North London Craft Brewery Tour

This review covers the North London Craft Brewery Tour, a lively experience that offers a taste of London’s thriving craft beer culture without the stress of planning. The tour takes you to four well-regarded breweries in the lesser-known areas of North London, giving you a chance to sample a half or two-thirds of a pint at each stop while your guide shares insights into the brewing process and local beer scene. It’s a solid choice for those looking to enjoy good beer, meet fellow travelers, and explore a part of London that often flies under the tourist radar.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it’s organized—your guide handles all the logistics, so you can focus on savoring the beers and chatting with others. Also, the tour’s small-group size (max 20 people) makes for a friendly, intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and everyone gets a chance to connect. Plus, visiting four breweries in just a few hours means you get a broad taste of North London’s craft brewing scene without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

That said, one potential consideration is the limited duration at each brewery—about 45 minutes—which is enough for tasting and chatting but might leave some wanting more time to explore. Since the tour is centered around beer tasting and socializing, it’s best suited for those genuinely interested in craft beer, not just sightseeing.

Key points / Takeaways

• All tastings included in the ticket price mean no surprises or extra costs at each brewery.
• Expert guide Paul Davies is praised for his knowledge, making the experience both educational and engaging.
• Visit four breweries in North London, a part of the city that isn’t overrun with travelers but offers authentic craft beer atmospheres.
• Meet fellow travelers in a small, friendly group, ideal for socializing and making new friends.
• Tour logistics are managed by your guide, easing the planning and transportation concerns.
• Cost of $67 offers a good value for the quality of breweries visited and the experience provided.

Exploring the North London Craft Brewery Tour in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at the Blackhorse Road Underground station, a well-connected spot that makes meeting up straightforward. From there, your guide—most notably Paul Davies—will lead you through an itinerary that packs in four breweries, each with its own character and specialty. Meeting at 1:00 pm, the tour runs approximately three to four hours, which is just enough time to visit all four spots without rushing.

One of the tour’s biggest advantages is that all transportation logistics are handled, so you don’t need to worry about navigating or arranging transport. This setup is especially appealing if you’re unfamiliar with North London or casual about public transit—your guide ensures a smooth journey from one brewery to the next.

The Brewery Stops: What to Expect

Hackney Brewery & High Hill Taproom is the first stop. Expect a friendly, relaxed environment where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute visit. The focus here is on enjoying a half or two-thirds of a pint of beer—or a soft drink if preferred. As noted in reviews, Paul’s extensive knowledge helps answer questions about beer brewing, adding an educational aspect to the tasting.

Next up is Wild Card Brewery, known for its innovative brews. Again, about 45 minutes are spent here, offering a chance to sample more craft creations and hear about the brewery’s unique approach. This stop is a highlight for many, with visitors commenting on the excellent beers and the engaging guide.

Exale Taproom follows, providing yet another distinct flavor of London craft beer. This stop is praised for its friendly environment and great beer options. Expect a similar duration, with opportunities for conversation and learning, as one reviewer mentioned feeling like they’d met an old friend.

Finally, the tour concludes at Signature Brew Taproom, well-loved for its vibrant atmosphere and quality beers. Here, the group can relax and reflect on the day’s tastings, often exchanging impressions and making connections.

Authentic Experiences and Top-Notch Guides

What makes this tour stand out are the guides, especially Paul Davies, who received rave reviews for his friendliness and depth of knowledge. Several reviewers mentioned feeling like they’d met an old friend rather than just being on a tour. One highlighted how questions about beer-making were answered thoroughly, improving the educational value.

The small group size fosters a cozy, social environment—perfect for meeting travelers from abroad, such as the group from Holland mentioned in a review. You’ll find that conversations flow easily, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Price, Value, and Considerations

At $67, the tour offers a fair price considering all beer tastings are included. Visiting four breweries in just over three hours means you’re sampling a decent variety of beers without feeling overly full or rushed. Plus, all logistics are handled, which adds to the overall value.

However, keep in mind that the time at each brewery is limited—around 45 minutes—so if you’re someone who loves to linger or explore in detail, this might feel somewhat brief. Also, since the focus is on sampling and socializing, it’s best suited for those genuinely interested in craft beer rather than casual drinkers or those with strict dietary needs.

Who is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or curious about London’s local brews, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and educational. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid tourist traps and explore a neighborhood that’s vibrant and full of character. The social aspect makes it particularly appealing for solo travelers or small groups who want to connect over a shared interest.

It might not be the best choice if you’re looking for an in-depth beer brewing course or a full-day adventure, but for a manageable, fun introduction to North London’s craft scene, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Mix of Beer, Knowledge, and Local Flavor

This North London Craft Brewery Tour offers a well-rounded experience for anyone interested in discovering authentic local brews without the hassle of organizing everything yourself. The fact that all tastings are included makes it a straightforward, good-value outing. The knowledgeable guides, particularly Paul, elevate the experience by blending education with friendly conversation, making it feel less like a tour and more like visiting friends who just happen to be experts.

If you’re a craft beer lover or simply curious about London’s lesser-known neighborhoods, this tour provides a taste of the city’s creative brewing scene and a chance to meet fellow travelers. It’s a relaxed, social, and informative experience—well worth considering if you want to add a flavorful twist to your London visit.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in craft beer. Soft drinks are available if you prefer not to drink alcohol.

How long does each brewery stop last?
Each stop is approximately 45 minutes, enough time for tasting, questions, and chatting.

Are the beer tastings included in the price?
Yes, all beer tastings are included, so you won’t need to pay extra at each brewery.

What’s the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Blackhorse Road Underground station, which is easy to access via public transportation.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely, soft drinks are available as alternatives during the tastings.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, with a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly atmosphere.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, depending on group pace and stops.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended as the tour depends on availability, and confirmation is received within 48 hours.

If you’re eager to explore North London’s craft beer scene with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is an excellent way to do it—informative, social, and delicious from start to finish.