooms in the area, plus three new Guide entries.

We visited the new location for Partizan, and the new tap room for Brew By Numbers and their Guide entries have been updated accordingly.

New entries for Affinity Tap Room (now in Partizan's old location); Bianca Road Tap Room and London Beer Factory's Barrel Project have all now been included in the Guide.

Find all our Bermondsey updates here (third section down):

http://tinyurl.com/y7bh7mcr

New brewery added to list: Pretty Decent Beer Co, Forest Gate

Posted 2017-10-30 10:35:43

There's a new brewery now up and running in Forest Gate, E7. Pretty Decent Beer Co have a range of beers which they say are 'accessible and sessionable', so no names, just beers which apparently do as they say on the label or pump clip - hence IPA, Pale Ale, etc. I say 'apparently' only because I have yet to taste the beers.

They have a tap room which is now open and which we hope to visit soon - hours are on their website but current opening days are Thurs to Sun.

Some of their proceeds go to a water and sanitation project in Africa, reflecting the former career of one of the founders.

The addition of Pretty Decent Beer Co brings the current London total back up to 107:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: London Beer Lab Tap Room

Posted 2017-10-11 12:00:58

London Beer Lab shared a tap room in Loughborough Junction with Clarkshaw's for a while, but they've now opened their own in their original brewery close to the centre of Brixton. It is well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Mother Kelly's SE1

Posted 2017-10-11 11:59:16

The new Mother Kelly's in Vauxhall is really excellent - so much so that we are delighted to nominate it as a Guide 'top pick'. The beer list is as you'd expect from the original MK in Bethnal Green, but the surroundings we like even more.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: Old Street Brewery (Queen's Head)

Posted 2017-10-04 10:33:14

I understand that brewing has stopped and the equipment removed from the Queen's Head near Kings Cross, so we have deleted their called 'Old Street Brewery' from our list.

The London total falls to 106. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Royal Oak, W1

Posted 2017-08-17 07:44:34

There's another good beer bar in Marylebone, not far from the Globe which opened in 2015. This one - the Royal Oak - is a sister pub to Stoke Newington's Prince, and while the selection is perhaps not quite as good as that in the Prince, it still merits a new entry in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Richmond Tap Tavern

Posted 2017-08-17 07:41:53

Richmond upon Thames has a new beer bar, right in the centre of town. Richmond Tap Tavern offers an excellent range of beers and we are delighted to include it in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Craft Beer Co, Clapham

Posted 2017-08-01 04:12:08

Craft Beer Co's Clapham pub is now closed. A new pub/bar called 'Clapham Tap' is taking its place - but we are pretty certain this has no connection with the Euston Tap, Waterloo Tap etc mini chain.

We really liked Craft in Clapham and are sorry to see it go. However, it is disappointing to note that Craft Beer Co have been completely silent on the matter, leaving it to us punters to find out ourselves through word of mouth. Indeed, the pub is still listed prominently on their website.

This is very odd and dispiriting. Surely customers deserve better communication than this? If there was a lease issue or the site didn't work as planned, then why not just announce it - surely saying something is better than nothing? Mind you, Craft have previous in this regard, having announced a new opening in Croydon last year which never materialised. Again, there was no announcement and it was left to bemused punters to figure it out for themselves.

We are not impressed by this complete lack of communication from Craft Beer Co, who, in contrast, are prolific on social media when opening new sites and want to spread the word. Why not the same for closures and the like? I think customers deserve better than to be taken for granted in this way.

Deletion from Guide: Hop Burns and Black Can Station

Posted 2017-07-30 08:35:56

It was only ever intended as a summer pop up, but as summer has given up the ghost early this year, the Hop Burns and Black pop up Can Station is now closed. Hopefully we will see it return in due course, but for now we've deleted it from the Guide.

New Guide entry: Kill the Cat, Brick Lane, E1

Posted 2017-07-30 08:33:54

We finally got a chance to visit Kill the Cat, a very stylish bottle shop/tasting room on Brick Lane. It's been open a while now and seems to be doing very well. Three draft beers plus all the bottles are available for on-site drinking.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Hop and Berry, Islington

Posted 2017-07-29 09:54:28

News reached the Guide this week of the closure of Hop and Berry, Islington. We really liked this place, which focused primarily on London beers, so we are sorry to hear of its demise.

Three new London breweries

Posted 2017-07-16 04:26:18

I've added three new breweries to our list, as follows;

Long Arm Worship Street - a new brewpub in Shoreditch from the Long Arm Brewing Co people.

Boxcar Brewery, based in Homerton.

Jeffersons Brewery, based in Barnes.

The total number of breweries in London rises to 106. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Clarkshaws and London Beer Lab

Posted 2017-07-15 04:10:39

The number of breweries in London has increased by one with the end of the London Beer Lab and Clarkshaws sharing arrangement at the Beer Hive.

My understanding is that London Beer Lab now brew alone at the Beer Hive, and Clarkshaws now have their own brewery (and tap room) at Ridgway Road, SW9.

The total number of breweries on our list is now 103:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Four new Guide entries

Posted 2017-07-13 11:51:16

I've added four new Guide entries, including one new Top Pick:

The Axe: new sister pub to the wonderful Kings Arms, E2, this place is another superb pub and a new Guide Top Pick: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.278

Angel of Bow: the 1st pub from Redemption Brewing Co is now open in Bow: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.276

House of Hammerton: the 1st pub from Hammerton Brewery is now open on the Holloway Road: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.279

Five Points Summer Tap is also now open on Saturdays during July and August: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.277

New Guide entry: Brewheadz Tap Room, Tottenham Hale

Posted 2017-06-12 11:50:01

Tottenham Hale has another brewery tap, a short and very pleasant walk from Beavertown. If you like quieter breweries then this newer one will provide respite after the crowds and queues at Beavertown. The beer's pretty good too, and you are sure to get a friendly welcome.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Pillars Brewery Tap Room

Posted 2017-06-12 11:34:26

The second brewery in the Ravenswood Industrial Estate, a 10 minute walk from Walthamstow Central, is rather good. Pillars Brewery aims to 'reinvent' lager and on early evidence they are doing some pretty good beers. The tap room provides an excellent view of the shiny brewery.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Great Northern Railway Tavern

Posted 2017-06-12 10:34:58

This is another example of Fullers showing great imagination and willingness to embrace modern trends: yes it's a Fullers pub, but the branding is low key and the beer range is dominated by guest beers from a range of high quality breweries. We really enjoyed our first visit and are very happy to recommend this excellent pub.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bohem Brewery Tap Room

Posted 2017-06-09 10:31:56

If you want to experience a London brewery doing something different - and doing it well - then check out Bohem Brewery's new tap room in Bowes Park. We think you'll find it's rather good!

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Douglas Fir, Anerley

Posted 2017-06-09 10:15:15

We finally got a chance to visit Gipsy Hill Brewery's micropub in Anerley, The Douglas Fir, which opened as a pop up last year and finally on a permanent basis earlier in 2017.

We really enjoyed our visit and are happy to include the pub in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: HB&B Can Station at Serious Pig, Peckham Rye

Posted 2017-06-08 12:55:07

Hop Burns and Black have teamed up with Serious Pig to offer a unique 'can station' and bar much closer to Peckham Rye station than their original shop. Teaming up with Serious Pig means some serious cans available just a few arches down from Brick Brewery. This one looks like it will be a winner!

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Star and Garter, Bromley

Posted 2017-05-28 09:31:57

Bromley has its first Guide entry: Star & Garter, the excellent sister pub to Camberwell's Stormbird. It has one of the best beer ranges of any 2017 Guide entry to date, and is well worth a special trip.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Four new Guide entries, three in West London

Posted 2017-05-28 09:29:26

I've added four new entries to the Guide, including 3 very good new additions in West London. They are:

Hop Locker 3: now open in a container on the South Bank, 7 days a week for the summer:

http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.265

Dodo Micropub: out in Hanwell, serving fantastic gravity casks and a nice bottled range: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.266

Owl and Pussycat: the brewery tap/micro brew pub for Marko Paulo Brewery, in Northfields: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.267

Hansom Cab: the latest offering from the Pubs of Distinction group, in Kensington/Earls Court: http://beerguideldn.com/pubs.268

Belgian Beer Festival, 21-22 July 2017

Posted 2017-05-14 12:44:08

There's a new Belgian Beer Festival called 'Ales Tales Festival' on at Oval Space, E2 (near Bethnal Green - in the former London Craft Beer Festival space) on 21-22 July. The initial list of breweries - see below - looks promising and more will be announced in due course.

Full details can be found here:

http://alestales.com/

London brewery updates: one in, one out, one new name

Posted 2017-05-05 01:11:45

There have been three recent changes to London breweries, as follows:

Left Bank (Walthamstow) have stopped brewing at their Blackhorse Workshop site, with the brewer relocating to Wales. He plans to continue brewing 'at various locations', pending finding a new site in Powys. As they are no longer brewing on their own kit in London I have deleted them from our brewery list.

Oddly Beer have now started brewing on their own kit in Hampton, which is in LB Richmond upon Thames and so I've added them as a new London brewery. They were previously brewing at Clouded Minds in Warwickshire.

Finally, the brewpub at the Bull, Highgate has been renamed Gorgeous Brewery, and our list of breweries has been updated accordingly.

The total of current London breweries remains at 102, though there are a few I need to get updates on.

New Guide entry: Caps and Taps, Kentish Town

Posted 2017-03-26 09:03:09

Caps and Taps is another excellent bottle shop bar which, as well as a stellar beer range to take away, now offers on site drinking. It's small and basic, but a good place to stop for a couple of beers - and you're sure to find something of interest. Close to both Camden Town Brewery and their bar on Kentish Town Road, Camden's Daughter.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Forest Road Tap Room, Hackney

Posted 2017-03-26 08:59:15

Forest Road brew in Belgium, but their tap room is right next to Netil Market in London Fields, Hackney. We really enjoyed our first visit here - expect around 6 beers on draft including some Forest Road beers + guests, including the outstanding Hommelbier from Van Eecke in Watou, where Forest Road currently brew.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer and Burger, Willesden Green

Posted 2017-03-22 13:17:02

A few years ago if someone had told you they were opening a place like this with a, quite frankly, oustanding beer list in a location like this you'd have thought they were off their rocker. Now it seems like quite a normal and eminently sensible idea, and judging by a steady trade on my Monday night visit it seems the locals agree. The list of over 300 bottles and 20 excellent drafts is one of the best in London. The burgers aren't half bad either....

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Italian Job, Notting Hill

Posted 2017-03-22 13:13:21

London's second Italian Job - the third if you count their excellent venue at Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle - might well be even better than their first in Chiswick. With 14 taps and two cask beers, it certainly has the potential. An imposing corner pub, it's been given an up market refurb yet retains a lot of character and comfort. We will watch how the locals take to such a high quality offering of mainly Italian beer with interest.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewpub added to list: Block Brewery (at Wenlock Arms)

Posted 2017-03-09 12:42:42

Wenlock Arms now have a brewery downstairs - Block Brewery - and as their beers have been seen on the bar at the Wenlock I've now added them to our list.

London total rises to 102:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewpub added to list: PWA (at White Hart, SE14)

Posted 2017-03-09 12:35:21

I've added PWA to the list - yes, 'Paddys With Attitude' - who I am reliably informed have started brewing at the White Hart, SE14. Apparently their first beer - an 8.5% IIPA - was rather good. Reports welcome.

This brings the London total up to 101:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Belleville Brewery Tap

Posted 2017-03-04 03:05:02

Belleville Brewery's tap room is now open, upstairs in the brewery right next to Wandsworth Common station. This provides a great opportunity to try their range of American inspired beers at source. The tap room is cosy and welcoming and a visit is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Nirvana Brewery

Posted 2017-02-19 04:28:24

Nirvana Brewery have now started brewing a range of entirely low and no alcohol beers at their brewery in East London.

Their aim is to 'create a range of alcohol free beers in a way without compromising on quality or taste...not sat lonely on a different shelf but rather sat alongside all the other good quality craft beers'.

Initial beers will include Karma Lager, Kosmic Stout and Mantra IPA and they are expected to be ready by April.

Nirvana's addition brings the total number of current London breweries on our list up to 100:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Brewery Below

Posted 2017-02-13 12:26:14

Brewery Below - so named as they are below Borough Wines on Essex Road, N1 - have now started brewing, becoming the 99th current brewery in London. Reports of their beers will be welcome.

New brewpub added to list: George & Dragon, W1

Posted 2017-01-29 06:38:28

The George & Dragon on Cleveland St, W1 (Fitzrovia) has now commenced brewing, thereby becoming the only current brewpub in the West End. Their first beer should be ready on or around 19 February.

They become the 98th current London brewery on our list:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Goose Island Vintage Ale House

Posted 2017-01-22 09:29:20

Goose Island have spent a lot of money on this place, but what a great job they've done. This place is comfortable and atmospheric yet very classy indeed. Friendly staff, good food, good beer - what's not to like?

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Ghost Whale, Brixton

Posted 2017-01-22 09:27:14

Brixton has another excellent beer destination with the recent opening of Ghost Whale, an excellent bottle shop bar offering over 300 beers. A short walk from Brixton Brewery this one is well worth a visit for its excellent range to either drink in or take home.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Neckstamper Brewing

Posted 2017-01-17 10:17:56

The first new addition to our London brewery list in 2017 is Neckstamper Brewing, based in Lea Valley, E10. Initial beers from their 10 barrel kit include a Craft Lager, an APA and an IPA.

The total number of London breweries on our list rises to 97:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Magic Spells Brewery

Posted 2016-12-27 09:57:47

Magic Spells Brewery have now started brewing in Leyton, E10. Initial beers include 4.2% Magic Hare, and an IPA at 5.5%. Rapid expansion is planned over the next two years.

They become the 96th current London brewery on our list, here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Four new Guide entries

Posted 2016-12-27 04:55:28

We have a flurry of excellent new Guide entries to finish the year: a new BrewDog in Homerton; a new Craft Beer Co bar in Limehouse; the Mermaid in Clapton - from the people behind the King's Arms, Bethnal Green - and a brand new Cronx Brewery bar in Croydon's Boxpark.

Find then all in our Pubs section using the 'New enrty in the Guide in 2016' filter, here:

http://beerguideldn.com/tagarea.php?tag=16

New brewery added to list: BrewHeadZ

Posted 2016-12-14 09:56:44

Another brewery based in Tottenham (Rosebery Industrial Estate, N17), BrewHeadZ have have a 4 barrel brewery and 4 x 8 barrel fermenters. They are now brewing so we've added them to our list as the 95th current London brewery.

Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Muswell Hillbilly Brew

Posted 2016-12-08 00:44:36

Muswell Hillbilly Brew are now up and running, brewing commercially on their 50l kit in N10. Things are going well as they plan to triple production next year.

This brings the total number of current breweries in London up to 94:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Southey Brewing Co

Posted 2016-12-07 12:07:56

Southey Brewing Co are the first of the two breweries expected to emerge from the ashes of Late Knights, and they are now up and running. Their beers launched last week and should now be available in their London pub, Brockley's London Beer Dispensary.

The total number of breweries in London rises to 93:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Two Finches Brewery

Posted 2016-12-03 06:50:14

Two Finches Brewery are a new nano brewery based at Finchley Cricket Club. While most production is for the club, we understand that their beers are also available elsewhere.

The total number of current London breweries on our list is now 92:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Micro Beers, East Sheen

Posted 2016-12-01 00:52:18

At the Guide we really like the new generation of bottle shop bars, and Micro Beers is another excellent example. Bringing great beer to an area which really needed it, Micro Beers offers over 200 beers to drink in or take away.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new breweries: Marko Paulo Beers + Villages Brewery

Posted 2016-11-23 00:51:52

Marko Paulo Beers in Ealing and Village Brewery, Deptford have both started brewing, so we've added them to our list.

The total number of London breweries is now up to 91:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Affinity Brew Co

Posted 2016-11-22 10:49:56

Affinity Brew Co have now commenced brewing at their new brewery in Tottenham so we've added them to our list of London breweries. The total number of current breweries rises to 89, and a full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Affinity will be opening their tap room - a short distance from Beavertown - on Sat 10 December from 10am to 4pm; then again on 17th December (opening times TBC). After a break for Christmas and New Year they will resume weekly opening from Sat 7 Jan.

New Guide entry: The Hop Locker 2

Posted 2016-11-20 08:48:54

This is only a temporary location for the Winter period - until 8th January - but it's so good it has to have its own Guide entry. Expect the usual excellent beer on the 12 shiny new taps, alongside excellent customer service from the very friendly and helpful team.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Albion, Kingston

Posted 2016-10-26 11:40:13

We have our first Guide entry in Kingston, and it's a new 'Top Pick'. The Albion, sister pub to Surbiton's Antelope and other great pubs like the Sussex Arms in Strawberry Hill, is another pub from the people behind Big Smoke Brew Co.

With 35 draft beers and ciders, along with over 40 bottles, it has one of the biggest and best draft beer selections in London and comes very highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two new breweries added to our list

Posted 2016-10-16 04:01:00

Streatham Brewing Co and Pillars Brewery have both now started brewing so we've moved them from 'planned' to 'current', bringing the total number of current London breweries to 88.

Pillars Brewery started off as Four Pillars but are in the process of rebranding.

Streatham Brewing Co's first beer - Cynthia's Remedy Black IPA - can be found in the Railway Pub, Streatham.

The full list of London breweries can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Old Street Brewery (at Queen's Head WC1)

Posted 2016-10-13 07:47:37

We are pleased to report that brewing has restarted in the cellar under the Queen's Head, WC1, but this time under the name Old Street Brewery.

This potentially confusing name reflects where the brewers (who work at sister bar Mother Kelly's in Bethnal Green) originally homebrewed, and there is no link either with the Fountain Brewhouse at the Old Fountain near Old Street, nor is there any geographic link with the aforementioned street.

We look forward to trying the beers, the first of which is a NE coast IPA, due around the end of October.

The total number of breweries on our London list is now up to 86.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewpub added to list: Fountain Brewhouse

Posted 2016-09-19 00:46:29

Brewing has now fully started at the Old Fountain (Old Street) so we've added their 'Fountain Brewhouse' to our list of brewpubs. The total number of current London breweries rises once again to 85.

Full list here:http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Cricklewood Brewing

Posted 2016-08-31 01:58:54

Cricklewood Brewing are now up and running so we've added them to our list of current London breweries. I don't have much additional information but their beers - including one called Holy Smoke - have been seen on sale at the Crown on Cricklewood Broadway.

This brings the current number of London breweries back up to 84. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Two brewery deletions from Guide

Posted 2016-08-29 03:24:06

We've deleted both Bloomsbury Brewery and the Queen's Head from our list of current London breweries. The former has apparently stopped brewing following a change of management at its Perseverance Pub, and the latter has not been seen brewing for some time. Hopefully this is a temporary pause so we will add them back to our list later if brewing restarts. For the avoidance of doubt, neither pub has closed - it's just the brewing which appears to have stopped.

This reduces the number of current London breweries to 83. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Update on Late Knights Brewery and bars

Posted 2016-08-28 07:23:24

It appears there has been a major breakdown in relations at the top of Late Knights Brewery. It's a complex and confusing story, but here are the facts as we understand them:

Late Knights had 7 pubs plus the brewery. Brewing has ceased and we have therefore deleted them from our brewery list. One of the bars, Hopsmiths in Crouch Hill, has closed, apparently permanently, so we have deleted its Guide entry.

The other six pubs have been split into two groups of three, as follows:

1) Beer Rebellion Gipsy Hill, Beer Rebellion Peckham and Beer Rebellion Sydenham;

2) London Beer Dispensary, Brighton Beer Dispensary and The Ravensgate Arms (Ramsgate).

Each group of three is now under different ownership. Neither will carry Late Knights branding but both intend to continue to brew, though obviously only one has an actual brewery at present. We understand that a company called Erimus Brewing/Erimus Pubs and Bars now owns the first group of pubs, and that a company called Southey Brewing owns the second group, but this is yet to be confirmed.

To reflect the future brewing plans of both companies I have added two new future breweries to our list - Erimus Brewing and Southey Brewing.

I hope we have reported this correctly but of course any corrections or amendments will be welcome.

Many thanks to John Cryne at London Brewers, Des de Moor (who knows a lot more about everything than I do) and Emma Stump for excellent detective work.

More news as we get it.

New Guide entry: Italian Job at the Mercato Metropolitano

Posted 2016-08-20 04:32:53

The people behind Chiswick's Italian Job have opened their second location in London, at the new Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle. Arrive thirsty and hungry as the market has numerous excellent food options. This is the second of at least four locations planned by the Italian Job people, and I am already looking forward to the next one.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Three Sods brewery tap

Posted 2016-08-18 00:15:08

We were sorry to hear of the closure of the tap room at Three Sods Brewery. We understand there have been licencing issues and its future is uncertain. If and when it reopens we will put it back in the Guide, but for the foreseeable future it is closed. Good luck to Three Sods and I hope to see their tap room back open in due course.

New brewery added to list: Bianca Road Brew Co, Peckham

Posted 2016-08-07 05:00:44

Bianca Road Brew Co in Peckham have now started brewing so we've added them to our list as the 86th current brewery in London. They 'specialise in a range of West Coast American style beers' but we don't have much more information so any reports will be welcome.

New Guide entry: Charlotte's W5

Posted 2016-08-03 00:07:42

We finally have a Guide entry in Ealing. Charlotte's W5 is something a bit different: a bar/restaurant who've been working with Melissa Cole on their beer, and the results have immediately paid off. Expect a small but high quality range of keg beers, along with some very good low/no alcohol beers. We really like this place and look forward to a return visit soon.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Beerblefish Brewing Co

Posted 2016-08-03 00:03:39

Beerblefish Brewing Co are now up and running so we've added them to our list of current London breweries. They started off at UBrew in Bermondsey but now have their own 5BBL brewing kit in Edmonton, north London. Reports welcome.

The total number of London breweries is now up to 85:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New brewery added to list: Enfield Brewery

Posted 2016-07-17 07:31:59

Enfield Brewery are now up and running and their first beers have been released. This brings the total number of London breweries up to 84. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry; The Stag, NW3

Posted 2016-07-17 05:14:58

This is the second pub from the 'London Pubs' group, and like their other pub - the Mall Tavern in Notting Hill - this is a high quality pub with a serious beer offer. While there are many good choices on the draft lines, check out the bottled list for a really good range including quite a few large bottles to share.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer Boutique, Wandsworth

Posted 2016-07-17 04:54:53

Beer Boutique have now opened their second branch, just a mile up the road from the Putney original, in Wandsworth. Less than a minute from Wandsworth Town station, this second branch is smaller than Putney but still manages to squeeze in around 150 beers, any of which you're welcome to drink on site for an additional Â£1 charge. The beer selection is great and it's a cosy place with a bar area downstairs.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Prince, N22

Posted 2016-07-17 04:34:32

Not to be confused with the Prince N16 (Stoke Newington) - another new entry in the Guide earlier this year - the Prince N22 (between Wood Green and Bounds Green stations on the Piccadilly Line) provides a similarly excellent range of beers. Brought to you by the people behind Duke's Head Highgate, this is one to watch.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Chesham Arms

Posted 2016-07-17 04:05:02

Chesham Arms reopened a year ago following a long local campaign to save it from extinction. Now thriving, it has recently been recognised by the local CAMRA branch as it's Pub of the Year 2016. We finally visited this week and are delighted it's now in our Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Mason and Company

Posted 2016-07-17 03:27:22

Mason and Company is now open right by the canal in Hackney Wick, just up from Crate Brewery. Making an excellent mini crawl with Howling Hops and Crate, Mason and Company is very modern and stylish, but most importantly it has an excellent list of around 70 beers including 20 drafts.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Bohem Brewery

Posted 2016-07-16 08:18:40

Based in Bowes Park, north London, Bohem Brewery are now up and running. Producing a range of Czech lagers, they describe themselves as the 'First Bohemian Brewery in London'.

We've tried their first beer - Victoria Pils, on draft at the new Prince, N22 - and thought it was rather good. On the basis of their first beer we're looking forward to more.

This brings the London total up to 83 breweries, with more in the pipeline.

New Guide entry: We Brought Beer (Tooting)

Posted 2016-06-20 12:20:57

We Brought Beer have now opened their third branch, this in a tiny unit in Tooting Market. It may be small, but they've still managed to fit in a range of around 200 bottles and cans, along with 3 drafts of the highest quality. When visiting, be sure to check out neighbouring Broadway Market, where you'll find Craft Tooting, another tiny bottle shop bar with a good range of beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Craft Tooting

Posted 2016-06-20 11:40:48

Not to be confused with Craft Beer Co, Craft Tooting is a new and completely independent operation which has just opened in a tiny unit in Tooting's Broadway Market. The beer range is high quality and service is friendly and efficient. When visiting, be sure to check out neighbouring Tooting Market, where you'll find a new branch of the excellent We Brought Beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Wimbledon Brewery Tap

Posted 2016-06-12 11:03:43

Wimbledon Brewery now open their doors every Saturday, but this is a brewery tap with something extra: a small food and drink market of the very highest quality. Situated less than 10 minutes' walk from Colliers Wood station on the Northern Line this is well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer Boutique, Putney

Posted 2016-06-12 11:02:24

Beer Boutique in East Putney has been open for a few years now, but was originally just a bottle shop. It's now a hybrid 'bottle shop bar' with on site drinking, and hence now qualifies for a Guide entry. Enjoy any of the bottles for a nominal additional charge, or one of the two draft beers in lovely surroundings. The second branch has just opened in Wandsworth and we look forward to visiting soon.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Bear, Camberwell

Posted 2016-06-12 11:01:10

The Fox in Dalston now has a new sister pub, The Bear in Camberwell. The beer range and ambience here is similar to that of The Fox, so high quality is guaranteed. The staff are welcoming and friendly and this old pub has been given a great new lease of life. Take a bus from Oval tube or it's walkable from Denmark Hill on the overground.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Sambrook's Brewery Tap

Posted 2016-06-12 10:53:13

In common with many London breweries, Sambrook's now has its own brewery tap, offering a range of their beers on cask, keg and bottles. About 10 minutes' walk from Clapham Junction the tap room is a relatively small but relaxed upstairs space offering views into the brewery.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery: One Mile End (Tottenham)

Posted 2016-05-23 13:11:16

London's brewery total has risen to 82 with the start of brewing at the new One Mile End production brewery in Tottenham. They will continue to brew in their original brewpub in Whitechapel so this counts as an additional brewery.

They have a 12.5 BBL kit and already have their first 3 brews in the fermenters: Snakecharmer IPA, Tinker's Cuss Rye IPA, and Salvation! Pale Ale which will all be available from the end of May. Watch out for barrel aging later, plus the obligatory tap room which is also coming soon.

New Guide entry: Draft House Old Street

Posted 2016-05-22 05:21:43

The people behind the rapidly expanding Draft House chain have now opened two new bars in a matter of weeks. Following the opening of their Chancery Lane bar in April, they have now opened another new bar in The Bower building at Old Street - right next to the Old Fountain. In common with their other branches this bar has an excellent bottled list to complement a fine draft selection on both cask and keg.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery: Solvay Society

Posted 2016-05-11 11:41:23

We've added a new brewery to the list. Solvay Society - previously brewing in the cellar of the Hops and Glory pub - have moved into the former Ha'penny Brewery premises in Ilford and have now done their first brew.

Look out for some big hitting Belgian styles and some excellent beer, if their initial beers from the Hops and Glory premises are anything to go by.

The London brewery total is now 81 and the full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Pitt Cue Co (Alphabeta Brewery Tap)

Posted 2016-05-08 09:00:16

Pitt Cue Co now have their own BBQ restaurant very close to Liverpool Street station. It houses their own Alphabeta Brewery, which is tucked in behind the bar. The bar is open all day for those who just want to come in for a drink, though the food looks great and comes highly recommended by many who've known the company since they started in a food truck on the South Bank. Beer was impressive on our first visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Draft House Chancery Lane

Posted 2016-05-08 08:34:05

The latest addition to the Draft House chain is now open just a few minutes walk from Chancery Lane tube. It's a lovely place - ultra modern but comfortable and welcoming, with an outstanding bottled beer range. About 5 minutes' walk from Craft Beer Co Leather Lane.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Three Sods Brewery Tap

Posted 2016-05-08 08:22:05

Three Sods Brewery now open their tap room in an old basement room in Bethnal Green Working Men's Club, home of the tiny brewery (which is located in the cellar). Open evenings only from Weds to Sat, this one is a real throw back with the added bonus of good beer. Close to Kings Arms, Mother Kelly's and Redchurch Brewery Tap this is therefore in very good crawl territory.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London breweries: Alphabeta Brewery and Signal Lager

Posted 2016-04-17 08:47:40

We have added two new London breweries to our brewery list this week.

Firstly, Alphabeta Brewery, based at their own Pitt Cue Co restaurant in Devonshire Square, EC2M (near Liverpool Street and Spitalfields Market). Their initial beers sound quite interesting: they include a smoked porter and a red rye. It is possible to visit Pitt Cue Co just for drinks, but if you're planning to eat booking is recommended. Note that they are closed at weekends so it's only open Monday to Friday only (and they are closed on bank holidays too).

Secondly, Signal Lager, who are now brewing on their own 10BBL kit in Croydon, complete with their own canning line.

The full list of London breweries can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Beer Guide London apps available now

Posted 2016-04-11 11:29:31

We now have apps for both Android and iPhone/iPad.

The Android app is available here:

bit.ly/1ZN7EeA

And the iPhone/iPad app is available here:

apple.co/1j0mVsI

New Guide entry: The Taproom, SE18

Posted 2016-04-10 10:54:06

We finally made the journey out to Woolwich Arsenal for an evening at Hop Stuff Brewery's excellent tap room, which opened in autumn 2015. We really like this place and are delighted it's now in the Guide. Just a few minutes from Woolwich Arsenal station, it is well worth a special journey.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Mall Tavern, W8

Posted 2016-04-10 10:43:19

Our new Guide entry The Mall Tavern is a corner pub near Notting Hill Gate offering a beer range far superior to anything else in the immediate vicinty. It is therefore a most welcome addition to our Guide's West London section, which is slowly but surely expanding all the time.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Mitre, Richmond

Posted 2016-03-28 09:19:09

This place is excellent: the new, rather lovingly restored and fully upgraded Mitre, in Richmond out towards North Sheen station. There are some keg beers and a decent selection of cans, but come here for the range of well kept cask beers - 10 in total, plus 4 additional handpumps for cider. Very welcoming and a great addition for the local community in this part of SW London.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Scottish Stores, King's Cross

Posted 2016-03-28 09:15:39

There's now a rather good new beer pub in King's Cross: The Scottish Stores, at the bottom of Caledonian Road. Offering a good range of cask, keg and bottled beers this pub has been rescued from a dodgy past and is immediately one of the best options for good beer in this area of London.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Waterloo Tap, SE1

Posted 2016-03-28 09:12:11

It's been coming for a long time, but the great news is that Waterloo Tap is finally open, under the arches at Sutton Walk, SE1. The bar is located between Waterloo Station and the Royal Festival Hall and is of the usual high standard you'd expect from the people behind the Euston Tap, Resting Hare, Pelt Trader and Holborn Whippet.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Charles Dickens, SE1

Posted 2016-03-28 09:08:57

Long time ale house Charles Dickens, Union Street SE1 has now closed. However, we understand that the people behind the King's Arms, SE1 have taken it over and are planning to re-open it this summer. Watch this space for updates.

Changes to London brewery list

Posted 2016-03-07 13:14:30

Florence Brewery in Herne Hill has stopped brewing so we have deleted them from our list. We understand that there are plans to recruit a new brewer and re-start, so we will watch this space and add them back to our list later should this happen.

Fountain Brewhouse, based at the Old Fountain, EC1, were on our list of current breweries as their own beers had been seen on sale - and tasted by our sources. It turns out, however, that they do not yet have a brewing licence so we've removed them from our list until this is resolved.

Following these changes the number of current London breweries has once again reduced to 78.

New Guide entry: Watson's General Telegraph, SE22

Posted 2016-02-29 12:19:52

Almost exactly a mile south of Hop Burns and Black you'll find a smart new pub callled Watson's General Telegraph. Big on personality, outdoor gardens and vinyl, we also quite like its beer range, which we think is well worth checking out.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Earth Ale Brewery, Balham

Posted 2016-02-25 00:24:14

We've added a new brewery in Balham to our list, bringing the London total to 80. Earth Ales focus on eco-friendly beers and foraging for ingredients. In this case EARTH = 'Eco-friendly, Artisanal, Rural, Terroir & Health'. Check out their website, here:

http://earthale.com

And our current London brewery list can be found here: http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: The King & Co, SW4

Posted 2016-02-17 12:22:43

The King & Co is an excellent new freehouse at the bottom of Clapham Park Road near the junction with Acre Lane. We really like this place and are delighted to put it straight into the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Prince, Stoke Newington

Posted 2016-02-14 11:56:32

The Prince is an excellent new freehouse in Stoke Newington, not far from Jolly Butchers. We were very impressed on our first visit so it's now in the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Weird Beard Tap Room

Posted 2016-02-14 11:53:49

Weird Beard's tap room at the brewery in Hanwell is now opening on a regular basis and it's such a great place to visit we've added it to our Guide. Check their website and Twitter for details on the next opening.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

London brewery updates

Posted 2016-02-10 12:35:22

We've added a new production brewery to our list - Husk Brewing, who have now started brewing in their own 2.5 barrel brewery in West Silvertown/Victoria Dock.

We've also added two new breweries to the list of Planned breweries:

Forest Road Brewing, who have brewed their first beer already at Brouwerij Van Eecke in Watou, Belgium pending completion of their own place in East London.

Streatham Brewing Co, who are hoping to start brewing in March in a space behind the Railway, SW16.

The full list of 79 current breweries - plus the planned breweries - can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: The Sultan

Posted 2015-12-30 12:17:28

Brewing has stopped at the Sultan pub in South Wimbledon. Given that they haven't brewed in many months and plans for future brewing are uncertain we've deleted them from our brewery list.

The year end total is therefore 78 - one fewer than the number with which we started 2015. However we did see around 10 new breweries this year - the reduction in the total is due to some reclassification (i.e. of contract brewers, geography, techno breweries, etc). Current list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Deletion from brewery list: Earl's Brewery

Posted 2015-12-28 07:31:30

Brewing at Earl's Brewery at the Earl of Essex, N1 stopped earlier this year and it was thought that this would be a temporary halt only. Several months later and the pub has now confirmed that there are no immediate plans to start brewing again. For this reason we have deleted Earl's Brewery from our London brewery list, but we look forward to adding them on again should they restart in the future.

This reduces the number of London breweries to 79. Full list here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Reunion Ales, West London

Posted 2015-12-28 02:03:02

It's been a while since we added a new London brewery to our list, so it is very welcome news that Reunion Ales have now started brewing near Hanworth Park, West London. Their addition to the list brings our London brewery total to 80. The full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Burns Night Dinner with beer and whisky pairings at Duke's Head, Highgate

Posted 2015-12-28 01:52:05

On 25 January 2016 at 7pm join resident award winning beer expert Matt Curtis and the team at Duke's Head Highgate for an evening of beer, whisky and a four course menu provided by Scottish street food legends Deeney's - including the obligatory haggis (vegetarian options are of course available). All this served up alongside a tutored tasting where Matt will explain his pairing choices in his own energetic style.

Find more information and the full menu here:

http://www.totalales.co.uk/events-main/2015/12/27/january-25th-2016-pleading-to-the-duke-of-alcohol-a-burns-night-beer-whisky-dinner-at-the-dukes-head-highgate

Tickets - keenly priced at £35 per head - are available here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/220922

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog Clerkenwell

Posted 2015-12-15 14:28:27

BrewDog's 7th London venue - or the 8th if you include BottleDog - is now open in Clerkenwell, very close to Dovetail and 5 mins walk from Craft Leather Lane.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer Rebellion Sydenham

Posted 2015-11-29 08:40:48

The third 'Beer Rebellion' but now one of 5 Late Knights bars in London, this is officially still a temporary pop up but one which is likely to become permanent.

Not the first Late Knights bar to occupy the site of a former bookies, this is a quirky space which will get more lived in as time goes on, but which works well already. Expect friendly staff and a good selection of beers.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Hopsmiths

Posted 2015-11-29 08:24:31

South London brewery Late Knights have expanded their empire of quirky and atmospheric pubs to north London with the opening of The Hopsmiths in Crouch Hill.

This is one of their best and its proximity to Finsbury Park makes it pretty easy to get to for everyone. As well as the excellent range of Late Knights and guest beers check out the food, which is good quality and very good value.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Resting Hare

Posted 2015-11-29 08:05:07

The latest London bar from the people behind the Euston Tap (and Pelt Trader & Holborn Whippet) is now open. It's just round the corner from the Euston Tap and while it doesn't have as many beers you'll always find something good on draft.

Situated in a lovely building which is actually part of a hotel, you'll find the entrance on Woburn Walk, despite the official address of Upper Woburn Place.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Notting Hill Tap (Moncada Brewery)

Posted 2015-11-22 12:15:57

Moncada's tap room - the Notting Hill Tap - is now open, and rather good it is too. As well as being a place high on ambience, the quality of the beers makes this one well worth the trek. Ease the pain of the journey by taking our advice and using the 52 bus from Notting Hill Gate. You'll thank us for it.

As ever with brewery taps, check the opening times carefully before setting out.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Camden's Daughter

Posted 2015-11-16 12:05:29

Camden Brewery have opened another bar near the brewery. Right on busy Kentish Town Road not far from Kentish Town station, Camden's Daughter is rather good. Serving some great guest beers as well as a good range from Camden, we enjoyed our first visit and will definitely be back.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Craft Beer Co, St Mary Axe

Posted 2015-11-12 12:06:08

The latest offering from Craft Beer Co is this excellent City pub very close to the famous Gherkin. Offering the usual high quality beer range, the interior has been fitted out in immaculate fashion with many stunning features - just check out the amazing ceiling.

Immediately installed as a Guide 'Top Pick', we think you'll like this one - but be sure to visit during the week as it's closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog Soho

Posted 2015-11-09 12:14:11

BrewDog have been very busy these last few weeks. Hot on the heels (paws?) of Dog Eat Dog in Angel comes their 6th London venue in Soho.

Being close to Oxford Circus this is one of the most central good beer venues in London and is sure to do well.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bullfinch Brewery Tap

Posted 2015-11-01 11:54:00

This excellent new tap room in Herne Hill is now open. Those who remember Bullfinch's beers when they shared space with Anspach & Hobday will not be surprised to hear that this place is great. Brewing on site has just started so expect more Bullfinch beers on the bar in coming weeks alongside a great line up of of guests.

Opening hours are changing week by week as the brewery gets into full swing so check carefully before setting out (the Bullfinch Twitter account posts the hours each week).

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: We Brought Beer (Clapham Junction)

Posted 2015-10-28 13:06:19

The second branch of the superb We Brought Beer is now open in Clapham Junction on St John's Hill, not far from established Guide entry Powder Keg Diplomacy. Similar to the Balham branch, this one is bigger and even better, with around 450 beers available on a great list.

Check out the upstairs tasting room and the garden out the back, which make this one signifcantly more spacious than the Balham original.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Eebria Tap Room, Bermondsey

Posted 2015-10-21 01:12:58

Nestling under the arches on Almond Road just down from Partizan is the new Eebria Tap Room - a small but smart space opened by the online beer retailers to sell draft and bottled beers every Saturday.

The selection is very high quality, showcasing some of the UK's best breweries, and you are sure to find something of interest. As Almond Road is now open at the bottom end you can also take a handy short cut to Fourpure, this route going under the railway arches twice but overall taking a shorter route.

A welcome addition to the Bermondsey beer scene, a visit to Eebria Tap Room is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Mondo Tap House, Battersea SW8

Posted 2015-10-20 00:43:13

Mondo Brewing Company's smart new tap room is now open - initially Thursday and Friday evenings from 5pm, all day from 12 noon on Saturday and 12 - 6 on Sundays.

We really like this place: the tap room offers excellent views of the brewery along with a great selection of (the rather good) Mondo beer. A visit is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Brixton Brewery Tap, SW9

Posted 2015-10-19 11:59:26

Brixton Brewery Tap is now open every Saturday, so we can put it in the Guide at last! A visit to the tap room can easily be combined with some beers at nearby Craft Beer Co and a huge range of food at Brixton Market and the new-ish Pop Brixton - where incidentally you can sometimes find Brixton Brewery beers on cask.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog Dog Eat Dog, Angel

Posted 2015-10-19 11:40:57

BrewDog's 5th London venue is now open on Essex Road, Angel N1. It's different from the other BrewDog bars in that it's definitely first and foremost a restaurant - you can't just call in for a beer without ordering some food.

But the food is good - if you like gourmet hot dogs - and the sweet potato fries are delicious. The beer list extends to 37 including 12 drafts and is the usual very high quality you'd expect from BrewDog.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Croydon Craft Beer Festival – 16/17 October 2015

Posted 2015-10-12 08:40:04

Next weekend Braithwaite Hall in central Croydon will hold the first Croydon Craft Beer Festival, from 5pm - 10pm on Fri 16 October and 12 noon - 10pm on Sat 17 October.

Beers from more than 20 London breweries will be available, and you can find more info including entrance fee and tickets here:

http://www.croydonbeerfest.co.uk/

New Guide entry: Other Room, Tower Bridge Road, SE1

Posted 2015-10-12 05:58:59

Other Room bar is down the bottom end of Tower Bridge Road, near the Bricklayers' Arms roundabout. Officially opening this Saturday, 17 October, it is currently in a 'soft' opening period, but on our visit last week we found plenty of excellent beer. Fourpure is well represented and check out the bottled fridge for more great choices at very competitive prices.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Globe, Marylebone

Posted 2015-10-12 05:54:48

Not to be confused with the nearby, larger Globe (near Baker Street), this Globe serves a good range of beers including many from London breweries such as Beavertown, Camden Mondo and Hammerton. Other excellent breweries such as Cloudwater were also represented on our first visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from Guide: Lazy Fox, Fulham (pub closed)

Posted 2015-08-15 07:29:10

We are sorry to report the deletion from the Guide of the Lazy Fox in Fulham. This is due to its sudden closure. We are not clear on the reasons for the closure but have been able to confirm that it is definitely a permanent closure.

This is a sad loss as the pub was doing some great beers and seemed to be doing very well.

New Edition of London's Best Beer, Pubs & Bars

Posted 2015-07-29 10:56:08

The 2nd edition of Des de Moor’s essential guide to beer in London is now available.

I know what it's like traipsing round London checking out pubs: sometimes highly rewarding when you find a gem, while at other times you wonder why you've bothered. Des visits way more pubs than I do, and for that reason alone deserves a medal, especially as this is the 2nd, fully updated edition of his guide to London's Best Beer Pubs and Bars.

One line in this excellent book says it all: Des explains that in the 1st edition he had to figure out what he could include to make the 'places to drink' section big enough; this time his biggest challenge was what to leave out. Only 100 of the pubs and bars listed in the 2011 edition survived the cut this time - and of the 152 that didn't make it, only 12 have closed. This is a remarkable statistic reflecting just how far London's beer scene has come in recent years.

Just as remarkable is the startling growth in the number of breweries. The 2011 guide listed just 14, while this new edition lists 70 - a number which has continued to grow post publication.

The main section of the book is the incredibly well researched section showcasing the best places to drink, and there is another listing all of London's breweries. In this edition you'll also find interviews with a number of London drinkers, which adds additional interest, as well as sections on London's brewing history and beer styles. That the latter now includes a new category for London - 'saisons' - tells you all you need to know.

Des once again includes his personal selection of London's top 25 places to drink. Always a risky business, this list is sure to generate lively debate and discussion about what's in and what's not (what, no Euston Tap in the top 25?!).

The book is very highly ecommended and should be considered an essential companion for any London drinker. Buy your copy from CAMRA, here:

Summer party at the Beer Hive, Brixton: Sat 8 Aug, 12 - 8

Posted 2015-07-27 11:29:35

To celebrate the start of London Beer City, the Beer Hive - home of Clarkshaws and London Beer Lab - is holding a summer party on Saturday 8 August from 12 noon to 8pm. Beer and food are available from noon, with live jazz in the evening from Blue - a Camberwell based jazz trio.

London Beer Lab will be launching their new Simcoe and Citra Black IPA and Clarkshaws will have their Cowgirl APA amongst other beers. Mangia Mangia - Italian supper club - will be providing the food.

The brewery is 3 minutes' walk from Loughborough Junction station or a slightly longer walk from Brixton. Further details are available here:

http://www.clarkshaws.co.uk/events

New Guide entry: Ninth Ward, Clerkenwell

Posted 2015-07-21 03:32:22

This new bar just north of the junction of Farringdon Road and Clerkenwell Road claims a New Orleans theme, but - leaving that to one side for a moment - you'll want to come here for the beer: a really excellent list packed with beers from the best of the UK's breweries, plus the likes of Mikeller, Founders, Evil Twin and To-Ol.

In common with many bars in this area, don't turn up on a Saturday or Sunday expecting to find it open.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: London Beer House, just off Haymarket

Posted 2015-07-21 03:31:23

London's West End needs more good beer, so this new opening is very welcome. Just off Haymarket and more or less half way between Piccadilly Circus and Charing Cross you'll find this tiny bar just round the corner from Her Majesty's Theatre. We were impressed with the beer range on our first visit and suspect you might also enjoy.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Two Bit Bar now open under BrewDog Shoreditch

Posted 2015-07-21 02:21:51

BrewDog's new Two Bit Bar is now open under BrewDog Shoreditch. It's got an excellent selection of American beers on draft and in bottle. If you like dark, hidden and atmospheric this one will be right up your street. Open from 6pm Tues to Sun.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

London Craft Beer Festival: Oval Space, 13 - 16 August

Posted 2015-07-03 13:52:47

London Craft Beer Festival returns for a third year at Oval Space, near Bethnal Green, from Thurs 13 August to Sun 16th August. Now one of the unmissable events in the London beer calendar, in our view this is the stand out event during London Beer City (London beer week).

This year LCBF is welcoming a stellar line up of over 30 top brewers from all over the world, including top London breweries Weird Beard, The Kernel, Beavertown, Howling Hops, Redemption Brewing, Camden and Pressure Drop. From the rest of the UK breweries include Magic Rock, Thornbridge, Burning Sky, Siren, Buxton Brewery and Wild Beer.

International breweries represented include Edge Brewing from Barcelona, Omnipollo from Stockholm and Lervig from Norway, while Founders Brewing Co joins from the US.

Alongside the beers will be some great food from some of London’s best known street-food vendors. LCBF’s famous smoked Onglet steak and chips will be back, along with pulled, smoked and roasted Ginger Pig meats from celebrated pop-up Pull & Punch at The Pickle Factory. Charcuterie boards from The Borough Ham & Cheese Co will also be available, as will the ever excellent Big Apple Hot Dogs. Vegetarian options will be on offer from the organic Plump Café.

If you like music with your beer then this is the place for you: Ghostpoet will return for his second year, along with DJ sets from Will Kennard of Chase & Status, Spectrasoul, DJ Yoda, Public Service Broadcasting, Cuban Brothers and Artful Dodger.

Tickets include unlimited small pours of any beer you like and are now available, here:

http://www.londoncraftbeerfestival.co.uk/tickets/

Food meets Beer at Borough Market: 24 - 26 July

Posted 2015-06-23 12:24:54

This new food and drink festival at Borough Market sounds great. Here's more info:

Taking place from 24th to 26th July, Food meets Beer matches dishes from 16 Borough Market traders to beers from 16 breweries around the world. Live demonstrations, cooking master classes and tutorials will offer inspiration for delicious food pairings using seasonal ingredients and unique, speciality products available at the market.

Pairings will include Er Boqueron beer, brewed with sea water from the Mediterranean, matched with products from Brindisa. Partizan beers will be matched with rich and flavoursome Gujarati cuisine, whilst the fine cheeses and cured meats from Une Normande a Londres will be paired with beers from Brasserie d’Achouffe. Desserts will be twinned with eclectic brews by Wild Beer Co., demonstrating the unexpected delight of beer and dessert combinations.

Ticket prices include a guide to matching at home and a half pint of Budvar Tankové Pivo, an unpasteurised beer fresh from the cellars of the brewery in the Czech Republic.

Tickets, including early bird discounts until 5 July, are available here: www.foodmeetsbeer.eventbrite.co.uk but at Beer Guide London we ~~have~~ (HAD - COMPETITION NOW CLOSED) two weekend passes for you to win. Just tweet your answer to the simple question below to @beerguidelondon using the hashtag #foodmeetsbeer and mentioning @boroughmarket in the tweet for your chance to win. First correct answer in the right format wins both tickets!

Competition question: Which well known creature is commonly used to represent Brasserie d'Achouffe?

For further information on the festival venue visit: http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/food-meets-beer-festival

New brewery added to list: Wimbledon Brewery

Posted 2015-06-14 10:07:15

Wimbledon Brewery are doing their first brew tomorrow, Mon 15 June, so we've added them to our list. Reviving the historic old name of Wimbledon Brewery, the brewing is headed up by brewing legend Derek Prentice, so this is one to watch and we await their first beers with interest.

The London brewery total is now 76, comprising 54 production breweries and 22 brewpubs. Full list here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

(with thanks to Wimbledon Brewery for the photo).

New Guide entry: Howling Hops Tap Room

Posted 2015-06-14 09:00:04

Howling Hops Brewery has moved out of the cellar of the Cock Tavern in Hackney and moved to signficantly larger premises in Hackney Wick, immediately making Queen's Yard one of the beeriest addresses in London. Based almost next door to Crate Brewery, this is a huge venue with loads of seating. The beer is served 'tank fresh' from 10 tanks in what they bill as the UK's first dedicated 'tank bar'. There are good food options too.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Another good pub in West London: The Grosvenor, Hanwell

Posted 2015-06-14 08:44:26

We've given a new Guide entry to another good pub in West London, an area finally getting a few pubs serving good beer. Out in the suburbs and in an unlikely location to find a good beer bar, The Grosvenor is an historic old local pub very close to Weird Beard Brewing Co. So it's great to see the pub nearly always serving beers from its local brewery, such as the special Japanese IPA featured in our photo.

You can get to the pub by taking the Piccadilly Line to Boston Manor and then getting a bus north - or you could walk it in about 15 minutes.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Howling Hops brewery and tap room

Posted 2015-05-31 06:36:04

Thanks to Steve Webb for sending this photo of the new Howling Hops brewery, which is due to open within the next week.

The new brewery is located in Queen's Yard, Hackney Wick, very close to Crate Brewery. We will confirm tap room opening hours when we get more information.

The Beer Hive: London's first co-operative brewery

Posted 2015-05-10 05:29:02

Clarkshaws Brewery and London Beer Lab have launched The Beer Hive, London’s first co-operative brewery. They expect more breweries to join the co-op in the next few months, creating a brewing community and enabling tap room visitors to try a wide range of beers and beer styles.

Ian Clark, Director of Clarkshaws Brewery, said:

“The Beer Hive concept was conceived to help small independent breweries create more and better beers. By acting as a cooperative, we can help each other through sharing resources and reducing waste. Our aim is to build a community of small breweries on one site, working together to pool expertise.”

The tap room at the Beer Hive is open every Saturday from 12 noon to 6pm at Arch 283 Belinda Road, off Coldharbour Lane, Loughborough Junction, SW9 7DT. The nearest station is Loughborough Junction but it's also a 15 minute walk from Brixton.

New Guide entry: Four Thieves, Clapham SW11

Posted 2015-04-26 09:06:09

Brewing at this new brewpub near Clapham Junction - and not far from BrewDog CJ - is now in full swing, and the early beers are quite impressive. We particularly enjoyed the IPA on our recent visit, and look forward to trying more of the beers next time.

Sister pub to the People's Park Tavern (Victoria Park) and The Aeronaut (Acton) this Laine Brewing Co venue is typically eclectic and full of character. If you prefer peace and quiet then avoid on weekend evenings as it gets extremely busy.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bean and Hop, Earlsfield SW18

Posted 2015-04-26 08:59:41

This coffee shop/deli near Earlsfield station - and on the way to By the Horns Brewery - now offers a very good range of beer. The two drafts were from local breweries Rocky Head and By the Horns on our first visit, and the 50 or so bottles were generally very high quality and also mainly from local breweries.

Being more coffee shop than beer bar it is not generally open in the evenings, but it does stay open until 10pm on Friday and Saturday, when the menu expands to offer pizza with your beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Startisans, Covent Garden

Posted 2015-04-26 08:47:57

This is an indoor market which does food by day, but on Friday evenings from 5 - 9 it does beer. Beers are from start up breweries, with a local focus, and the set up offers the chance to meet brewers and/or brewery staff, who are keen to talk about their products. Tasters were offered by all the breweries present, which included Hop Stuff, Ink Spot and Canopy on our first visit. With a relaxed but vibrant atmosphere a visit is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Fourteenth Colonie, Clerkenwell

Posted 2015-04-26 08:42:52

This new Clerkenwell bar/restaurant is smart, modern and friendly, and offers an excellent range of beers from some of the top breweries in both the US and the UK.

It's a sister venue to one in Brooklyn, New York, and Brooklyn Brewery features heavily on the beer list. The food looks good too and we'll return soon to try it.

It's near many other good beer places including Jerusalem Tavern and Craft Leather Lane, so it's in a good location for a crawl.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Mondo Brewing Co, Battersea

Posted 2015-04-13 14:23:05

Mondo Brewing Co in Battersea have now starting brewing, so I've added them to our brewery list. More information on the brewery and its beers will follow in due course. The excellent photo below is courtesy of Will Hawkes of Craft Beer London (@craftbeerlondon) and organiser of London Beer City (@londonbeercity). Many thanks to Will for allowing use of this great photo of the brewery.

This brings the London brewery total to 81 and our full current list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: White Hart Brew Pub, Whitechapel E1

Posted 2015-04-13 12:01:09

The White Hart has had its own brewery downstairs for a while now, but initially the beers weren't anything to write home about.

Then later on in 2014 they hired a new brewer and rebranded the brewery as One Mile End, referencing the address of the pub. Suddenly, I started to hear good things about the beer, and having now revisited the pub and tried some of the new beers I am pleased to report that the beers are indeed vastly improved.

The pub serves a good range of their own plus many quality guest beers, and with excellent food and a good atmosphere a visit comes highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: We Brought Beer, Balham SW12

Posted 2015-04-13 11:43:54

We Brought Beer is a new bottle shop which also offers on site tastings and growler fills. The selection here is seriously impressive and stretches to around 350 beers. The photo below gives an idea of the very high quality of the range, which includes many rare and hard to find beers from around the world as well as an excellent selection of beer from London and other UK breweries.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Arbitrager, EC2 (City)

Posted 2015-04-12 12:03:41

The Arbitrager is a new City bar offering a high quality selection of 8 London beers on keg. It's just got one (rather slender) room but it has quite a cosy feel and friendly and welcoming staff. In common with most pubs and bars in this area it's only open Monday to Friday.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer Shop London, Nunhead SE15

Posted 2015-04-12 11:50:10

Beer Shop London is a micropub in Nunhead, very close to the famous cemetery. In common with many other micropubs they offer (very well kept) cask ale by gravity dispense, but perhaps unusually amongst micropubs they also offer an excellent range of around 60 bottled beers.

This pub links well with other Guide entries the Ivy House (at the other side of the cemetery) and Hop Burns & Black and the Flying Pig, both on the way to East Dulwich. A visit is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Hop Locker, South Bank Centre Market, SE1

Posted 2015-04-12 11:36:50

The Hop Locker is a brand new beer bar and bottle shop at the South Bank Centre Market, directly behind the Royal Festival Hall. Boss man Joel really knows his beer, so it's no surprise that the selection of beers on offer is excellent.

They've started with 6 drafts and a well chosen selection of bottles. Everything here is from good breweries so even though the list isn't yet massive, you'll have problems prioritising.

The Market is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (plus bank holidays) but a visit for some of the great food from other stalls - plus a visit to the Hop Locker - is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Smokehouse W4

Posted 2015-04-12 11:27:46

The people behind Smokehouse and Pig and Butcher - two Guide entries in Islington - have now opened a brand new Smokehouse in Chiswick. A little off the beaten track, this place is nevertheless well worth a visit. It's quite 'foody' and you really should plan to eat here as the food is excellent.

Unfortunately the draft beer list is not as good as the Islington Smokehouse but its good quality bottled alone list warrants a Guide entry. It's worth considering combining a visit here with a stop at the Italian Job in nearby Devonshire Road, W4 as it's easy enough to walk from one to the other.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Draft House, Hammersmith

Posted 2015-04-12 11:17:48

The Draft House chain has now expanded west, with this new location in Hammersmith. Offering the usual good quality line up of keg, cask and bottled beers this one is airy and spacious, with friendly and welcoming staff. They offer all drafts in third pint pours and there were many impressive choices available when we visited.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Long Arm Brewing Co

Posted 2015-03-31 10:05:02

Ealing Park Tavern's new brewery has now done its first brew, so we have added them to our list of current brewpubs. The brewery is called Long Arm Brewing Co. The first beer is called Birdie Flipper and is a red ale at 4.5% ABV. Its currently on the bar.

The current number of London area breweries is now 80:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Antic pub group buys an interest in Clarence and Fredericks Brewing Co

Posted 2015-03-23 10:39:21

This is a rather interesting development: Antic London - operator of around 30 characterful pubs in London - has bought 'an interest' in Croydon brewery Clarence and Fredericks.

I don't have much more information but you can read an article here (scroll down to the second story):

//t.co/sFAceIP5x4

Antic were previously planning to open their own brewery - a plan about which I've heard nothing of late - so I wonder if this development represents a change of plan or just an intriguing new departure?

New extended opening hours at Bottle Shop, SE1

Posted 2015-03-22 05:51:38

In addition to its regular Saturday opening, Bottle Shop on Druid St, SE1 will now be open from 12 - 6 on Sundays from Sunday 29 March 2015.

This is another welcome expansion of opening hours in Bermondsey following Anspach and Hobday's similar move: they now open on Friday evenings, as well as Saturdays and Sundays.

I wonder how long it will be until other local venues follow suit?

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Plato Brewery

Posted 2015-03-22 05:41:45

Plato Brewery are a very tiny commercial brewery in Hackney, currently selling their beers at Netil Market, Westgate St, E8.

You can find more info on their beers on Ratebeer, here:

http://www.ratebeer.com/brewers/oplato/21442/

And they are on Facebook here:

https://www.facebook.com/degreesplatobrewingsupplies?_rdr

New brewery added to list: Sultan Brewery, SW19

Posted 2015-03-12 05:23:06

London's only Hop Back Brewery pub - the Sultan in South Wimbledon - now has its own on site brewery. Called The Sultan Brewery, their first trial brew was on the bar earlier this week. Thanks to @beerjustice Steve Williams for the photo.

London Brewery count now back up to 78:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from brewery list: London Fields Brewery

Posted 2015-03-08 12:13:10

According to a piece in the London Evening Standard on 6 March 2015, all London Fields Brewery beers are now being brewed outside London - in Lincolnshire and Sussex. All brewing in Hackney has apparently ceased and the brewing staff made redundant:

http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/london-fields-brewery-jobs-outside-london-beers-brewed-employees-made-redundant-10090419.html

This confirms information given to the Guide a few weeks ago which suggested that London Fields beers were being brewed at Bedlam Brewery in Sussex, though my attempts to verify that Bedlam is indeed the Sussex brewery being used by London Fields have so far been unsuccessful.

This deletion reduces the number of London breweries on our list to 77, though several new ones are very close to starting:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

New Guide entry: U Brew, Bermondsey SE16

Posted 2015-02-27 00:53:26

There's now another Bermondsey railway arch (double arch, to be precise) where you can find great beer - this time just round the other side of the railway from Brew by Numbers, and close to Bottle Shop on Druid Street.

U Brew is an open brewery - the first in London - where members can brew their own beer. The U Brew team will also be brewing in their own right, and their beers will be available at the brewery tap. The tap may also feature some of the best beers brewed by members, as well as guest beers from other breweries.

Opening times have yet to settle but keep an eye on our new Guide entry for regular updates.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Italian Job, Chiswick W4

Posted 2015-02-18 11:55:38

The first bar in the UK dedicated to showcasing Italian beer is now open in Chiswick, W4. The excellent Italian brewery Birrificio Del Ducato are behind this cosy new venue, but they offer a range of beers from many of Italy's best breweries, not just their own. Given the strength of Italian brewing right now, this is a great venue to have in London and I'd highly recommend a visit soon.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Shaftesbury Tavern, N19

Posted 2015-01-14 12:09:56

The people behind Acton's Dragonfly Brewery have recently taken over the Shaftesbury Tavern, N19 (between Archway and Crouch Hill stations). This place is excellent - a proper pub serving some great beer including the promising Dragonfly beers along with many guests.

The photo below gives an idea of the interior - just check out that back room! - of this highly recommended pub.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Understudy at the National Theatre

Posted 2015-01-14 11:48:25

Who knew there was a bar serving some excellent beers at the National Theatre? Well there is, and its called the Understudy. We really liked this place and if the beer line up on our first visit is anything to go by, we will return time and again.

A seriously good list of keg and bottled beers should have more than enough of interest for most. This one is highly recommended for a visit next time you're on the South Bank.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewpub added to list: The Bohemia, N12

Posted 2015-01-14 11:43:26

London Brewing Company's second brewpub, The Bohemia, N12 has now started brewing. The plan is for their first pub - Highgate's Bull - to focus on cask beer and for the Bohemia to focus on keg. Both ranges will be served at either pub and for now the two separate breweries share the same brewer.

This brings the current number of London breweries to 79:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Our photo shows the area reserved for the brewery prior to the installation of the kit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Temple Brew House, WC2

Posted 2015-01-14 11:43:04

Temple Brew House is the most central of London's many new breweries. This new brewpub, located on Essex Street (just up the street from the Edgar Wallace) opened late in 2014 and their first brew was in early December.

The brewery is called Essex Street Brewing Co and the plan is to have up to 6 of their beers on the handpumps in the bar, along with a good range of guest beers on the keg lines and in bottles.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewpub added to list: Four Thieves, Battersea

Posted 2015-01-03 07:04:35

The latest brewpub from Laine Brewing started brewing on 31st December 2014. Four Thieves in Battersea joins the other Laine's London venues, People's Park Tavern, Hackney (Victoria Park) and The Aeronaut, Acton.

The first Battersea brewed beer is a light pale at 3.5% ABV. Reports will be welcome once its ready.

New Guide entry: Hop Burns & Black, East Dulwich

Posted 2014-12-27 04:46:49

This is a very stylish new bottle shop & tasting room. While the focus is very much on off sales, the tiny seating area by the windows provides a good opportunity to buy a beer from the shelves or fridges and enjoy it on site.

Particularly strong on London brewed beers, the shop is located just 50 yards from the Flying Pig and a short bus ride or walk from the Ivy House and comes very highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Still and Star Brew Pub, Aldgate, E1

Posted 2014-12-16 09:49:01

Brewing appears to have started at another London pub, the Still and Star, Aldgate E1. We have yet to try their beers so reports are welcome. Thanks to John Gray and @tandleman for up to date info on this one:

http://www.tandlemanbeerblog.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/still-and-star-aldgate.html

New brewery added to list: Essex St Brewing Co, WC2

Posted 2014-12-04 01:51:13

Brewing has now started at Essex St Brewing Co, the name of the brewery at Temple Brew House, Essex St, WC2.

Probably the most central of London's many breweries, this brand new brewpub serves a decent range of other beers as well as their own. Reports welcome.

Current London brewery total now = 76 (for today, at any rate...):

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Brewery page update: Clouded Minds return to London

Posted 2014-11-27 11:13:17

Clouded Minds started off as a north London brewery, but left for Derbyshire a few months ago. They are now back, brewing at Gipsy Hill Brewing Co in south London on a temporary basis until their new premises - this time in Oxfordshire - are ready. For now, they meet our definition of a London brewery so we have added them back onto our list.

The London brewery total now stands at 75 and you can find the full list here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New Guide entry: Magpie and Crown, Brentford

Posted 2014-11-27 11:08:31

This Guide entry is long overdue (I just hadn't managed to get to Brentford for ages) as the Magpie and Crown has been a good pub for quite some time. This comfortable, traditional freehouse offers an excellent range of cask and keg beers alongside a growing list of around 50 bottles, with many very good choices - and decent pub food too.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Express Tavern, Kew Bridge

Posted 2014-11-27 09:58:34

This is a very welcome new addition to the Guide: the latest pub from the people behind the wonderful Sussex Arms in Strawberry Hill and the equally good Antelope in Surbiton. While the offer is similar to both, the pub has a lovely, very homely and comfortable feel and comes very highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Wild Card Brewery Tap, E17

Posted 2014-11-19 08:02:49

Wild Card Brewery Tap in Walthamstow, E17 is our latest new Guide entry. Located about 10 minutes' walk from Walthamstow Central station, this compact brewery manages to squeeze a characterful bar area into a small amount of space, creating a good space for a weekend only brewery tap.

Visit for some of Wild Card's own cask beers plus a range of guest bottles.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Canopy Beer Co, Herne Hill

Posted 2014-11-18 01:26:25

Canopy Beer Co - a new 4BBL microbrewery in Herne Hill - has been added to our list, bringing the current London total to 74:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

There's a great chance to try their beers at their first open day/launch party at the brewery on Saturday 29th November, 3pm till 'late'.

Here's a link to their website: http://www.canopybeer.com/

New Guide entry: The Wanstead Tap, E7

Posted 2014-11-17 12:26:19

This is yet another new Guide entry in a railway arch, but this time it's a bottle shop/cafe rather than a brewery.

Located about 10 minutes' walk from either Forest Gate or Wanstead Park stations, this little gem is well worth seeking out. Take your pick from around 100 bottles and you can choose to either drink in or take them home. Prices are highly competitive and the selection is excellent.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Orbit Beers Tap Room

Posted 2014-11-17 12:19:24

New south London brewery Orbit Beers have an excellent tap room which is now open every Saturday, 11am to 5pm. Its another brewery in a railway arch, but this one is in Kennington - a little under 10 minutes' walk from Kennington station on the Northern Line.

Their initial (largely) 'German style' beers are very good indeed and a visit to the tap room comes highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

London brewery updates: Abbey Ford, SW16, Solvay Society, Hops and Glory

Posted 2014-11-11 11:55:22

I've deleted two breweries from our list: Abbey Ford in Chertsey and SW16 (Furzedown). Having been tipped off that neither are currently brewing, I attempted to contact both, to no avail.

If I receive any information to the contrary I will happily add them back onto our list, but for now I assume they've both stopped.

The current number of London breweries is therefore 73, and the full list can be found here:

http://beerguideldn.com/breweries

Other interesting brewery news concerns Solvay Society and Hops and Glory. Solvay Society were previously brewing at the Warrant Officer pub, E17, but have now moved in below Hops and Glory, N1. The plan is for both breweries to continue in their own right, but to share one brew kit.

We understand that it will be a few weeks before the relocated Solvay Society brewing equipment is ready, so don't expect any beers until early in 2015.

New Guide entry: Southwark Brewing Co Tap Room

Posted 2014-10-22 11:43:29

Bermondsey's 7th brewery is now up and running. Southwark Brewing Co are on Druid Street near Anspach & Hobday/Bullfinch and their tap room is open every Saturday from 11am to 5pm.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery: Left Bank Brewery, E17

Posted 2014-10-16 12:39:30

The London brewery total has reached 75 with the addition of Left Bank Brewery, who are now brewing commercially in Walthamstow, E17.

They are brewing just 50 - 70 litre batches once a week with most of the beer being bottled. You can buy the beer at the brewery or at the Hornbeam Cafe, 458 Hoe Street, Walthamstow. They also sell at the Blackhorse Market on the first Saturday of each month. There will be a pop-up night at the Blackhorse Workshop on Friday 24th October when the beer will be for sale.

If anyone gets to try their beers reports would be welcome.

The current list of London breweries can be found here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

And Left Bank's website can be found here: http://www.leftbankbrewery.co.uk

New Guide entry: Hop and Berry, N1

Posted 2014-10-16 12:34:08

The old Barnsbury pub on Liverpool Road, N1 - approximately half way between Angel and Highbury and Islington - has now reopened as the Hop and Berry.

Its focus is London beers - in fact their USP is that they only serve beers from London breweries. The beer board gives information on the miles each beer has travelled to get to the pub, which is a novel feature.

All in all this pub comes very highly recommended, especially for anyone interested in trying beers from some of London's top breweries.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Gipsy Hill Brewery Tap

Posted 2014-10-16 12:30:23

Gipsy Hill Brewing Co are now opening their brewery tap on the 1st and 4th Saturdays of each month. Just across the yard from London Beer Factory, and 5 minutes from the excellent Beer Rebellion, this makes Gipsy Hill a rather good beer destination when all three venues are open.

Their beers (all below 4.5% ABV) show a lot of promise.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: London Beer Factory, Gipsy Hill

Posted 2014-09-13 17:46:29

Gipsy Hill now has two breweries, and one of them already opens its brewery tap on a weekly basis. London Beer Factory is open on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons and is worth a visit - especially if neighbours Gipsy Hill Brewery are also having one of their occasional open days (they plan to open weekly in due course).

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: London Beer Dispensary, Crofton Park

Posted 2014-09-13 17:46:15

Late Knights Brewery have now opened 3 excellent bars in London, plus one in Brighton. This highly atmospheric bar in Crofton Park may be the pick of the bunch, and comes highly recommended. As well as some great beer and a wonderful ambience, there's great food and one of the best pub ceilings in London....

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Beer Rebellion, Peckham

Posted 2014-09-13 17:46:03

The latest pub from Late Knights Brewery is now open in Peckham - right by Queens Road Peckham station. Its a simple one roomed bar but has loads of atmosphere and an excellent beer selection. Late Knights are now doing some seriously impressive bars and this one is right up there with the others. Definitely check it out!

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Clerkenwell's Gunmakers sold

Posted 2014-08-27 10:32:36

The big news today is that Jeff, owner and landlord of the Gunmakers, EC1, has sold the pub after 5 hugely successful years. For now we understand that he plans to focus on his other, newer pub the Finborough Arms in SW10 (Earls Court/West Brompton).

While the Gunmakers will continue as a pub (or bar), we understand that the new owners do not have a specific beery interest, so it is likely that the pub will no longer retain its excellent range of well kept ales.

The Guide wishes Jeff every success for the future. His farewell drinks are planned for Saturday 6 September at the pub and all are welcome.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Big Smoke Brew Co, Surbiton

Posted 2014-08-21 00:21:58

Big Smoke Brew Co, located behind the excellent Antelope pub in Surbiton, have now started brewing. Their first beer - a hoppy pale - should be ready soon.

The total number of breweries in the London area is now 71. Our full list is here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Updated Guide entry: The Trafalgar, South Wimbledon

Posted 2014-08-17 05:38:55

The people who run the Hope in Carshalton have now taken on the Trafalgar in South Wimbledon. They've given it a much needed spruce up and greatly improved the beer range. Definitely well worth checking out if you haven't been in a while....

Click on the red info button next to the header in this news article to see our updated Guide entry.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Queen's Arms, SW7

Posted 2014-08-17 04:49:46

Our first Guide entry in Kensington, this pub is a great choice if you're attending the Royal Albert Hall. Its the nearest pub to the Hall and by far the best bet for good beer in this area.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: BrewDog Clapham Junction

Posted 2014-08-17 04:25:58

We've updated the Guide with a new entry, the excellent new BrewDog Clapham Junction. With 24 taps of the usual high quality beer and a clever evolution of the BrewDog brand, this new bar is highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New longer opening hours at The Bohemia, N12

Posted 2014-08-11 12:29:16

The new North Finchley venue from London Brewing Co - The Bohemia - is now open from 12 noon every day. Excellent news!

