Craft Beer and Cider Trail

This tour visits three independent breweries within walking distance of the city centre, sampling craft beers and ciders while learning about Bristol's brewing heritage. You'll meet brewers or staff who explain their production methods, ingredients, and why the city's water and location made it a historic beer-making centre. Light food pairings accompany tastings. For anyone interested in how beer is actually made rather than just drinking it. Best for beer enthusiasts and those interested in local brewing traditions. This is a easy activity lasting 3 hours. Group size: 2-15. You meet at The Grapes pub on Christmas Street. Key highlights: Tour three independent breweries within the city, Taste 6-9 different craft beers and ciders, Learn brewing methods and ingredient sourcing directly from producers.

Price: £35

Duration: 3 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-15

Minimum age: 18+ (ID required)

Best for: beer enthusiasts and those interested in local brewing traditions

Best time: Tuesday through Thursday afternoons or Friday-Saturday mornings avoid the heaviest pub crowds. Spring or early autumn (April-May, September-October) for comfortable walking conditions. Avoid peak lunch hours (12-2pm).

Meeting point: The Grapes pub on Christmas Street

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0:00 Meet at The Grapes and safety briefing - The guide explains the itinerary, brewery locations, and responsible alcohol consumption expectations.

0:15 Walk to first brewery (approximately 10 minutes) - The guide points out historic buildings related to Bristol's brewing past along the route.

0:30 First brewery tour and tastings (30-40 minutes) - Meet a brewer or staff member who explains production process, ingredients, and tries 2-3 different beers or ciders with light snacks.

1:20 Walk to second brewery (10-15 minutes) - More historic context about Bristol's industrial past and current craft beer revival.

1:40 Second brewery tastings (30-40 minutes) - Similar format with 2-3 tastings and light food. Often a different style than the first brewery.

2:30 Walk to third brewery or pub (10 minutes) - Final destination, which might be a brewery or an established pub with craft beer selection.

The whole experience takes 3 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at The Grapes pub on Christmas Street.

• Tour three independent breweries within the city
• Taste 6-9 different craft beers and ciders
• Learn brewing methods and ingredient sourcing directly from producers
• Understand Bristol's historical role in beer and cider production
• Light food pairings with each tasting

What is included: Guided walking tour, Entry to three breweries, 6-9 beer and cider tastings, Light food snacks with pairings, Historical and technical information about local brewing.

Not included: Full meals beyond snacks, Drinks beyond tastings at the three venues, Gratuity or tips, Transportation between venues (walking only). You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Valid ID (required for age verification), Comfortable walking shoes, Water bottle, Jacket or sweater (breweries can be cool), Small bag or backpack. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Tuesday through Thursday afternoons or Friday-Saturday mornings avoid the heaviest pub crowds. Spring or early autumn (April-May, September-October) for comfortable walking conditions. Avoid peak lunch hours (12-2pm)..

Tip: Must be 18+

Tip: Includes light snacks but not full meal

Accessibility: Three breweries are located in the city centre with flat, paved walking routes. Most brewery production areas have stairs or uneven surfaces not suitable for wheelchairs, though tasting areas are usually accessible. Contact Bristol Brewery Tours in advance if you have mobility concerns..

Operator: Bristol Brewery Tours

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Bristol Cathedral (8 min walk)
• Spike Island Artspace (12 min walk)
• M Shed Museum (15 min walk)

This activity is run by Bristol Brewery Tours.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before. Non-refundable within 48 hours..

Accessibility: Three breweries are located in the city centre with flat, paved walking routes. Most brewery production areas have stairs or uneven surfaces not suitable for wheelchairs, though tasting areas are usually accessible. Contact Bristol Brewery Tours in advance if you have mobility concerns..

Best time to go: Tuesday through Thursday afternoons or Friday-Saturday mornings avoid the heaviest pub crowds. Spring or early autumn (April-May, September-October) for comfortable walking conditions. Avoid peak lunch hours (12-2pm)..

I don't drink alcohol. Can I join this tour?

This tour requires participants to be 18+ and is specifically designed around beer and cider tastings. Most tastings cannot be substituted with non-alcoholic alternatives due to brewery and licensing constraints. Consider the St Nicholas Market Food Adventure instead, which focuses on diverse foods.

How much alcohol will I consume during the tour?

You'll taste 6-9 different beers and ciders over three hours. Each tasting is 1-2 ounces, totaling approximately 6-8 ounces of alcohol consumed. Light food is provided to slow absorption. The pace is designed to avoid intoxication but does require responsible drinking.

Do I need previous beer knowledge to enjoy this tour?

No. The guide and brewery staff explain tasting notes, ingredients, and brewing techniques for beginners. You'll learn how to recognise different beer styles, what makes Bristol's water suitable for brewing, and how craft breweries differ from larger producers.