3 Locks Brewing Company: Guided tasting and brewery tour

If you’re a beer enthusiast or just curious about the art of brewing, the 3 Locks Brewing Company tour in Camden offers a chance to see a local, independent brewery up close. This 1.5-hour experience packs in a guided tasting of six different beers, a peek into the brewhouse, and the chance to drink straight from the tank. Located right in the heart of Camden Market, this tour stands out for its friendly atmosphere and generous pours.

What really makes this experience shine is the knowledgeable guides who bring the brewing process to life, making it more than just a tasting — it’s an educational journey. For beer lovers, the opportunity to try beer straight from the tank offers a unique, authentic experience you won’t find elsewhere. However, with a price tag of around $40 per person, it’s worth considering whether this is a good value for your personal interest in craft beer and brewery tours.

This tour is best suited for those who love beer, enjoy discovering local breweries, and want a relaxed, fun outing in Camden. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 18, and comfortable footwear is recommended since you’ll be on your feet touring the brewhouse.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Drink beer straight from the tank — a rare treat.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides provide engaging, enthusiastic insights into brewing.
• Generous Beer Tasting: Six beers included, with more beer than most brewery tours.
• Good Value: Price includes a welcome beer, guided tasting, and a final beer — plus discounts in the taproom.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Located right next to Camden Market, offering a genuine local vibe.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Exploring the Camden Brewery Tour in Detail

Setting the Scene: Starting at 3 Locks Brewing Company

The tour begins at the brewery itself, situated conveniently in Camden. You’ll check in with the bar team, and from there, you’ll be led into what feels like a cozy, unpretentious brewery space. It’s the perfect backdrop for a laid-back, informative experience. The fact that it’s Camden’s first independent brewery adds a bit of local pride to the visit, and guides like the energetic and knowledgeable brewer Jesper are praised for their enthusiasm and humor, making the tour both fun and informative.

The Guided Tasting: Six Beers and More

The core of this experience is the guided tasting, where you’ll sample six different beers. The tour includes a welcome beer, which sets a friendly tone right from the start. The guide walks you through each brew, explaining the ingredients, flavor profiles, and what makes each one unique. Reviewers like Tobias mentioned, “Great guide and lots of beer,” emphasizing that the tasting is generous and well-presented.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to drink beer straight from the tank. This is a rare chance for beer lovers to experience the freshest possible beer, often with a slightly different flavor profile compared to bottled or kegged versions. It’s an authentic peek into the brewing process that most casual beer drinkers will appreciate.

Behind the Scenes: Tour of the Brewhouse

After the tasting, you’ll get a full tour of the brewhouse. Guides like Jesper describe the process in an engaging way, sharing insights about the brewing equipment and techniques—adding a layer of technical appreciation to the tasting. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, which feels just right to cover all the bases without overextending.

Final Cheers and Discounts

As the tour wraps up, you’ll enjoy a final beer, celebrating your newfound knowledge and tasting experience. Plus, all guests receive a 10% discount in the taproom, making it a good opportunity to pick up some merchandise or enjoy more beers at a reduced price.

What the Reviews Reveal

Multiple reviewers highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the guides. Tobias called the guide “great,” while GetYourGuide traveler mentioned the presentation as “content-rich” and praised the host’s commitment. Jesper’s enthusiasm and humor appear to be a highlight, making what might otherwise be a straightforward brewery tour into a lively, memorable experience.

The reviews also emphasize the generous amount of beer provided. For just £30 (roughly $40), guests get a welcome beer, a guided tasting of six beers, a beer in the brewhouse, and a final beer—more than enough to satisfy even hearty drinkers.

Considerations for Visitors

While many love the relaxed, friendly vibe, some should note that closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons, and those under 18 are not permitted. The tour is quite social, so if you’re looking for a more formal or quiet experience, this might not be the best fit.

Analyzing the Value

At around $40, the cost might seem steep compared to some other local attractions, but considering the amount of beer included and the exclusive experience of drinking straight from the tank, it’s actually quite a fair deal. For craft beer enthusiasts, the educational element and behind-the-scenes access make it particularly worthwhile. Plus, the discount in the taproom encourages further exploration, adding extra value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers eager to learn about the brewing process while sampling high-quality craft beers. It’s also suited for those who enjoy informal, lively tours with friendly guides who are passionate about their craft. If you’re visiting Camden and want a fun, authentic taste of local brewing culture, this tour is a fantastic choice.

However, it’s less suited for families with young children or those seeking a more formal, sit-down tasting experience. The 1.5-hour duration suits those with flexible schedules who want a relaxed, engaging activity in Camden.

Final Thoughts

The 3 Locks Brewing Company tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of craft brewing right in lively Camden. The combination of generous tastings, an insider’s look at the brewhouse, and the chance to drink beer straight from the tank makes for an engaging, authentic experience. Guides like Jesper bring an extra layer of enthusiasm and knowledge, ensuring you’ll leave with a better appreciation of how good beer is made.

If you’re seeking a fun, informal way to spend an afternoon, and you’re interested in craft beer, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a lively, educational outing that celebrates local brewing talent, making it well worth considering during your trip to London.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a welcome beer, guided tasting of six beers, a beer in the brewhouse, a final beer, and a 10% discount in the taproom.

Can I drink beer straight from the tank?
Yes, this tour provides the unique opportunity to drink beer straight from the tank, offering a fresh taste not available elsewhere.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons, especially when touring the brewhouse.

How do I book the tour?
Tickets can be booked online, with options to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the best part of the experience?
Many visitors highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and the opportunity to taste beer straight from the tank as the tour’s highlight.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the amount and quality of beer, as well as the behind-the-scenes access, it offers good value for beer aficionados.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the 3 Locks Brewing Company and concludes back there after the tour, making logistics simple.

In summary, the 3 Locks Brewing Company guided tour provides a highly enjoyable, authentic look at craft brewing in Camden. Perfect for those who love beer, enjoy learning, and want a relaxed experience that combines education and tasting in a lively setting.