London: Beer School Experience

If you’re passionate about beer or simply curious about the craft behind your favorite brews, the London Beer School Experience at BrewDog Waterloo offers a unique peek into the world of brewing. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll taste five carefully curated beers, each paired with a delicious cheese board. It’s a fun, relaxed way to explore craft beers and learn a bit about what makes them special—without breaking the bank.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the knowledgeable guides—Cicerone-trained team members who make the tasting engaging and accessible. The in-house microbrewery adds a genuine local touch, giving you a glimpse of the craft beer scene right where some of the best brews are made. However, if you’re after a full-fledged pub crawl or a meal, this might be more of a focused tasting than a full day of drinking.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is designed for adults over 18 and is not suitable for pregnant women or children. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts, couples, or small groups wanting a taste of London’s craft beer culture in a friendly, educational setting. If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and affordable intro to London’s craft beer scene, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable, Cicerone-trained staff who can answer all your beer questions.
• Authentic Microbrewery: Hosted at BrewDog Waterloo, giving a true taste of London’s craft brewing scene.
• Affordable Experience: All this for just £25 — which includes five tastings and a cheese pairing.
• Flexible & Convenient: Starts at various times; easy to fit into your London itinerary.
• Educational & Fun: Perfect for both beer newbies and enthusiasts wanting to expand their palate.
• Limited Additional Cost: No extra charges for the tasting, though food and drinks from the main menu are not included.

A Deep Dive into the London Beer School Experience

What is the tour all about?

This experience offers a guided tasting of five 1/3 pint beers, each selected by the BrewDog team for their quality and distinct styles. Accompanied by a Cicerone-trained guide, you’ll learn about the craft behind each brew, the ingredients involved, and the brewing process itself. This isn’t just a drinking session—it’s an educational journey into London’s vibrant craft beer scene.

The venue: BrewDog Waterloo

Hosting this experience is BrewDog Waterloo, a well-known microbrewery that’s part of the larger BrewDog empire. The setting provides an authentic, casual environment where you can see brewing equipment in action if you arrive early or stay after your tasting. The brewery’s friendly atmosphere is ideal for those new to craft beer, as well as aficionados wanting a behind-the-scenes glimpse.

What makes the tastings special?

Each of the five brews has been selected for their unique profiles—ranging from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts—and is served in precise 1/3 pint measures to allow for tasting without overindulgence. Every beer is paired with a cheese board designed to complement the flavors and soak up the alcohol. The pairing is thoughtfully curated, which allows you to appreciate how food and drink can work together harmoniously.

The cheese pairing: A highlight

You might find that the cheese board is shared between two guests, which encourages a communal, social experience. The cheeses are chosen to enhance the beer tasting, and reviewers have expressed appreciation for the quality and variety. The pairing transforms a simple tasting into a more memorable occasion, especially for those who enjoy exploring food and drink combinations.

The guides and their expertise

Guests consistently highlight how knowledgeable and approachable the BrewDog staff are. They answer questions about brewing styles, ingredients, and even suggest other beers to try later. This adds value far beyond just drinking—think of it as a mini beer education class with friendly hosts.

Is this experience worth the price?

At £25 per person, this experience offers remarkable value. It includes five tastings and a cheese board, which on its own could easily cost more in a pub setting. The guided element enhances the experience, making it both fun and educational. Some reviews mention the tasting is well-paced, allowing enough time to savor each beer and chat with fellow guests.

Practical details: Duration, accessibility, and booking

The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with various start times available—check ahead to match it to your schedule. The activity is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English. You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change. Payment can be made later, making it easier to secure your place without upfront commitment.

Who will enjoy this?

This tour suits a variety of travelers: from craft beer lovers wanting to deepen their knowledge, to curious visitors eager to try something different in London. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples looking for an interactive activity that’s both fun and informative. Since food and additional drinks aren’t included, it’s best viewed as a tasting experience rather than a full meal.

What are the drawbacks?

The main consideration is the limited scope—this isn’t a pub crawl or a meal, so if you want a full pub experience or extensive food options, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, since the cheese board is shared, those who prefer private tastings might find it less personal.

Final Thoughts

The London Beer School Experience at BrewDog Waterloo delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable peek into craft beer culture without the hefty price tag. The combination of expert guidance, authentic brewery setting, and thoughtfully paired tastings makes it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to explore London’s burgeoning craft beer scene in an approachable way.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate learning about what they’re drinking, want a relaxed social atmosphere, and prefer a shorter, more focused activity. Whether you’re a seasoned beer geek or a curious newcomer, this experience offers a friendly, engaging way to spend part of your London visit.

For those seeking a deeper dive into London’s historic sights or a pub crawl, this might be a side adventure instead. But if a fun, educational, and tasty introduction to craft beer appeals to you, this tour hits the spot.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is designed for adults over 18 and is not suitable for pregnant women or children.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits easily into your day.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers five 1/3 pint beer tastings and a cheese board shared between two guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers good flexibility.

Are there multiple start times?
Yes, check availability to see various starting times to suit your schedule.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English.

Are additional drinks or food included?
No, other than the tastings and cheese pairing, food from the main menu and extra drinks are not included.

This guided tasting at BrewDog Waterloo provides a friendly, informative look at the craft beer scene in London. If you’re after a fun, reasonably priced introduction to local brews in a relaxed environment, it’s definitely worth considering.