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Longroom rebrands as Bar Smith

Posted 2014-08-11 12:21:10

Farringdon's rather excellent Longroom has had a change of ownership and a complete rebrand. Its now called Bar Smith, and rather worryingly the Twitter feed and website seems to focus on spirits and cocktails rather than beer. However, early reports suggest that the previously good beer range will remain.

All reports will be welcome. A new photo will follow when I get back to see the place in its new guise. For now, I've updated the Guide entry, which can be found by following the link via the red 'info' button by the header for this news article.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from London brewery list: Adventure Brewery

Posted 2014-08-11 11:59:49

Adventure Brewery have 'temporarily suspended' brewing and so have been deleted from our list of London breweries. I understand that they are looking for investment in order to buy a new, bigger brew kit, and that their current kit is up for sale.

The updated list of London breweries can be found here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

With thanks to Nick Payne of News & Ale, John Cryne of London Brewers' Alliance, and also London Drinker for assistance with the detail around this news.

Our new 'Top Picks': London's Top 20 places to drink good beer

Posted 2014-08-06 08:04:20

London's beer scene continues to grow and change at a rapid pace. Given the number of great new places which have opened since the start of 2014 we thought it time to review our list of 'Top Picks'. Our fully revised list features our choice of London's current Top 20 places to drink good beer. The full list can be found here:

http://www.beerguidelondon.com/tp.j

New London brewery: Bloomsbury Brewery

Posted 2014-08-06 07:47:17

Bloomsbury Brewery is situated in the cellar of The Perseverance pub, Lamb's Conduit Street. Their first beers have been seen on sale in the pub and so we have now added them to our list of London breweries. Reports on the beers would be welcome.

Addition to brewery list: Abbey Ford Brewery, Chertsey

Posted 2014-08-06 00:19:18

This is stretching our definition to the limit, but Abbey Ford Brewery are within the M25 - only just, being about a mile inside, in Chertsey, Surrey - and so I have added them to our brewery list. Unfortunately they are very quiet on Twitter so I have little information, but I understand that their beers have been seen at Egham Beer Festival.

Any additional information will be welcome.

New Guide entry: Pig and Butcher, N1

Posted 2014-08-04 00:19:36

Sister pub to the excellent Smokehouse near Highbury and Islington tube, this (very gastro-) pub is much closer to Angel station. In common with Smokehouse the food is of very high quality. The beery interest is in the bottled list of around 60, which includes some very good choices.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New extended opening hours at Brick Brewery

Posted 2014-07-31 10:38:12

Brick Brewery is now open on Friday evenings (5pm - 9pm) as well as Saturday 12 - 9pm.

Updated Guide entry here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/pubs.152

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletion from London brewery list: East Wickham Brewery

Posted 2014-07-29 04:48:34

The long planned East Wickham brewery has apparently only just been installed, so pending their first brew I have removed them from our brewery list.

As soon as they are operational I will be adding them to the list once again.

If anyone gets a chance to view the brewery or has any update on the brewing please let us know. All information is very welcome.

Deletion from London brewery list: Shamblemoose

Posted 2014-07-29 04:42:40

Shamblemoose have been deleted from our London brewery list.

Brewing has been put 'on hold' and they are no longer brewing at Late Knights. I understand that they will make an announcement about their future plans in due course, and that this is likely to involve their own brewery in Surrey, but I have no confirmation of this as yet.

We await further news with interest.

London Craft Beer Festival, 14 - 17 August 2014

Posted 2014-07-28 00:13:39

The 2nd edition of London Craft Beer Festival will be held at Oval Space, Bethnal Green from August 14th to 17th.

This year's line up of breweries is excellent: highlights include Weird Beard, Beavertown, Kernel, Sierra Nevada, Buxton, Brew by Numbers, Partizan, Magic Rock, Burning Sky, Siren, Omnipollo, Evil Twin - and many more.

Food last year was of excellent quality and this year Ginger Pig, Rita's and Plump Cafe will be on hand to make sure you don't go hungry.

This year's entrance ticket includes unlimited tasters of any or all of the beers available. You can get your tickets here: http://bit.ly/LCBF2014

This is sure to be another great festival and comes highly recommended.

Changes in opening hours: The Gunmakers, Stormbird and Brew Wharf

Posted 2014-07-27 05:54:19

There have recently been various changes in opening hours at three Guide entries, as follows:

The Gunmakers, EC1: they have reverted to their original opening hours, i.e. open all day Mon - Fri only, and closed all day Saturday and Sunday. The reason for stopping the weekend opening is due to the weekened restaurant pop up pulling out.

Stormbird, SE5: now opens from 12 noon Saturdays and Sundays. Weekday opening time is still 4pm.

Brew Wharf, SE1: are now opening Sundays, though they close at 8pm. Also now that brewing has ceased, the Brew Wharf beers have been replaced by cask beers from Truman's. The kegs remain almost exclusively Meantime.

Deletion from London brewery list: Clouded Minds

Posted 2014-07-26 02:56:36

Previously based in Southgate, North London, Clouded Minds have now completed their long anticipated move out of London. They are now brewing in Derbyshire so we have deleted them from our brewery list. We wish them all the very best for the future.

http://www.cloudedminds.co.uk/

White Hart Brew Pub renamed One Mile End Brew Co

Posted 2014-07-26 02:42:05

Whitechapel's White Hart Brew Pub has renamed its brewery. It is now called One Mile End Brew Co. I have had very good reports of the beers being produced under the new Head Brewer, who I understand used to work at Redemption. I look forward to revisiting soon.

New Guide entry: The Bohemia, N12

Posted 2014-07-25 00:12:00

The new sister pub to Highgate's Bull has now opened in North Finchley, N12. It's soon to become London Brewing Co's second brewpub, with brewing due to commence in the next couple of months. The pub is huge, airy and comfortable, offering an impressive range of beers and high quality food. Check out our Guide entry for full details.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: Upstairs Brewing

Posted 2014-07-23 09:10:24

This new London brewery is based in E17 but does its full scale brews at Clarence and Fredericks in Croydon. You can try their early beers at the Wandsworth Common Beer Festival which starts tomorrow, Weds 24th July. Reports welcome.

This brings the number of London breweries back up to 72. Full list here:

http://www.beerguidelondon.com/breweries

New Guide entry: Beavertown Brewery Tap

Posted 2014-07-23 00:15:27

Beavertown Brewery's excellent new brewery tap is now open (on Saturdays only, 12 - 6pm). Its a 5 minute walk from Tottenham Hale station and is a great place to visit. Full details in our new Guide entry - a new 'Top Pick'.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Balham Brewery relocates and are renamed Cult Brewing

Posted 2014-07-17 12:50:02

Balham Brewery are no longer in Balham: they have relocated to Chipstead and changed their name to Cult Brewing. As this is within the M25 it still qualifies as London under our criteria, however at the moment they are not yet brewing commercially.

As and when they start brewing commercially we will be delighted to add Cult Brewing to our list of London breweries.

For now the total stands at 71.

The Harp sold to Fullers

Posted 2014-07-16 13:26:40

Covent Garden's Harp has been sold to Fullers due to the owner's retirement. We do not yet know what this might mean for the beer range, but we report more news when we have it.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery added to list: Gipsy Hill Brewing Co

Posted 2014-07-05 03:09:17

Welcome to Gipsy Hill Brewing Co, who have now started brewing and whose beers are out now out in the wild. They become London's 72nd brewery and have been added to our list:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New London brewery added to list: Orbit Beers, SE17

Posted 2014-06-30 12:24:31

Total number of London breweries is now up to 71 with the addition of new SE17 brewery Orbit Beers. Due to start brewing tomorrow, 1st July, this is one to watch:

http://orbitbeers.com/

Good luck to Mario and the team for their first brew!

Change of opening hours: Harrild and Sons

Posted 2014-06-22 14:22:28

Harrild and Sons opening hours have changed - they now do not open until 5pm on Saturdays. Full opening hours listed on their Guide entry.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Two deletions from Guide: Ales & Tails and Duchess of Cambridge

Posted 2014-06-15 13:55:16

We are sorry to hear of the impending closure of two Guide entries: Ales & Tails in Twickenham and the Duchess of Cambridge, Stamford Brook. Both have been deleted from the Guide.

New brewpub Guide entry: Dragonfly Brewery at the George & Dragon, Acton

Posted 2014-06-13 01:44:32

A new brewpub has opened in the historic old George & Dragon pub on Acton High Street, W3. We were impressed with the first beers from its own new Dragonfly Brewery, which is located at the back of the pub. Check out our new Guide entry, here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/pubs.169

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Updated opening hours at Mother Kelly's, Bethnal Green

Posted 2014-06-13 01:38:41

Our Guide entry for the oustanding Mother Kelly's has been updated with their new 4pm weekday opening time on weekdays:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/pubs.162

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: London Beer Factory

Posted 2014-06-03 11:59:43

London brewery count rises to 70 with the addition of London Beer Factory, who have just started brewing. Once I have a URL I will update their entry on our list, here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New Guide entry: The Three Johns, Angel N1

Posted 2014-05-26 02:17:47

The latest venue from the impressive Barworks group (Exmouth Arms, Harrild & Sons, Well & Bucket, etc) has now opened on White Lion Street, Angel. The Three Johns is just one block from Craft Beer Co, making this one of the beeriest streets in London. Its worth a visit just to marvel at its stunning ceiling; the pizzas are very good; and of course there are many excellent beers.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Craft Beer Co, WC1

Posted 2014-05-18 10:39:33

Craft Beer Co's 5th London location opened on 9th May with a stunning 45 taps (15 cask, 30 keg). Slightly smaller than Craft Leather Lane, its nevertheless very comfortable with a lovely downstairs room. A great, central location - as well as a superb beer offer - guarantees that this one will be super busy and no doubt a huge success.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Duke's Head, Highgate

Posted 2014-05-18 10:19:56

This new Guide entry is rather good: a simple but smart one roomed pub offering 10 cask and 10 keg beers plus a small but well chosen selection of bottles. As its a short walk from local brewpub The Bull, Highgate now has two good pubs, both of which are highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: London Beer Lab, SW9

Posted 2014-05-18 09:22:28

A new brewery has been added to our list: London Beer Lab, in Brixton, SW9. As well as a very small scale commercial brewing operation they also host tastings and brewing workshops, as well as selling homebrew supplies.

Their beers can be found on sale at a few select locations in and around Brixton such as Craft Beer Co, Market Row Wines and DVine Cellars.

The London brewery total is now up to 69, and you can find the full list here:

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New brewery coming soon: Bexley Brewery

Posted 2014-05-15 04:08:44

A new brewery in Bexley is coming soon - the first brewery in the borough for 60 years. Bexley Brewery beers will be available at Bexley BF this weekend - presumably test brews, as their website states they are hoping to start by September:

http://www.bexleybrewery.co.uk/

We will add the to our brewery list when we get more info about their current status.

New Guide entry: Look Mum No Hands, Mare St, E8

Posted 2014-05-13 01:20:54

For something a little different, check out new Guide entry Look Mum No Hands, on Mare Street just a couple of minutes' walk from London Fields Tap Room. A small but high quality draft (keg) selection is complemented by an equally high quality bottled range - mostly from London breweries.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: People's Park Tavern, Victoria Park, E9

Posted 2014-05-13 01:10:50

New brewpub the People's Park Tavern is right by a gate into the wonderful Victoria Park. We were impressed by both food and their own beers - of which 6 were available on handpump on our visit. Well worth checking out.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Lofty Turtle, East Sheen

Posted 2014-05-13 01:06:06

Fancy some American beer in East Sheen? Check out new Guide entry the Lofty Turtle. This one's been around for a while but for some unknown reason it took a while to finally get to visit. If you like Stone beers this should be a good choice.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Grape and Grain, Crystal Palace bought by Wetherspoons

Posted 2014-05-13 00:46:49

We were saddened to hear that the rather good Grape & Grain in Crystal Palace has been sold to JD Wetherspoons. While of course this is a better outcome than G & G closing entirely and maybe becoming a supermarket, its still not great news given that there are already plenty of 'Spoons pubs including one quite nearby (the Postal Order, Westow Street).

