London is a city that’s famous not just for its history and royal palaces, but also for its thriving craft beer scene. With over 130 breweries in the city, there’s no shortage of options to explore local brewing talent. Whether you’re after a quick tasting in Camden or a deep dive into Bermondsey’s renowned “beer mile,” London’s brewery tours offer something for every beer lover. We particularly like the 3 Locks Brewing Company tour for its lively atmosphere and the chance to drink straight from the tank, making it a fun and authentic experience.
Of course, if you’re interested in exploring London’s craft beer scene more extensively, the Bermondsey Craft Brewery Tour stands out for its in-depth look at some of the city’s best breweries along the famous ‘beer mile.’ For those with a bit more time and a love for variety, the Guided Brewery Tour through Camden & Brixton combines lively neighborhoods, brewery visits, and the opportunity to enjoy food alongside your beers. Below, we’ll walk you through each of these options to help you choose the right tour for your tastes and schedule.
1. 3 Locks Brewing Company: Guided tasting and brewery tour
At number one on our list is the 3 Locks Brewing Company tour, which offers an intimate look at Camden’s first-ever brewery. This 1.5-hour experience takes you right to the heart of Camden Market, where you’ll enjoy a guided tasting led by enthusiastic brewers who are passionate about their craft. What sets this tour apart is the chance to drink beer straight from the tank, giving you a taste of brewing in its freshest form. The tour includes more beer than most other breweries, making it a good value at just over $40 per person.
The tour begins at the brewery itself, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The guide shares insights about the ingredients and techniques used, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a mini-lesson in craft brewing. The reviews rave about the friendly guide and the generous servings of beer. One reviewer simply says, “Top location next to Camden Market with excellent beer,” and many appreciate the lively, humorous atmosphere. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a casual, informative experience combined with some fun tasting.
Bottom Line: An engaging, relaxed introduction to Camden’s brewing scene, ideal for those wanting a lively, beer-focused tour that includes the chance to drink straight from the tank.
2. London: Bermondsey Craft Brewery Tour
The Bermondsey Craft Brewery Tour is a must for serious beer enthusiasts. With a duration of 3.5 hours, it offers a comprehensive look at London’s famous ‘beer mile’—a stretch of street in Bermondsey home to over 130 breweries and taprooms. The tour is led by a professional guide who knows the scene inside out, sharing stories about the breweries’ histories and what makes London’s craft scene so vibrant.
What makes this tour a standout is the chance to sample some of London’s best craft beers at multiple locations. You’ll visit renowned breweries, taste different styles, and learn how to evaluate beer like an international beer judge. The guide’s expertise is evident, making the experience educational as well as fun. One reviewer commented, “Paul is truly an expert, and the tour is full of information, history, and great beer.” The variety and depth of the experience make it a great choice if you want to dive deep into London’s craft beer culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for craft beer aficionados eager to explore multiple breweries and learn tasting techniques, all in a relaxed group setting. It offers excellent value given the depth of experience.
3. London: Guided Brewery Tour through Camden & Brixton
For those wanting a more extensive tour that covers different neighborhoods, the Camden & Brixton Brewery Tour is a great pick. Over four hours, this tour visits Camden Brewery for a guided look at their brewing process, plus tasting samples. Afterward, you’ll hop on a train to Brixton, where you get to explore another vibrant brewery. The tour also offers the chance to stop for food, whether it’s pizza, hot dogs, or other local bites, making it a well-rounded outing.
This tour is especially valuable for those wanting to see both a classic Camden brewery and the lively Brixton scene, with a total immersion in London’s diverse neighborhoods. The tours are weekly, which helps with planning, and the small-group format ensures a personal experience. The price is higher at around $337 per person, but the combination of two breweries and food options provides good overall value.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, neighborhood-hopping tour suited for those who want to see more of London’s brewery culture along with some food. It’s perfect if you have a half-day to spare and enjoy diverse beer environments.
$336.75 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal London Brewery Tour
When selecting the best brewery tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a short, fun introduction to Camden’s brewing scene, the 3 Locks Brewing Company is perfect. If you’re eager to explore London’s craft beer scene in-depth and learn tasting techniques, the Bermondsey Beer Mile is the best choice. For those who want a mix of neighborhoods and the chance to enjoy food with their beers, the Camden & Brixton offers a well-rounded experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, and check the availability to plan around your London itinerary. Keep in mind that tours range from casual tasting sessions to more detailed explorations, so pick one that matches your curiosity and schedule.
Final Thoughts
London’s beer scene is vibrant and diverse, with options suitable for every taste and schedule. Whether you’re after a quick, tank-drinking experience in Camden, a deep dive along Bermondsey’s famous beer mile, or a neighborhood-hopping tour with food and plenty of tasting, there’s a tour waiting for you. For first-timers, the 3 Locks Brewing Company offers a lively, accessible introduction, while the Bermondsey craft tour is perfect for those wanting to learn more about London’s craft beer culture. The Camden & Brixton provides a more comprehensive day out.
No matter which you choose, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these taste-filled adventures. Cheers to exploring London’s fantastic breweries—your pint awaits!