London Beer Tour With Secret Food Tours

Exploring London’s Craft Beer Scene: A Closer Look at the Bermondsey Beer Tour with Secret Food Tours

If you’re thinking about a way to get off the beaten path and really experience London’s vibrant brewing culture, the London Beer Tour with Secret Food Tours might just be what you’re looking for. This tour, which has garnered a perfect 5.0 score from over 100 reviews, offers a laid-back yet insightful peek into Bermondsey’s lively pub scene and its brewing history. It’s a fantastic option for beer lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to combine a bit of local history with a fun tasting experience.

What really draws us in are two key elements: first, the opportunity to visit local pubs and breweries that you might not find on your own, and second, the knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights along the way. A possible downside? The tour is quite specific—it’s focused on beer and the Bermondsey area, which might mean less variety if you’re looking for a broader London experience. That said, it’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate look at craft beer culture with a side of local flavor.

This experience suits folks who enjoy a good drink, are willing to walk around for a few hours, and appreciate a guide who can tell you stories that bring the area’s history to life. If you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just curious about London’s brewing roots, this tour offers enough variety and storytelling to keep you engaged. It’s also a solid choice if you’re traveling with friends or a small group looking for a memorable afternoon.

Key Points

• Off the tourist trail: Explore Bermondsey, one of London’s most characterful neighborhoods.
• Local insights: Guides share stories about the area’s history and craft beer scene.
• Tastings included: Sample seven different types of beer, including seasonal, IPAs, and smoky stouts.
• Flexible group options: Choose between small group or private tours to suit your style.
• Convenient meeting points: Starts near Shad Thames and ends near London Bridge, accessible by public transport.
• Good value: For around $117, you get a well-paced, three-hour experience that combines culture, history, and beer.

Why You Might Love This Tour

We loved the way this tour balances education and tasting. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness—one reviewer called Luke “very knowledgeable and pleasant,” which makes a big difference when you’re learning about something as nuanced as craft beer. The chance to visit local pubs and breweries off the usual tourist routes makes it feel authentic and relaxed.

The beer selection is another highlight. With seven different types included, you’ll get a good variety—everything from seasonal brews to IPAs and smoky stouts. One traveler mentioned they enjoyed “a great time with a great host,” emphasizing both the quality of the beer and the engaging storytelling. If you’re someone who appreciates knowing what you’re drinking and the story behind it, this tour hits the mark.

The tour also offers some cheeky moments—like a visit to a secret venue—which adds a little element of surprise and exclusivity. It’s these small touches that elevate the experience from simply drinking beer to enjoying a curated cultural outing.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point: Shad Thames

Your tour kicks off near Starbucks at 49 Shad Thames, a lively area filled with restaurants, artisan coffee shops, and a good dose of London’s modern vibe. From here, your guide will lead you through Bermondsey—known for its craft beer scene and historic pubs.

Exploring Bermondsey

The neighborhood itself is a big part of the charm. It’s less touristy than central London spots, full of atmospheric pubs, old brewing sites, and local stories. You might find yourself walking past historic buildings with tales of London’s beer-making history, which your guide will likely share.

Visiting Pubs and Breweries

The tour takes you into several lively pubs and breweries, where you’ll get to sample 7 different types of beer. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding what makes each brew special. Whether it’s a seasonal beer, an IPA, or a smokey stout, you’ll learn how they are made and what makes them unique.

Secret Venue and Refreshments

One of the fun highlights is a cheeky drink in a secret venue—a spot that’s not on the regular tourist map. It’s a nice change from typical pub stops and adds a sense of exclusivity. Plus, a refreshment is included, giving you a little breather and a chance to socialize.

End of Tour: Bermondsey Street

The tour wraps up near Bermondsey Street, close to London Bridge Station. From here, you can easily continue exploring or head back to your accommodation. The group size is limited to 12, so you get a personalized experience without feeling crowded.

What Really Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised. One review notes that Luke “is very knowledgeable,” adding that they learned a lot about beer and the area’s history. The quality of the beer and the storytelling go hand in hand, making each stop educational and enjoyable.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, hotel drop-off, or transportation, its focus on beer tasting and local culture makes it a relaxed, no-pressure outing. It’s designed for those who want to learn and taste without the fuss of a large group or a rigid schedule.

Analyzing the Value

At $117.60 per person, the experience offers a good amount of value—seven different beers, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore an authentic neighborhood. Compared to typical London pub crawls, this feels more curated and educational, giving you meaningful context about the brewing culture rather than just hopping from pub to pub.

Practical Details

The tour is booked about 83 days in advance on average, suggesting it’s popular among visitors planning ahead. The duration is around three hours, which is just enough time to enjoy a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 18—so it’s suited for adults, not children. The meeting point is easy to access via public transportation, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) makes it low-risk if plans change.

Final Thoughts

The London Beer Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a genuine, fun way to get to know Bermondsey’s craft beer scene. It’s perfect for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or groups wanting a mix of cultural insight and casual tastings. The guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach makes the experience memorable without feeling overly scripted.

For those who value learning about local brewing traditions, enjoy tasting a variety of beers, and love discovering hidden corners of London, this tour hits the spot. It’s a relaxed, friendly way to spend a few hours, leaving you with new knowledge—and perhaps a few new favorite brews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beer beginners?
Yes, absolutely. The guide explains each beer and its background, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned drinker or new to craft beer.

How many beers will I taste?
You’ll sample 7 different types of beer, including seasonal, IPAs, and smoky stouts.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers the guide, all beer samples, and a cheeky drink at a secret venue, plus a refreshment.

Can I take kids or minors on this tour?
No, the minimum age is 18 years.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes, it’s a walking tour around Bermondsey and the South Bank. Be prepared for some light walking and standing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins near Starbucks at 49 Shad Thames and ends on Bermondsey Street, near London Bridge Station.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, you can choose a private tour to fit your preferences.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 83 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative way to explore London’s craft beer scene and learn about one of its most authentic neighborhoods, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a relaxed experience that combines history, culture, and great beer—perfect for making your trip memorable.