3 Locks Brewing Company: Guided tasting and brewery tour

Exploring the 3 Locks Brewing Company Guided Tasting and Brewery Tour

If you’re looking for a fun, casual way to experience London’s vibrant craft beer scene, the 3 Locks Brewing Company tour in Camden is worth considering. While I haven’t done it myself, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions tell a compelling story about what you can expect. It’s a mix of good company, interesting brewing insights, and, of course, plenty of beer.

What really catches the eye is the chance to drink beer straight from the tank—a rare treat for beer lovers. Plus, the guided tasting of six different beers promises a good variety, and the fact that you get more beer than most similar tours makes it stand out. But, it’s not just about drinking; the brewery offers a behind-the-scenes look at how their beer is made, adding an extra layer of interest.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost—around $40 per person, which on the surface sounds fair for a craft beer experience, but you’ll want to weigh it against how much you value guided tours and the unique aspect of drinking directly from the tank. This tour seems best suited for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to enjoy a different side of Camden.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Drink beer straight from the tank, which is not something you find everywhere.
• Full Guided Tasting: Enjoy six different beers with expert commentary, plus a welcome beer at the start.
• Location Perks: The brewery is right in Camden Market, a lively spot with plenty of other things to explore afterward.
• Extra Savings: Tour includes a 10% discount in the taproom for beers and merchandise.
• Duration & Flexibility: The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with flexible start times (check availability).
• No Children Allowed: This is an adult-only experience, perfect for those 18+ who love beer.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the 3 Locks Brewery Tour

The Setting: Camden Market’s First Brewery

The tour begins at 3 Locks Brewing Company, a notable spot because it’s Camden’s first independent brewery. Its location right in the heart of Camden Market makes it ideal for combining with a day of exploring the lively surroundings, street food, and eclectic shops. The brewery’s atmosphere is casual and friendly, perfect for those who enjoy a laid-back, informal vibe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off by checking in with the bar team—simple and straightforward, ensuring a relaxed start. Then, you’re taken on a guided tour of the brewhouse that’s both informative and engaging. The guide is described as very enthusiastic, humorous, and knowledgeable according to reviews, which helps keep the mood light and fun.

Next, expect a guided tasting of six beers. This isn’t just a flight of samples; it’s a curated experience that gives you a sense of the brewery’s range and style. Some reviews emphasize the “content-rich” presentation—meaning the guide explained the beers well and shared interesting insights. Plus, you get to drink in the brewery, which adds a certain authenticity you won’t get at a bar or pub.

Drinking Straight from the Tank

The highlight for many is drinking beer straight out of the tank. This is a rare opportunity and adds a fun, almost behind-the-scenes feel to the tour. Think of it as a small peek into the brewing process—where you can taste the freshness and purity of the beer before it hits the bottles or cans.

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Wrap-up and Extra Perks

The tour concludes with a final beer, allowing you to relax and enjoy your newfound knowledge. As a bonus, everyone gets a 10% discount in the taproom for beers and merchandise, which is a nice little incentive to linger and pick up some souvenirs or a fresh pint after the tour.

What We Love (and What to Watch For)

People rave about the enthusiastic and humorous guide. As one reviewer put it, the guide was “very enthusiastic, humorous and knowledgeable,” making the experience both fun and educational. The ample amount of beer—more than most similar brewery tours—means you’re likely to leave feeling satisfied, especially if you’re a big beer fan.

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a tour for children or anyone under 18, given the alcohol focus. Also, the tour is about 1.5 hours long, which is just enough time to enjoy a good tasting without it dragging on.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is perfect if you’re someone who loves craft beer or wants to get a behind-the-scenes look at a small London brewery. It’s also a good fit for those who enjoy guided tastings and learning more about brewing in a friendly environment.

If you’re visiting Camden and looking for something engaging without it being overly formal or touristy, this tour hits that sweet spot. Plus, being right in Camden Market means you can easily combine it with some street food or shopping afterward, making it a practical addition to your day.

How the Price Adds Up

At around $40.41, the tour seems fairly priced considering the guided experience, multiple tastings, and the exclusive chance to drink directly from the tank. When compared to other experiences that include similar features, you’re getting a pretty good deal, especially with the added discount on merchandise and drinks afterward.

Final Thoughts on the 3 Locks Brewing Company Tour

This tour offers a friendly, immersive experience that combines education, tasting, and entertainment. It’s especially appealing to beer lovers eager to explore a local brewery with a knowledgeable guide. The fact that you get more beer than typical brewery tours makes it stand out, and drinking straight from the tank adds a memorable touch.

It’s not a tour for those seeking a family-friendly or kid-centric activity, but if you’re over 18 and want to enjoy a relaxed, well-organized tasting session with some good laughs and interesting insights, this could be just your thing. The overall reviews reflect a consistent level of enthusiasm and satisfaction, making it a trustworthy choice for your London trip.

If you’re curious about the brewing process, love trying new beers, or just want to add a fun, casual activity to your Camden itinerary, this tour fits the bill nicely.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 due to the alcohol consumption involved.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and relaxed experience.

Do I need to pay upfront or can I reserve and pay later?
You can reserve now and choose to pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a welcome beer, a guided tasting of six beers, a beer in the brewhouse, beer straight from the tank, and a final beer at the end.

Can I get a discount on drinks or merchandise?
Yes, all tour guests enjoy a 10% discount in the taproom on beers and merchandise.

Are there any special rules I should be aware of?
Yes, open-toed shoes are not allowed for safety reasons.

What should I bring or wear?
Just comfortable clothes and perhaps a sense of curiosity. As it’s an indoor brewery, dress appropriately for a casual, indoor environment.

This guided brewery tour at 3 Locks Brewing Company strikes a nice balance between fun and informative, making it a solid choice for anyone keen to explore Camden’s craft beer scene in a relaxed way. Whether you’re a serious beer enthusiast or just looking for a different activity in London, it’s worth considering—and who knows, you might find your new favorite brew!

You can check availability for your dates here: