London: Beer School Experience

If you’re into beer (or just curious about it), the London Beer School experience offers a fun, relaxed way to explore some of the city’s local brews. Hosted at BrewDog Waterloo, this tasting session isn’t about getting completely tipsy — it’s about appreciating the craft behind the beers, learning what makes each one special, and enjoying some good cheese along the way.

What really draws us in is the knowledgeable guidance from staff trained as Cicerones. Plus, the pairing with cheese makes it a well-rounded, satisfying experience. But, it’s worth noting that it’s a fairly short session — just 1.5 hours — so if you’re after a deep dive into brewing, this might be more of a sampler than an exhaustive course. It’s a perfect fit for those who want a taste of London’s craft beer scene without breaking the bank or dedicating an entire day.

One possible snag? If you don’t drink alcohol or are pregnant, this activity isn’t suited for you. Also, if you’re traveling with kids under 18, it’s not suitable — which makes sense given the focus on beer. That said, for adults looking for a casual, educational, and flavorful experience, this is a solid choice.

Who is this best for? If you enjoy trying new drinks in friendly settings, want to learn more about craft beer, or just like the idea of pairing beer with cheese, you’ll probably find this both enjoyable and informative. It’s also a good way to meet fellow travelers or locals with similar interests, making it a social highlight if that’s your style.

Key Points

• Tasting of five craft beers provides a varied flavor experience.
• Expert guidance from knowledgeable, Cicerone-trained staff adds credibility.
• Paired cheese board enhances the tasting, helping soak up the alcohol.
• Affordable price point at just £25, offering good value for a guided tasting.
• Duration of 1.5 hours makes it a manageable activity within a busy London itinerary.
• Not suitable for children or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the London Beer School Experience

When you arrive at BrewDog Waterloo, you’ll find a friendly, informal setting perfect for beer lovers of all levels. The meeting point is straightforward — just check in at the host desk at the entrance. From there, you’ll be led to a cozy space where knowledgeable staff will guide you through the tasting.

The experience involves sampling five 1/3 pint pours of different craft beers. Each of these carefully selected brews is paired with a cheese board, designed to complement the flavors and balance the alcohol. The pairing isn’t just filler — it adds a layer of sophistication, letting you experience how beer and cheese can work together.

Craft Beer Tasting

The core of this experience is tasting. The beers are described as some of the favorites of the team, which suggests they’re chosen for quality and variety. Expect to explore a range of styles, perhaps from pale ales to darker stouts, although the specifics aren’t detailed. You’ll get to see firsthand what makes craft beer so diverse and interesting.

Guides are well-trained, and reviews suggest they are both knowledgeable and enthusiastic. They’re there to answer questions, explain brewing techniques, and help you understand each beer’s unique taste. Many reviewers mention that the staff’s insights elevate the experience, making it not just a tasting but an educational moment.

Cheese and Beer Pairing

The cheese board is shared between two guests, which encourages a communal vibe. The cheese selection is likely curated to pair well with the beers, providing an added flavor dimension. This pairing helps balance the sometimes strong or bitter notes of craft beers, making the tasting more palatable for newcomers.

Some reviews highlight that the cheese was delicious and paired perfectly with the beers, enhancing the overall enjoyment. This part of the experience makes it accessible even for those new to beer tasting or cheese pairing.

The Setting and Atmosphere

BrewDog Waterloo is known for a lively yet relaxed environment. The venue is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus. The group size tends to be small to medium, allowing for a more intimate and personal experience. The duration, at just 1.5 hours, means it’s easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing or other activities.

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Price and Value

At £25 per person, this experience provides a good value considering the guided nature, the quality of beers, and the cheese pairing. It’s a manageable expense for those interested in exploring craft beer without committing to a full brewery tour or a longer class.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind, this isn’t a full meal — just the cheese board is provided for sharing. Any additional drinks or food from the main menu are extra. If you’re looking for a full meal or more extensive tasting, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Reviewers often mention the knowledgeable staff as one of the highlights. One person said, “The staff was super friendly and knew their stuff,” which added a lot to the experience. Others appreciated the delicious cheese, noting that it “really complemented the beers perfectly.”

Some travelers mention that the experience is very casual, making it suitable even for those new to craft beer. However, a few pointed out that the session is relatively short, so if you’re looking for an in-depth brewing class, this might not be enough.

Additional Practical Details

• Meeting Point: Host desk in the entrance at BrewDog Waterloo.
• Duration: 1.5 hours, with available starting times (check availability).
• Languages: Guided in English.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible.
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women and those under 18.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• Reserve & Pay Later: You can book now and pay later, which makes planning easier during busy travel times.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is particularly appealing if you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone wanting to learn more about different styles without going on a lengthy tour. It’s also great for beginners who want a casual, guided introduction to beer tasting. If you’re traveling with a group of friends, a partner, or even solo, you’ll find the session welcoming and informative.

If you’re pregnant or with minors under 18, this isn’t the right fit — but if you’re looking for a fun, social activity that combines tasting and education, it’s a winner.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, this experience isn’t suitable for children under 18 due to the alcohol consumption involved.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some peace of mind for flexible planning.

Are the beers local or international?
The beers are described as favorites, likely craft brews appreciated locally — but specific styles or origins aren’t detailed.

Is the cheese shared or individual?
The cheese board is shared between two guests, making it a communal tasting experience.

How long does the session last?
The whole experience runs for about 1.5 hours, a manageable amount of time for most visitors.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just arrive ready to taste and learn. No prior experience is necessary; the guides are there to help you understand and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to taste some of London’s craft beers and learn a little about what makes each style unique, the London Beer School ticks many boxes. It offers good value, especially when you consider the guidance from knowledgeable staff and the pairing with quality cheese.

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy trying new drinks in friendly settings, whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned beer lover. It’s also a nice, low-pressure way to get a taste of London’s vibrant craft beer scene without committing to a longer tour or more intense class.

While it’s not a comprehensive beer education, it’s certainly a memorable, tasty stop that can be easily added to any London itinerary. Just remember, it’s a quick tasting, so if you’re after a deeper dive into brewing techniques or a full meal, you might want to look for other options. But for a straightforward, enjoyable, and educational tasting session, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: