A craft beer tasting tour of the Bermondsey Beer Mile

If you’re a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a fun way to explore one of London’s most vibrant artisan neighborhoods, this Bermondsey Beer Mile tour offers a fantastic way to sample some of the city’s best brews. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll visit five premium microbreweries and taprooms, sampling half pints of diverse beers along the route. This experience is perfect for those who love discovering new flavors, learning about local breweries, or just want a relaxed afternoon of tasting in a lively, authentic setting.

One of the standout features of this tour is the expert guidance provided by guides like Paul, who are not only friendly but also surprisingly well-versed in beer styles and brewery histories. It’s clear they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. However, keep in mind that the tour’s limited to groups of 20, which means it retains an intimate, personalized feel. If you’re a fan of craft beer or curious about London’s burgeoning brewing scene, this tour offers excellent value for the quality and authenticity you’ll experience.

On the flip side, since the tour is non-refundable and requires booking in advance (with an average of 36 days), it’s best to plan ahead if you want to secure a spot. That said, the $67.49 per person fee includes all tastings and soft drinks, making it a straightforward, no-hidden-cost outing. Overall, it’s a well-balanced choice for travelers wanting a taste of local London life, or for locals eager to explore their city with a new perspective.

Key Points

• Expert local guides enhance the experience with insightful comments and brewery tips
• Five different venues showcase London’s innovative craft brewing scene
• Inclusive tastings at each stop make it easy to sample a range of beers without extra expense
• Authentic, small-group atmosphere keeps the experience personal and engaging
• Duration of 3-4 hours allows for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed
• Ideal for beer lovers and curious explorers alike, with something for both travelers and locals

An In-Depth Look at the Bermondsey Beer Mile Craft Beer Tour

This London-based tour offers more than just a quick drink stop. It’s a carefully curated journey through one of the city’s most dynamic and creative neighborhoods, known affectionately as the Bermondsey Beer Mile. This area has exploded with microbreweries and taprooms over recent years, transforming it into a craft beer haven. The tour’s careful design balances tasting, learning, and enjoying the neighborhood’s unique vibe.

Meeting Point and Duration

The experience kicks off at the Southwark Brewing Company, located at 46 Druid Street. You’ll meet your guide here, and the tour lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours. The end point is Bianca Road Brew Co., situated at 83-84 Enid Street, which makes it convenient if you want to continue your explorations afterward. The tour is designed to be leisurely, allowing plenty of time at each stop to chat, taste, and soak in the atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The first thing that catches your attention is the personalized nature of the experience. With a maximum of 20 travelers, you won’t feel lost in a crowd. It’s a more intimate way to discover London’s craft beer scene, with guides like Paul praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge. One reviewer appreciated Paul’s “insightful explainers around each of the beers,” which really helps you understand what you’re tasting rather than just drinking blindly.

Another highlight is the variety of breweries visited. Anspach & Hobday’s The Arch House offers a cozy introduction with half a pint or soft drink included. Southwark Brewing Company gives you a taste of their signature brews, and Brew by Numbers is known for its creative styles. Bianca Road Brew Co. and The Kernel Brewery round out the experience with more diverse beers, giving you a broad sense of London’s craft brewing creativity.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Anspach & Hobday – The Arch House
This spot is perfect for easing into the tour. You’ll try a half pint or a soft drink, getting a feel for local brewing styles in a relaxed setting. The venue is welcoming, with a good mix of traditional and modern touches.

Southwark Brewing Company
Here, you’ll taste a different style of beer, perhaps one of their popular brews. The guide’s commentary adds context about the brewery’s philosophy and brewing process, enriching your tasting experience. It’s notable that the guides are praised for their knowledge, making each stop both educational and enjoyable.

Brew by Numbers
This brewery is well-known for its innovative recipes and meticulous attention to detail. You’ll sample a beer that showcases their creative approach, which might include unusual flavor combinations or eye-catching labels. Their tasting method is also highlighted as engaging, offering a good mix of styles.

Bianca Road Brew Co.
This stop is more laid-back, with a focus on craft beers that reflect a modern London vibe. Expect to try a half pint or soft drink, and learn about their brewing philosophy. Reviewers mention the friendly atmosphere and the chance to ask questions, making it a personal experience.

The Kernel Brewery
The last stop is longer, giving you more time to enjoy their offerings. Known for high-quality, well-crafted beers, The Kernel is a highlight of the tour. The guide’s insights into each beer and the brewery’s history add depth to the tasting. Expect to spend around 45 minutes here, allowing for a relaxed appreciation of their diverse selection.

The Value of the Experience

For $67.49, the tour provides a lot of value. It includes all tastings, which would easily add up if you bought each beer separately. Plus, the guided aspect means you’re not just wandering aimlessly—you’re gaining knowledge about beer styles, brewing techniques, and the local scene from someone who genuinely cares.

Reviews also echo this sentiment. One reviewer loved that Paul was “friendly and knowledgeable,” and appreciated his tips on local spots worth visiting afterward. Another praised the variety of styles sampled and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of the group.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour’s schedule is flexible enough for most travelers. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central London. The mobile tickets simplify the process, and directions are provided to the closest underground station. Keep in mind that cancellations are non-refundable, so planning ahead is recommended.

Most travelers find that booking about a month in advance secures their spot, reflecting its popularity. Given the intimate size and personalized experience, it’s a smart idea to reserve early.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is best suited for beer lovers looking to explore London’s craft scene in a relaxed setting. It’s also perfect for visitors wanting a taste of local culture and craftsmanship, or locals eager to rediscover their city’s emerging breweries. If you enjoy learning about beer styles, trying a variety of brews, or simply want a fun, social outing, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

It’s not ideal for those with very limited mobility, as the tour involves walking between venues, but most people should find it manageable. Also, keep in mind that it’s a non-refundable booking, so plan accordingly if your schedule is uncertain.

Final Thoughts

This Bermondsey Beer Mile craft beer tour offers a well-balanced blend of tasting, learning, and socializing. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure an engaging experience, whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious beginner. The route through five carefully selected breweries gives you a genuine look at London’s thriving craft beer scene—without the hassle of navigating alone.

At just over two hours, the tour provides enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, making it ideal for a relaxed afternoon. The inclusive tastings mean you get to sample a wide variety of beers, while the insights from your guide deepen your appreciation for the brewing craft.

This tour is a fantastic way to spend part of a London day—whether you’re in town for a visit or a local wanting to explore familiar streets from a new perspective. It’s authentic, fun, and full of flavor—just like the best beer.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour includes soft drinks, so if you prefer not to drink alcohol, you can still enjoy the experience and taste the non-alcoholic options.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving enough time to visit five breweries comfortably.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Southwark Brewing Company and concludes at Bianca Road Brew Co., making it easy to access via public transportation and suitable for continuing your day afterward.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, each stop includes a half pint or 2/3 of a beer, plus soft drinks, all covered in the $67.49 fee.

Is the tour group size small?
Yes, with a maximum of 20 travelers, the experience remains intimate and allows for personalized interaction with your guide.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 36 days in advance is typical, as the tour is popular and spots fill up quickly.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is it easy to find the meeting point?
Yes, directions are provided, and the meeting point is near public transport options.

What makes this tour stand out compared to other London activities?
The combination of expert guides, authentic breweries, and a relaxed atmosphere makes this a unique and highly enjoyable way to explore London’s craft beer scene.

This comprehensive beer tour provides an authentic, engaging, and well-organized way to discover London’s craft brewing gems. Whether you’re a local or visiting, it’s a chance to enjoy good drinks, learn something new, and meet fellow enthusiasts in a lively neighborhood setting.