Have you ever wondered what makes a beer famous in the United Kingdom? Britain is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and, yes—its beer! From cozy pubs in the countryside to busy city bars, British beer is enjoyed by people all over the world. In this article, we’ll look at the top ten beers in the UK, explore the stories behind the breweries and their founders, check where you can find these beers, and mention if these breweries make anything besides beer.
1. Guinness Draught (Guinness Brewery)
Guinness is probably one of the most famous beers in the world, and while its home is in Ireland, it’s incredibly popular across the UK. Guinness was first brewed in 1759 by Arthur Guinness in Dublin. Arthur was a smart and determined man who started his brewery with a 9,000-year lease! Guinness Draught is a dark, creamy stout with a unique taste.
- International Beer? Yes, Guinness is available in over 120 countries.
- Other Liquors? Guinness focuses on beer, but their parent company, Diageo, produces many types of liquors like whiskey and gin.
2. Punk IPA (BrewDog)
BrewDog is a newer brewery that was founded in 2007 in Scotland by James Watt and Martin Dickie. They wanted to create bold, exciting beers and challenge traditional beer-making. Punk IPA is their most famous beer, bursting with fruity flavors.
- International Beer? Yes, BrewDog exports around the world, including to the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia.
- Other Liquors? Yes, BrewDog Distilling Co. makes gin, vodka, and rum.
3. London Pride (Fuller’s Brewery)
Fuller’s Brewery has been part of London’s beer scene since 1845. It was started by John Bird Fuller, Henry Smith, and John Turner. Their classic beer, London Pride, is a smooth and easy-to-drink ale loved by both locals and visitors.
- International Beer? Yes, London Pride is exported to many countries.
- Other Liquors? No, Fuller’s mainly focuses on beer and ale.
4. Old Speckled Hen (Morland & Co., now Greene King)
Old Speckled Hen was first brewed in 1979 by Morland Brewery in Abingdon, England to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the MG car factory. Morland was founded in 1711 by John Morland. Today, Old Speckled Hen is made by Greene King, one of Britain’s largest breweries.
- International Beer? Yes, it is available in the UK and some international markets.
- Other Liquors? Greene King also makes some ciders.
5. Newcastle Brown Ale (Newcastle Breweries, now Heineken UK)
Newcastle Brown Ale is famous for its sweet, nutty flavor. It was first brewed in 1927 by Lt. Col. James Herbert Porter and chemist Archie Jones in Newcastle upon Tyne. The beer became so popular that it won awards soon after its release.
- International Beer? Yes, Newcastle Brown Ale can be found in many countries, including the US.
- Other Liquors? Their current owner, Heineken, produces many types of beer and cider, but Newcastle Breweries focuses on beer.
6. Tennent’s Lager (Tennent Caledonian Breweries)
Tennent’s Lager is a Scottish favorite and has been brewed since 1885. The Tennent family started brewing in Glasgow way back in 1740! Tennent’s Lager is known for being refreshing and easy to drink.
- International Beer? Yes, Tennent’s is sold in Europe, North America, and Australia.
- Other Liquors? Tennent Caledonian focuses mainly on beers and lagers.
7. Hobgoblin (Wychwood Brewery)
Wychwood Brewery was founded in 1983 in Oxfordshire and is best known for its fantasy-themed beers. The founder, Paddy Glenny, wanted to create unique and magical beers for everyone. Hobgoblin is a rich, ruby beer with a mischievous character.
- International Beer? Yes, Hobgoblin is sold in over 40 countries.
- Other Liquors? No, Wychwood only makes beers and ales.
8. Doom Bar (Sharp’s Brewery)
Sharp’s Brewery is located in Cornwall, England, and was founded in 1994 by Bill Sharp. Doom Bar, their most popular beer, is named after a famous sandbank at the mouth of the Camel Estuary. It’s a balanced amber ale with caramel flavors.
- International Beer? Yes, Doom Bar is available in the UK and some international markets.
- Other Liquors? Sharp’s focuses on beer.
9. Spitfire (Shepherd Neame)
Shepherd Neame, based in Kent, is Britain’s oldest brewery, founded in 1698 by Richard Marsh. Spitfire was first brewed in 1990 to honor the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. It’s a classic English ale with a gentle bitterness.
- International Beer? Yes, you can find Spitfire in many countries around the world.
- Other Liquors? Shepherd Neame focuses mainly on beer, but also has some spirits like gin and vodka.
10. Carling Lager (Molson Coors)
Carling Lager is the best-selling beer in the UK, even though its roots are Canadian! It was created in 1840 by Thomas Carling in Ontario, Canada. Today, Carling is brewed in Burton upon Trent, England, and is known for its clean, crisp taste.
- International Beer? Yes, Carling is available in the UK, Europe, and beyond.
- Other Liquors? Molson Coors, the parent company, makes many kinds of beers, ciders, and some spirits.
Conclusion
The UK’s beer scene is exciting and diverse. From old, traditional breweries like Shepherd Neame to creative newcomers like BrewDog, there’s a beer for everyone’s taste. Many of these beers are enjoyed internationally, and some breweries are even branching out into making other types of drinks like gin, vodka, and cider. Whether you’re visiting the UK or just curious, learning about these beers is a fun way to discover British history and culture.