The good news is that the change won't happen in the immediate future but its still sad to lose a good, local independent pub which offers an excellent choice of beer.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide Entry: Mother Kelly's, Bethnal Green

Posted 2014-05-12 00:21:16

One of several new bottle shops recently opened in London, this one is a real gem: a bottle shop and bar in one. Its in a spacious, bright and airy railway arch close to Bethnal Green tube, and just a couple of minutes from Redchurch Brewery. With 23 drafts and a selection of around 75 bottles this one is highly recommended and immediately a Guide 'Top Pick'.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Bottle Shop, SE1

Posted 2014-04-27 09:30:53

The latest addition to the Bermondsey Beer Mile is the excellent Bottle Shop, open each Saturday and serving a couple of draft beers plus your choice from their bottled selection of around 200. They offer some outstanding choices at excellent prices. Five doors down from Anspach & Hobday/Bullfinch Brewery tap on Druid St, this is an essential stop on the Mile.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: Draft House Seething

Posted 2014-04-27 09:24:08

This new entry is an excellent Draft House with one of their best beer ranges. Right on the edge of the City, and very handy for Tower Hill station, which is only a couple of minutes away. Definitely well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New Guide entry: The Miller, SE1

Posted 2014-04-27 09:18:44

Found in an unlikely location right behing Guy's Hospital, this new entry is in the Guide for its rather good range of bottled beers from some of the best breweries in London. Check it out for lots of Kernel, Weird Beard, Partizan and more. Shame the drafts are not of the same standard but I live in hope.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New opening hours: Kernel & Brew by Numbers

Posted 2014-04-27 09:07:40

Both Kernel and Brew by Numbers have changed their opening hours. Somewhat inconveniently, Kernel will now close at 2pm (opening is 9am) making an early start imperative for those 'doing the mile'.

Brew by Numbers' new hours are 10am to 5pm.

Both continue to be Saturdays only. Respective Guide entries have been updated:
http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/pubs.56

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Brewery deletion: Hoppy Collie

Posted 2014-04-23 10:23:15

Last year Hoppy Collie sold their brewkit and announced plans to go gypsy. Unfortunately those plans have 'gone into hibernation' and Hoppy Collie are not currently brewing. I have therefore deleted them from our brewery list.

I wish them well for the future and hope that we will one day be adding them back onto our list of current London breweries.

The current list can be found here: http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries - total now being 68.

New weekend opening at The Gunmakers, Clerkenwell

Posted 2014-04-06 06:54:37

The excellent Gunmakers Arms in Clerkenwell is now open weekends - from 6pm - 11pm Saturdays, and from 12 noon to 6pm Sundays. Food available both days.

http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/pubs.php?IDKEY=4

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery added to list: Hammerton Brewery, Islington

Posted 2014-04-05 01:10:27

Brewing starts next week at Hammerton Brewery in Islington, so we've added them to our list. No website for now so their link points to their Twitter feed.

Total now = 69. http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Brewery updates: Alpha State; Solvay Society/Warrant Officer

Posted 2014-03-27 08:11:46

Alpha State has been deleted from our brewery list as I understand they are now based in Kent.

We now also have a brewery name for the new brewpub under the Warrant Officer pub, E17: Solvay Society.

Brewery total now = 68. Full list here: http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New brewery added: Warrant Officer, E17

Posted 2014-03-27 01:57:48

News reaches us of another new London brewpub - at the Warrant Officer pub in E17. Former home of the Wild Card brewery, this new brewery has just started to brew its first beer. If you visit and taste the beers we would love to hear your views.

London brewery total now up to 69: http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Three breweries added to the Guide's list: total now 68

Posted 2014-03-23 08:37:10

I've decided to add Signature Brew to our brewery list. Based in London, they often seem to brew outside London (i.e. at Titanic) but I understand that they do also brew in London, so I've decided to add them.

I've also added two new breweries about which I don't have a huge amount of information.

Firstly SWIG (Furzedown): 'mini micro brewers' who brew beer for sale at local markets and events in the Tooting area.

Secondly, Park Brewery, who have brewed an APA for the Jam Tree pubs in Chelsea and Clapham. I am not clear about any other output and whether they brew exclusively for the Jam Tree or also sell their beer elsewhere. Their website is broken so information is limited, and I await a reply to my query via Twitter.

Any further info on any of these would be most welcome and I will udpate these new pages when I have more information.

Current list here: http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

Deletion from London brewery list: Ellenberg's, West London

Posted 2014-03-21 02:15:59

We are sorry to report the winding down of brewing operations at Ellenberg's brewery, West London. It has therefore been deleted from our brewery list. We would like to wish Mike Ellenberg all the very best for the future.

London brewery total now at 65, but with one possible new addition to come very soon: http://beerguidelondon.co.uk/breweries

New pub entry: Lazy Fox, Fulham

Posted 2014-03-18 12:43:33

We've added Fulham's Lazy Fox to the Guide. A good range of quality keg and bottled beers and a few cask ales too. Self serve beer anyone? Come and check out the Beer Wall (see photo below).

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New pub entry: Electricity Showrooms, Hoxton

Posted 2014-03-17 13:11:29

The increasingly excellent Barworks group has opened another intriguing new venue right by Hoxton Square: Electricity Showrooms. While the beer list here is not quite as extensive as sister pubs Exmouth Arms and Harrild and Sons, there are still some great choices - for example, Burning Sky beers when we visited. This one is well worth a visit.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New pub entry: Finborough Arms, West Brompton

Posted 2014-03-17 12:50:10

The new sister pub to Clerkenwell's Gunmakers Arms is now open in West Brompton. A revived pub located under a theatre, this pub features a range of cask and quality keg beers including Lagunitas IPA and Tipopils from Italy. Highly recommended.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Deletions from Guide: The Lamb, Chiswick and The Botanist, Kew

Posted 2014-03-16 09:47:42

Both The Lamb, Chiswick and The Botanist, Kew were recently sold to Mitchells and Butlers. We knew already that brewing had stopped, but I got round to calling in to check on the beer range at both places this week.

Unfortunately the previously impressive beer range has been greatly reduced at both pubs, so they have both been deleted from the Guide. Bottled ranges have been decimated and there were few keg beers of any interest. The cask line up in both was fairly generic with a few decent beers but nothing particularly exceptional. It was also very sad to see both brew kits still in situ looking very sad and unused.

I was also not impressed that The Lamb is still calling itself 'The Lamb Brewery' (see photo) and there are still various references to The Botanist brewing its own beer. I feel that M & B should really correct this and give a true and accurate picture of the lack of brewing at either site.

All very sad as these were two good options in an area with few good pubs.

New London brewery: The Dragonfly, Acton

Posted 2014-03-16 09:32:42

New Acton brewpub the Dragonfly brews for the first time this coming week, so I've added them as our 66th London brewery:
http://www.beerguidelondon.com/breweries.php

New pub entry: Harrild and Sons

Posted 2014-03-09 13:43:06

Another excellent new bar in the Barworks group (Exmouth Arms, Well & Bucket and more) has just opened on Farringdon Street, between Farringdon and Blackfriars Stations. As well as a superb interior this one is notable for having one of the best bottled beer lists in London.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London Brewery: Clouded Minds

Posted 2014-02-16 10:35:59

New brewery Clouded Minds now added to our list - bringing the total to 65 at present:
http://www.beerguidelondon.com/breweries

The Guide's new 'links' section

Posted 2014-02-16 10:25:06

Check out our new 'links' section with links to useful resources, beer blogs, etc:
http://www.beerguidelondon.com/links

New London brewery: Hops and Glory, N1

Posted 2014-02-10 10:52:21

Another London pub has now started brewing....the Hops and Glory, Essex Road, N1. If the beer is half as good as the pub we are in for a treat. Reports welcome.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: People's Park Tavern/Laine Brewing - Victoria Park, E9

Posted 2014-02-09 09:45:28

Brewing has now started at the People's Park Tavern, Victoria Park, London E9. This is one of two London outposts of Brighton's Laine Brewing Co - the other being the Aeronaut, Acton. The new brewery has been added to our list, here:

New pub entry: The Antelope, Surbiton

Posted 2014-02-08 08:16:41

The brand new sister pub to Twickenham's Sussex Arms opened in Surbiton on 6 February. The Guide visited The Antelope on 7th and was extremely impressed, immediately making the pub a new Guide 'Top Pick'. Read the full details in our new Guide entry.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New version of the Guide for smart phones

Posted 2014-02-05 14:18:37

We've now a version of the Guide which works better on phones. Check it out: m.beerguidelondon.com - also linked at bottom of each page.

Brew Wharf stops brewing

Posted 2014-02-03 12:54:49

Unfortunately Brew Wharf appear to have stopped brewing completely. The excellent brewer Angelo is going to Brodie's and it seems that a decision has been taken to cease brewing completely. It remains to be seen what will happen to the beer range - presumably yet more Meantime? - so for now we've updated the Guide entry with a 'watch this space' while we find out more information.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New London brewery: White Hart Brew Pub, E1

Posted 2014-02-03 11:44:36

Thanks to Allan Tyrer (@atyrer) for information about the new White Hart Brew Pub in Mile End. We've added it to our brewery list and are looking forward to visiting.

New brewery tap entry: Brick Brewery, Peckham Rye

Posted 2014-02-02 12:09:41

Brick Brewery is now getting ready for their regular Saturday openings from Sat 8 Feb, so what better time to add them to the Guide.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery tap entry: Twickenham Fine Ales

Posted 2014-02-02 07:14:17

Check out our new Guide entry for the brewery tap at Twickenham Fine Ales. Located just a minute's walk from the wonderful Sussex Arms, though watch the very limited opening hours.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New brewery tap entry: Anspach & Hobday/Bullfinch Brewery Tap

Posted 2014-02-02 06:39:54

The latest Bermondsey brewery tap is now open Saturdays only, making a great first or last stop on Bermondsey's brewery tap crawl.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Coming soon: Anspach & Hobday/Bullfinch Brewery tasting room

Posted 2014-01-26 09:19:10

Bermondsey's 5th and 6th breweries are just a few weeks away from opening their new tap room on Druid Street (very near the old Kernel location) - probably on Saturdays, with opening times TBC. Based on the Guide's sneak preview visit yesterday, these two breweries are going to be serving up some excellent beers. Definitely two to watch...and one very promising new joint tasting room to visit along with the other 4 stops on the Bermondsey brewery tap crawl. Full Guide entry to follow once its officially open. Thanks to both Anspach and Hobday and Bullfinch for their superb hospitality yesterday.

New brewery tap entry: Fourpure Brewing Co

Posted 2014-01-26 08:32:37

Fourpure's new tap room is now open Saturdays 11am to 5pm and is yet another excellent addition to Bermondsey's stunning brewery mile.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Update: Pakenham Arms

Posted 2014-01-25 05:06:54

Apparently Pakenham Arms has now reopened but a recent report suggests a limited beer range. Need to revisit; reports welcome.

New pub entry: Williams Ale & Cider House, Liverpool Street

Posted 2014-01-20 12:40:59

We've added an entry for this new place near Liverpool Street. If you visit, we'd welcome your views.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New pub entry: Kings Arms, Bethnal Green

Posted 2014-01-20 12:37:27

Not to be confused with the Kings Arms at Waterloo, this is the new sister pub to the Earl of Essex, and its equally good.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

New pub entry: Hack and Hop

Posted 2014-01-20 12:15:43

First new pub entered in the Guide since our launch - the excellent Hack and Hop, just off Fleet Street. Sister pub to Dean Swift and Old Red Cow....we think you'll like this place.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Fourth London Craft Beer Co pub opens

Posted 2013-12-22 20:57:47

This one is just off Clapham High Street. Smaller than the pubs in Leather Lane and Islington, it is nevertheless cosy and comfortable.

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Third London Brewdog bar opens

Posted 2013-12-06 20:53:30

This one is in Shepherd's Bush and is the best yet. Larger than the bars in Camden and Shoreditch, and offering 40 taps!

Check out our Guide entry via the red info button by the header of this news update.

Lamb Brewery (Chiswick) and The Botanist (Kew) no longer brewing

Posted 2013-11-03 07:23:26

The Lamb Brewery and The Botanist were recently sold to mega chain Mitchells & Butlers and have ceased brewing. How will this affect the beer list? Watch this space.

Pub closure: Pakenham Arms

Posted 2013-11-03 06:58:09

As of October 12. 2013. Hopefully a new pub will arise but it probably will become a block of flats.