Here it comes! For beer lovers fans all over the world, the Independent Cottages is back again with its list of the top 10 Cities to Drink Craft Beer in Britain in 2024! 76 cities were considered, and these included independent breweries, ones that had one craft beer awards, beer-related online searches, and much more. So where are we going for that pint??
10. Winchester
Winchester, the ancient capital of England, is a city steeped in history and culture. While it’s renowned for its medieval cathedral and connections to King Arthur, Winchester has also embraced the modern craft beer movement. In recent years, the city has seen a surge in local breweries and craft beer pubs, offering visitors and residents alike a taste of traditional English brewing alongside innovative new flavors.
9. Lancaster
Lancaster, a historic city in northwest England, also has given into the craft beer revolution. Known for its stunning castle, Lancaster has also become a destination for beer enthusiasts, with a growing number of microbreweries and craft beer bars dotting its charming streets.
8. Manchester
Manchester, the vibrant metropolis in northwest England, has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the UK’s craft beer scene. The city’s industrial heritage and innovative spirit have seamlessly translated into a thriving beer culture, with numerous microbreweries, taprooms, and craft beer bars scattered throughout its bustling neighborhoods.
Read more here: 10 Most Popular Whisky Distilleries in the UK and Ireland!
7. Inverness, Scotland
Inverness, the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, has been a force in the craft beer movement with characteristic Highland enthusiasm. This city, known for its stunning landscapes and proximity to Loch Ness, has seen a burgeoning craft beer scene emerge in recent years. Local breweries and craft beer pubs in Inverness are crafting unique brews that often incorporate traditional Scottish ingredients and techniques, offering visitors a taste of the Highlands’ rich flavors alongside contemporary craft beer innovations.
Read More: Try Making A Whisky Cocktail
6. Durham
Durham, another picturesque city in northeast England famous for its Norman cathedral and castle, has seen a flourishing of microbreweries and craft beer bars, blending its ancient charm with a modern drinking culture. From cozy pubs tucked away in medieval streets to innovative taprooms, Durham offers beer enthusiasts a diverse range of locally brewed ales and craft beers, often inspired by the city’s rich heritage and the surrounding North East landscape.
Read more here: 10 Most Popular Whisky Distilleries in the UK and Ireland!
5. Worcester
Worcester with its cathedral city in the heart of England’s West Midlands, has enthusiastically joined the craft beer movement. The birthplace of composer Edward Elgar, Worcester has also become a notable destination for beer enthusiasts. The city boasts a growing number of microbreweries and craft beer pubs, offering a diverse range of locally brewed ales and innovative craft beers that complement its traditional brewing heritage.
4. Salisbury
Salisbury with its stunning cathedral and proximity to Stonehenge, has seen a flourishing craft beer scene emerge in recent years, with local breweries and pubs offering a diverse range of artisanal ales and innovative brews. Salisbury’s craft beer offerings provide a perfect blend of ancient heritage and modern flavors, allowing visitors to savor unique, locally-crafted beers while exploring the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Read more here: 10 Most Popular Whisky Distilleries in the UK and Ireland!
3. Bath
Bath, the elegant Georgian city in southwest England with its stunning architecture, is usually known for its refined culture and thermal springs, not a burgeoning craft beer! Bath offers beer enthusiasts a delightful mix of innovative craft brews and traditional ales, often inspired by the city’s rich history and the surrounding Somerset countryside.
2. Canterbury
Canterbury, the historic cathedral city and the seat of the Anglican Church, is #2 on the lust because city’s craft beer scene is just so great! From traditional English styles to experimental brews, Canterbury’s craft beer offerings provide a perfect complement to its ancient streets and timeless attractions.
1. Newcastle
Newcastle has firmly established itself as the #1 destination for craft beer enthusiasts in Britain. Known for its industrial heritage and passionate locals, Newcastle has transformed its beer scene into a craft brewing powerhouse. The city boasts an impressive array of microbreweries, taprooms, and craft beer bars, offering an unparalleled variety of innovative and expertly crafted brews, making it the ultimate pilgrimage site for beer lovers across the UK and beyond.
Don’t Miss: The Best Bars of London’s South Kensington
Heading to London after all that fun beer tasting? Don’t miss Soho – the best area in London to drink!