Liverpool: Brewery Bus Tour with 12 Beer and Pizza

If you’re looking for an authentic way to experience Liverpool’s burgeoning craft beer scene, this brewery bus tour offers a lively, behind-the-scenes peek into the city’s hidden brewing gems. Spanning four hours, it combines visits to four off-the-beaten-path breweries, generous tastings of 8-12 freshly crafted beers, and plenty of local flavor—plus a delicious pizza to round out the experience. It’s a well-organized, fun outing designed for those who want more than just a pub crawl; it’s an engaging introduction to Liverpool’s brewing culture, guided by knowledgeable hosts.

Two aspects I particularly appreciate are the exclusive behind-the-scenes brewery visits and the opportunity to meet a beer sommelier—a rare chance to hear the stories behind each brew directly from experts. And let’s not forget the transport; having a bus whisk you from one brewery to the next means you can relax and focus on tasting without worrying about navigating the city’s streets or planning your route.

One consideration is that this tour is not suited for children under 18 and involves visiting multiple breweries, so it’s best for those with a keen interest in craft beer or local culture. Also, it operates rain or shine—so come prepared for whatever the weather. This tour balances value and authenticity, making it a worthwhile choice for beer lovers wanting to explore Liverpool like a local.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique Off-the-Beaten-Path Breweries: The tour focuses on smaller, lesser-known breweries, giving you a glimpse into Liverpool’s vibrant craft scene beyond the tourist spots.
• Expert Insights and Behind-the-Scenes Access: Guides like Darren deliver engaging stories and VIP tours, adding depth to your tasting experience.
• Taste 8-12 Freshly Crafted Beers: You’ll sample a variety of styles, from hoppy pale ales to richer, darker brews, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions.
• Includes Food and a Pizza: A delicious inclusion that complements the beer tastings, making it a full, satisfying experience.
• Convenient Transportation: The bus takes you comfortably between stops, saving you time and energy.
• Small Group and Personal Touch: Limited to just two participants, the tour feels intimate and allows for more personalized interactions with guides.

Liverpool isn’t just about football and music; its craft beer scene has been quietly flourishing, with local breweries crafting beers that reflect the city’s character—innovative, resilient, and welcoming. This brewery bus tour offers a practical way to dive into that world, especially if you’re short on time but eager to get a real taste of what’s brewing beneath the surface.

You’ll start outside the iconic Shankly Hotel, the perfect starting point for a tour rooted in local pride. From there, a 15-minute bus ride whisks you to the first secret stop, where the adventure begins. The itinerary is paced well, with stops ranging from 20-minute quick visits to 45-minute VIP behind-the-scenes tours, ensuring you get a good flavor of each brewery without feeling rushed.

The Breweries and Their Stories

While the specific names of all breweries aren’t listed, the emphasis on off-the-beaten-track venues suggests you’ll visit smaller, independent breweries that often don’t get the spotlight but produce some impressive beers. As one review notes, “Darren’s great knowledge about beers and Liverpool” makes the tour both educational and entertaining, often sprinkled with amusing stories and local insights.

The VIP behind-the-scenes tours are especially valued, giving you access to the brewing process—something that’s often hidden from the casual drinker. It’s an opportunity to see where the magic happens and ask questions about ingredients, techniques, and the history of brewing in Liverpool.

Tasting and Food: A Well-Rounded Experience

Taste is at the heart of this tour, and you’ll sample 8-12 beers, covering a good variety of styles. The reviews praise the “decent and varied beers,” and the inclusion of a pizza means you won’t leave feeling overly bloated or hungry. The food complements the beer, offering a satisfying break and a chance to socialize with your guide and fellow travelers.

Expect to learn about each brew’s story from your guide—likely someone like Darren—whose humor and knowledge add to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. One review mentions a “great talk from the chief brewer at Azvec Brewery,” which hints at the quality of insights you can expect.

The Transportation: Relax and Focus on the Experience

The bus is a major perk—it takes you smoothly between stops, so you can focus on tasting and chatting rather than navigating. The tours are designed for small groups—limited to two participants—which enhances the intimacy and allows guides to tailor the experience.

The entire experience lasts about four hours, making it a manageable but immersive outing. Whether you’re a local looking for a fun afternoon or a visitor eager to explore Liverpool’s craft scene, this tour offers excellent value for the price of $94.29 per person.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts, food lovers, and adventurous travelers who enjoy discovering local culture through its drinks and stories. It’s a great choice if you want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Liverpool’s brewing scene, especially if you value knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences. It’s less suitable for children or those who prefer a more traditional pub crawl—this is more about learning and appreciation than just drinking.

The Liverpool Brewery Bus Tour combines the best of local craftsmanship, engaging storytelling, and relaxed transport, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable outing. For around $94, you get to visit four distinctive breweries, taste a wide selection of beers, and enjoy a tasty pizza—all in four hours. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Liverpool, especially if you’re interested in the city’s emerging craft beer culture.

What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch provided by guides like Darren and the exclusive access to breweries that aren’t typically open to the public. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just curious about Liverpool’s brewing history, this experience offers both education and fun in a compact, friendly package.

If you’re after an authentic, taste-rich demonstration of Liverpool’s local brewing talent, this tour will serve you well. It’s a smart pick for anyone wanting a memorable, flavorful slice of the city’s modern culture.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including visits to multiple breweries, tastings, and food.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy 8-12 beers, visits to 4 breweries, a VIP behind-the-scenes tour, a pizza, and transportation between stops.

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

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a valid ID or passport, as you’ll need it for the alcohol tastings.

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

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What kind of beers will I taste?
Expect a variety of styles, from hoppy ales to darker brews, all freshly crafted by Liverpool’s local breweries.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside The Shankly Hotel and ends back at the same location.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of just two participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the guide’s role?
Your guide, likely someone like Darren, provides insights, stories, and VIP access, making the experience both educational and fun.

This Liverpool brewery tour offers a genuine, enjoyable peek into the city’s craft beer scene, combining local stories with flavorful tastings and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Perfect for those eager to discover Liverpool’s hidden brewing treasures in a fun, intimate setting.