Craft Beer Tour around Manchester

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking to add a fun, social experience to your Manchester trip, this Craft Beer Tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the enthusiastic reviews and detailed info paint a clear picture of what you can expect. It’s designed to introduce visitors to Manchester’s vibrant microbrewery scene through a relaxed, guided afternoon.

What really catches our eye are two standout features: the knowledgeable guide who makes the experience both informative and friendly, and the chance to try a wide variety of local beers without worrying about extra costs. Plus, the tour visits some of Manchester’s lesser-known spots, making it a great way to see a different side of the city. However, a key consideration is the limited variety in beer styles—mostly IPAs—so if you’re craving dark ales or other styles, you might find this a bit repetitive.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy beer, like making new friends, and want a manageable, well-organized way to explore Manchester’s craft scene. It’s perfect for a casual afternoon outing, whether you’re celebrating something special or just taking a break from sightseeing for a few hours.

Key Points

• All-inclusive sampling means you can taste a range of beers without extra costs.
• The guided experience offers insight into Manchester’s brewing culture and history.
• The tour’s small group size (up to 20 travelers) creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• It’s a convenient way to discover hidden breweries you might not visit on your own.
• The duration of around 3.5 hours makes it a manageable, fun afternoon activity.
• It’s well-reviewed for friendly guides and good beer selection, making it a popular choice booked well in advance.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point at Fell Northern Quarter

The tour kicks off at 1:30 pm in the vibrant Northern Quarter, specifically at 35 Dale St. This already sets the tone for a relaxed, city-centered experience. The Northern Quarter is known for its artsy vibe, street art, and independent bars—so even before the tasting begins, you’re in one of Manchester’s coolest neighborhoods.

First Stop: A Taste of Manchester

The first 40-minute stop gives you a chance to get acquainted with your guide and fellow travelers. From reviews, we know that Isla (the guide) is friendly, informative, and makes the experience engaging. She’s praised for sharing interesting facts and showing parts of Manchester you might not normally visit, which adds some local flavor beyond just drinking beers.

Multiple Brewery and Bar Visits

The tour then moves on to various Manchester-based breweries and craft beer bars. The idea is that you sample a variety of craft beers – all included in the tour price. Expect to try a good range of styles, although most reviews note an emphasis on IPAs. So, if you prefer dark stouts or lagers, be aware that the selection might lean more towards hoppier styles.

Final Stop at Sureshot Taproom

The last part of the tour brings you to Sureshot Taproom on Sheffield St, wrapping up around 4:00 pm. This final venue is likely a cozy spot where you can reflect on your favorites from the day or continue exploring on your own.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Expert Guide and Personal Touch

Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. Tina F. mentions Fred as a very approachable guy with a great grasp of beer facts and some history, making the experience both educational and fun. This personal touch makes a difference, especially if you’re new to craft beer or local brewing scenes.

Discovering Hidden Gems

Aside from the beers, many travelers appreciated the access to parts of Manchester they wouldn’t typically see alone. It’s a good way to combine sightseeing with tastings, especially if you’re short on time but want to get a feel for the city’s microbrewery culture.

Social, Small Group Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour feels intimate and social. According to reviews, this fosters a friendly environment where you can easily chat with guides and other beer lovers, making it more than just a tasting – it’s a small community experience.

The Value of the Tour: Price & Experience

At $61.97 per person, this tour offers good value given the all-inclusive tastings and guided insights. Considering that you’ll visit several spots and try a variety of beers, the price is quite reasonable for a 3.5-hour social outing. Tour bookings are typically made around 37 days in advance, indicating it’s a popular choice among visitors.

While some may wish for more beer style variety, the quality and local focus of the beers, coupled with the friendly guide, make this an engaging experience. The tour’s small group size and well-chosen venues mean you’re likely to get personal attention and genuine local flavor.

The Downsides: What to Keep in Mind

The main limitation is the beer style variety. Most beers tend to be IPAs, which might bore those craving darker or more traditional ales. Also, because it’s a guided tour, it’s not a flexible experience—you’ll need to stick to the schedule and destinations.

Plus, if you’re not a big drinker or have specific dietary restrictions, it’s worth noting that samples are included, but you might want to clarify if you have special needs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This craft beer tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy trying new beers, want an easy way to explore Manchester’s microbrewery scene, and like the idea of joining a small, social group. It’s great for those celebrating a special occasion or just looking to add a local, flavorful experience to their visit. If you’re a beer novice or a seasoned aficionado, you’ll likely find it enjoyable, especially given the knowledgeable guide and friendly atmosphere.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
The description doesn’t specify options for dietary restrictions, but since most beers are included, it might be best to check directly with the supplier if you have specific needs.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 1:30 pm and ending around 4:00 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Fell Northern Quarter, 35 Dale St, Manchester, and concludes at Sureshot Taproom on Sheffield St.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The tour seems geared toward adults who enjoy craft beer, so it’s best suited for those 18 and older. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers all beer samples at various breweries and bars, guided commentary, and the experience itself. No extra charges are mentioned.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, friendly introduction to Manchester’s craft beer scene, this tour fits the bill nicely. You’ll enjoy a variety of local brews, learn from a knowledgeable guide, and see parts of the city that aren’t always on the typical tourist map. While the beer options could be more diverse for some, the experience’s social aspect and quality are clear highlights.

Perfect for beer lovers, casual explorers, or anyone wanting a relaxed afternoon with like-minded folks, this tour offers a solid taste of Manchester’s brewing talent—both literally and figuratively. Just remember to book ahead, and you’ll be set for a memorable beer adventure.