Craft Beer Tour around Manchester

Discover Manchester’s Craft Beer Scene with an Expert-Led Tour

Manchester’s craft beer scene is thriving, with countless microbreweries and independent bars offering innovative brews that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. This 3-hour 30-minute Craft Beer Tour promises not only a curated tasting experience but also a chance to explore some of the city’s hidden spots, guided by someone who knows what makes Manchester’s beer culture so special. From sampling a variety of styles to learning about local brewing traditions, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

One of the standout features of this tour is the knowledgeable guide, Isla, who has earned praise for her friendly, informative approach. She takes the guesswork out of choosing the best spots, ensuring your time is well spent at microbreweries loved by locals. Plus, the small group size of up to 20 travelers creates a cozy, social atmosphere that’s perfect for meeting new friends and sharing stories over a glass of excellent beer.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour tends to focus heavily on IPAs, which might not appeal to everyone if you’re seeking more variety. While most of the beers are within this popular style, some reviewers expressed a wish for a broader selection, including darker beers. That said, the variety offered is generally well-received, and the overall value for the price is recognized as excellent for what you get.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy craft beers, want a relaxed way to spend an afternoon, or are celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or bachelor party. It’s also a perfect choice for travelers eager to see parts of Manchester they might overlook on their own, combined with the chance to learn about the city’s vibrant brewing culture.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: Visit Manchester’s favorite microbreweries and bars, hand-picked by locals.
• Inclusive tasting: All beer samples are included in the tour price, offering a broad taste of Manchester’s craft scene.
• Expert guidance: The knowledgeable guide, Isla, makes the experience both educational and fun, sharing insights into beer styles and local history.
• Social atmosphere: Small group size fosters conversations and new friendships.
• Flexible and convenient: Starts at 1:30 pm from the centrally located Fell Northern Quarter and lasts around 3.5 hours, ending at Sureshot Taproom.
• Great value: At just under $62 per person, this tour provides a curated experience at a reasonable price, considering the number of tastings and local insights.

A Deep Dive into the Manchester Craft Beer Tour

Starting Point and Overall Flow
The tour kicks off at 35 Dale Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at 1:30 pm, a lively, artsy part of the city perfect for beer lovers. From there, the small group heads to a selection of local breweries and craft beer bars. The first stop is free to enter—think of it as a warm-up where your guide sets the tone for the afternoon.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop
Each venue on the itinerary has been carefully chosen for its popularity among Mancunian beer fans. Reviewers highlight Isla’s friendly, knowledgeable style, which transforms the experience into more than just tasting beers—it’s a mini-lesson in Manchester’s brewing evolution. As one guest noted, Isla was “really good, very friendly and informative,” and she even showed parts of Manchester not typically visited by travelers.

The Beer Sampling Experience
All tastings are included, and the variety is generally praised. Reviewers mention a “great choice of beers” and appreciate the diversity, though some noted the beers skew towards IPAs. One reviewer said they’d have liked “a couple of dark beers to add variety,” which could be a consideration for those seeking a broader spectrum. Still, the selection is seen as satisfying, especially given the short duration of the tour.

Learning and Local Insights
Beyond just drinking, the guide shares nuggets about Manchester’s beer scene and brewing history, adding context that elevates the experience. Guests have appreciated the mix of beer facts and local stories, making it both educational and engaging. This approach suits travelers who enjoy learning about local culture while sampling craft beverages.

The Social Element
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour fosters a friendly, relaxed environment. Reviewers mention that the small group helped them make friends, and many found the tour “really fun” and “a great afternoon off.” It’s perfect for those traveling alone or in small groups looking to connect over good drinks.

Timing and Duration
Starting at 1:30 pm, the tour lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, making it a manageable afternoon activity. The final stop at Sureshot Taproom provides a nice ending point, where you can continue to enjoy Manchester’s craft scene if you wish.

The Value of the Tour

At approximately $62 per person, this experience offers a solid value considering the number of tastings, guided insights, and the chance to explore Manchester’s microbrewery culture. Given that most travelers book the tour about a month in advance and reviews consistently rate it 5 stars, it’s clear that many see this as a worthwhile way to spend an afternoon. The included beer samples alone would typically cost more than the tour price if bought individually at each venue.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Book in advance: The tour tends to fill up, with an average booking window of 37 days.
• Accessibility: The starting point is near public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to access.
• Group size: The tour caps at 20 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.
• Weather considerations: Mostly an outdoor-friendly experience, but be prepared for the possibility of walking between venues.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for craft beer lovers, especially those eager to explore Manchester’s local breweries with a knowledgeable guide. It’s also excellent for solo travelers or small groups seeking a social activity, as the small group setting encourages conversation and connection. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to spend a relaxed, fun afternoon, this tour ticks those boxes.

If you’re after a diverse beer selection, you might want to check if dark beers are available during your visit, as some reviews mentioned a desire for more variety. Still, the overall experience is highly praised for its authenticity, local insights, and friendly atmosphere.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be accessible. Service animals are also allowed. If you’re unsure about mobility or dietary restrictions, it’s worth contacting the provider directly.

What is included in the tour price?
All the beer samples are included in the $61.97 cost, giving you the chance to try a range of styles without paying extra at each venue.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, starting at 1:30 pm from the Northern Quarter and ending at Sureshot Taproom.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 35 Dale Street and finishes at 4 Sheffield Street, both in central Manchester.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours before the start time, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.

What if I want to explore more breweries afterward?
The tour ends at Sureshot Taproom, a great spot to continue enjoying Manchester’s craft beer scene on your own.

To sum it up, this Manchester craft beer tour combines local insight, a friendly guide, and a curated selection of microbreweries into a charming, worthwhile experience. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good beer and want a relaxed, social way to explore Manchester’s vibrant craft scene. While it leans toward IPAs, the overall value and authentic atmosphere make it a popular choice for travelers seeking a fun, informative afternoon. Whether celebrating or just indulging your curiosity, this tour offers a memorable taste of Manchester’s brewing talent.