Delft: Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks

This experience made our article of Which Delft Tours To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks.

Delft: Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks – A Complete Guide

Exploring Delft through its craft beer scene offers a delightful peek into both its history and modern artisanal spirit. This experience takes you inside Delfts Brouwhuis, the city’s youngest brewery, located right in the heart of Delft’s historic center. For about a couple of hours, you’ll enjoy tasting four carefully brewed local beers alongside Bavarian pretzels with homemade cheese-beer dip and mustard, all set in a medieval cellar dating back to around 1300.

What makes this tour stand out are two key features. First, you get to sip genuinely handmade beers in a setting that’s both historic and atmospheric—imagine old stone walls, ancient arches, and the chance to catch the brewer at work. Second, the combination of beers and snacks is both satisfying and authentic, offering a true taste of Delft’s brewing craftsmanship.

A possible consideration is that the tour does not include a guide, so if you’re someone who enjoys detailed storytelling or historical commentary, you might find yourself wishing for more context. Also, participants must be 18 or older, and wheelchair accessibility isn’t available, so plan accordingly. This experience is perfect if you’re a beer lover, curious about local brewing traditions, or simply looking for a relaxed, authentic activity to savor Delft’s unique charm.

This tour suits those who appreciate a good beer, enjoy historic settings, and prefer a laid-back, social atmosphere. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a small group, or a couple, you’ll find this experience offers both value and memorable flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Enjoy tasting in a 700-year-old medieval cellar with archaeological significance.
• Local Craft Beers: Sample 4 different beers from Delftse Brouwers, each with its own character.
• Authentic Snacks: Pair your beers with Bavarian pretzels, cheese-beer dip, and mustard, adding a tasty local twist.
• Informal Atmosphere: No guide means a more intimate, self-paced experience—watch the brewer at work if lucky.
• Accessible for Adults: Designed for those 18+, with no wheelchair access, so plan accordingly.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Delft Craft Beer Experience

The Setting: Stepping Back in Time in a Medieval Cellar

The star of this tour is definitely the medieval cellar, excavated and examined in 2019. Archaeologists uncovered shards of a medieval beer mug, and evidence suggests the space once served as a brewery. This creates a wonderfully tangible link to Delft’s brewing roots. Sitting in this 700-year-old space, surrounded by stone walls and arches, you’re transported away from the modern world into an era when brewing was a craft shared by monks and local artisans.

Touring in such a historic setting adds a special dimension: it’s not just about tasting beers but experiencing a piece of Delft’s past. The atmosphere is cozy and a bit mysterious—perfect for beer enthusiasts who enjoy pairing history with their drinks. As one reviewer noted, “The building itself is pretty cool,” which makes the experience more memorable than just a typical brewery visit.

The Beers: A Handcrafted Selection

The focus here is on local, handcrafted beers. The brewery, Delftse Brouwers, produces four distinct craft beers, which you’ll sample during the experience. Each beer is poured fresh from the kettle, showcasing the brewery’s artisanal approach. The reviews praise the beers as fantastic, with many mentioning the delicious flavor profiles and the care taken in brewing.

If you’re lucky, you might catch the brewer at work—a chance to see Dutch craft brewing in action, adding a practical, behind-the-scenes element that enhances the tasting. The beers are described as genuine, handmade, and pure, making them a treat for those who appreciate craftsmanship.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snacks that Complement the Beers

The snacks included are Bavarian pretzels served with a homemade cheese-beer dip and mustard. The pretzels get high marks for flavor, though some mention they can be quite hard, but the tasty dip helps balance that out. It’s great to have these snacks not only for taste but to cleanse the palate between the different beers.

The Experience: Casual, Authentic, and Enriching

Without a guided tour or narration, this is more of a self-guided experience—though you can still benefit from the friendly atmosphere and the chance to observe the brewing process if it’s happening. The reviews highlight the cozy ambiance and friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming vibe.

The experience lasts about two hours, which is sufficient to relax, taste, and soak in the historic surroundings. It’s a laid-back activity, ideal for those who prefer quality over quantity and enjoy social settings.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Cost: The experience includes four beer tastings and snacks, offering good value given the quality and setting.
• Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours, perfect for a leisurely break in your day.
• Availability: Check current schedules; start times are flexible, but bookings should be made in advance.
• Age & Accessibility: Adults 18+ only; no wheelchair access.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the experience, making it flexible for changing plans.

Authenticity and Value

This tour is not about rushed sampling or touristy gimmicks. Instead, it’s about authentic craftsmanship, a window into Delft’s brewing history, and a chance to enjoy local flavors in an atmospheric setting. When you compare the cost to a typical pub visit, you’re getting a curated experience with added historical intrigue.

What Past Participants Say

Reviewers consistently praise the polite service, the cozy atmosphere, and the high quality of the beers. One said, “All the beer was very good,” and another appreciated the pleasant staff and unusual venue. While some found the pretzels quite tough, most found the overall experience highly enjoyable and recommend it for anyone seeking a unique, relaxed activity in Delft.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys trying local beers and appreciates when history adds depth to your experience, this is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for adults who want a casual, social activity with a hint of culture. It’s also ideal for those interested in Delft’s history, as the brewery is set in a space with centuries of stories.

It’s less suitable for children or those with mobility issues, but for beer enthusiasts and history buffs, it offers a genuine taste of Delft’s artisanal spirit.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults 18 and over, mainly because of the alcohol served.

Can I see the brewer at work?
Yes, if you’re lucky, you might catch the brewer in action while sampling the beers.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically lasts around 1 to 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beer and snacks.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just your passport or ID card to verify your age.

Is there a guide explaining the history or brewing process?
No, the experience is informal and self-guided, but the setting and quality of the beers speak for themselves.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Delft craft beer tour offers a rare combination of history, local craftsmanship, and casual fun. The setting in a 700-year-old cellar provides an atmospheric backdrop, making each sip more meaningful. The four beers are genuinely handmade, and the included snacks complement the tasting experience well.

It’s a perfect activity for beer lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a laid-back, authentic taste of Delft. The lack of a guide may suit those who prefer exploring at their own pace, but even without narration, the historical ambiance and quality beers make for a memorable visit.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, culturally rich activity in Delft that highlights its brewing tradition and offers great value, this experience is worth considering. Just remember to book ahead, bring your ID, and prepare for some flavorful sips in a beautifully historic setting.

Note: Always double-check current availability and starting times before booking, as schedules can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: