London’s Finest Craft Breweries
London’s craft beer scene has exploded in the last decade, with microbreweries popping up across the city from railway arches to industrial estates. For beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike, these local breweries offer a chance to sample unique, small-batch brews in authentic surroundings. Here’s a guide to some of London’s best craft breweries and how to reach them via the Underground.
East London Craft Breweries
The Five Points Brewing Company
Nearest Tube: Hackney Central (Overground) Address: 3 Institute Place, London E8 1JE
Taking its name from the nearby five-way junction, Five Points produces a range of unfiltered, unpasteurized beers with a focus on quality and flavor. Their railway arch taproom in Hackney serves fresh beer directly from the source, including their popular Five Points Pale and Hackney Pils.
Howling Hops
Nearest Tube: Hackney Wick (Overground) Address: Unit 9A Queen’s Yard, White Post Lane, E9 5EN
Howling Hops boasts the UK’s first dedicated tank bar, where beers are served directly from the vessels they’re made in. Located in a former warehouse in Hackney Wick, it’s a spacious venue with long communal tables perfect for groups. Their rotating selection always includes something interesting for adventurous beer drinkers.
Beavertown Brewery
Nearest Tube: Tottenham Hale (Victoria Line) Address: Unit 17, Lockwood Industrial Park, Mill Mead Road, N17 9QP
Founded in 2011, Beavertown has become one of London’s most recognizable craft beer brands. Their Tottenham taproom, affectionately named “Corner Pin,” offers a range of their iconic beers from Neck Oil Session IPA to Gamma Ray American Pale Ale. The colorful, sci-fi inspired artwork on their cans is almost as famous as the beer itself.
North London Craft Breweries
Camden Town Brewery
Nearest Tube: Kentish Town West (Overground) Address: 55-59 Wilkin Street Mews, NW5 3NN
Though now owned by AB InBev, Camden Town Brewery remains a London craft beer pioneer. Their Kentish Town brewery bar offers tours and tastings of their famous Hells Lager and other creations in a stylish industrial setting.
Hammerton Brewery
Nearest Tube: Caledonian Road (Piccadilly Line) Address: 149 Roman Way, N7 8XH
Reviving a historic London brewery name, Hammerton produces bold, flavorful beers including the renowned Islington Steam Lager and Pentonville Oyster Stout (which really does contain oysters!). Their taproom is open weekends with street food vendors and a relaxed atmosphere.
South London Craft Breweries
Brick Brewery
Nearest Tube: Peckham Rye (Overground) Address: Arch 209, Blenheim Grove, SE15 4QL
Nestled under the railway arches near Peckham Rye station, Brick Brewery‘s taproom offers up to 20 different beers on tap. Their core range includes the refreshing Peckham Pale and Peckham IPA, but don’t miss their seasonal specials and sour beers.
Gipsy Hill Brewing Co
Nearest Tube: Gipsy Hill (Southern Rail) Address: Unit 11, Hamilton Road Industrial Estate, SE27 9SF
Though technically reached by rail rather than tube, Gipsy Hill is worth the journey. Their taproom features 20+ taps pouring their own beers alongside guest brews from around the world. Their core range focuses on balanced, sessionable beers that don’t compromise on flavor.
West London
Fuller’s Brewery (Fuller, Smith & Turner)
Nearest Tube: Turnham Green (District Line) Address: Chiswick Lane South, W4 2QB
For a taste of London brewing history, visit Fuller’s Griffin Brewery in Chiswick. Operating since 1845, they offer excellent tours culminating in a tasting of classics like London Pride and ESB. While not exactly “craft” by modern definitions, Fuller’s represents London’s brewing heritage.
Weird Beard Brew Co
Nearest Tube: Hanwell (Elizabeth Line) Address: Unit 5, Boston Business Park, Trumpers Way, Hanwell, W7 2QA
Living up to their name, Weird Beard produces adventurous, hop-forward beers with quirky names and bold flavors. Their taproom opens on Saturdays, offering a chance to try fresh brews directly from the source.
Central London Craft Breweries
The Kernel Brewery
Nearest Tube: Bermondsey (Jubilee Line) Address: Arch 7, Dockley Road Industrial Estate, SE16 3SF
A pioneer of London’s craft beer renaissance, The Kernel opened in 2009 and helped establish Bermondsey’s “Beer Mile.” They focus on historically-inspired IPAs, pale ales, and London porters. Their no-frills taproom is open Saturdays only and offers some of the freshest beer in London.
Meantime Brewing Company
Nearest Tube: North Greenwich (Jubilee Line) Address: Lawrence Trading Estate, Blackwall Lane, SE10 0AR
Located near the O2 Arena, Meantime’s brewery includes a tasting rooms and shop. While now owned by Asahi, they were early players in London’s craft scene and still produce quality beers including London Pale Ale and Yakima Red.
Tips for Your Brewery Tour
- Check opening hours: Many brewery taprooms only open on weekends or limited hours.
- Book tours in advance: Popular breweries like Fuller’s and Camden Town often require pre-booking for tours.
- Join the Bermondsey Beer Mile: For the ultimate experience, start at London Bridge and visit multiple breweries along the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile on a Saturday.
- Drink responsibly: Remember to pace yourself and stay hydrated, especially if visiting multiple venues.
- Take home souvenirs: Most breweries offer cans, bottles, and merchandise to take home.
London’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, with new breweries opening regularly. Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or just curious about local flavors, these breweries offer a taste of London’s vibrant brewing culture, all accessible via the city’s excellent public transport network.
Cheers to exploring London, one pint at a time!
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