East End Craft Brewery Tour

If you’re exploring London and have a taste for craft beer, this East End Craft Brewery Tour from AleHunters might just be what you’re after. While we haven’t personally taken it (yet), the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a genuine, engaging way to experience some of London’s best microbreweries. What really catches the eye are the personalized guide and small group size, which promise a friendly and intimate experience. Plus, the quality of breweries visited and the inclusion of expert commentary make it stand out among many pub crawl-style tours.

One thing we especially like about this tour is its focus on small, independent breweries—these are often the hidden gems in London’s thriving craft beer scene. The fact that it’s a 3 to 4-hour experience offers enough time to really explore without feeling rushed. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is mostly about beer tasting and education—if you’re not a fan of beer or are looking for a party-heavy experience, this might not be your ideal choice. It’s best suited for those who genuinely enjoy craft beers, want to learn more about brewing, or are eager to discover London’s up-and-coming beer scene in a relaxed, guided setting.

If you’re someone who appreciates local breweries, expert guides, and a curated experience, this tour offers a nice blend of all three. It’s especially good for travelers who like small groups and personal attention, and for those who prefer quality over quantity in their craft beer adventures. Let’s take a detailed look at what this tour involves and why it could be a memorable part of your London trip.

Key Points

• Personalized Guided Experience: Led by a knowledgeable guide, making it interactive and friendly.
• Curated Brewery Visits: Four carefully selected taprooms showcasing London’s small-scale craft scene.
• Educational & Tasting Focus: Learn about brewing techniques and history while sampling beers.
• Small Group Size: Up to 14 participants, ensuring a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.
• Flexible and Extendable: The tour can continue to other venues based on guest interest.
• Great Value for Money: At around $67.49, you get a well-rounded experience with plenty of insights.

An Honest Look at the East End Craft Brewery Tour

London’s craft beer scene is one of the most vibrant in the world, with over 130 breweries operating within the city. This tour offers a window into that scene, specifically focusing on the east side—an area packed with innovative microbreweries and taprooms tucked away in unique locations. The starter point is The Five Points Brewery in Bethnal Green, a well-respected venue that sets the tone for the evening. From there, the tour moves through three other fantastic breweries, finishing at Deviant & Dandy Brewery.

The Itinerary — What You Can Expect

First stop: The Five Points Brewery & Courtyard
This brewery is a great introduction. It’s a lively spot with a spacious courtyard, perfect for soaking in the city’s modern brewing vibe. Here, your group gets to enjoy a half pint or 2/3 of a beer or soft drink included in the tour price. The setting is relaxed, and the brewery’s reputation for quality beer makes it a promising first impression. Visitors often mention their appreciation for the casual, friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn about the brewery’s approach.

Second stop: Forest Road Brewing Co.
This taproom is another highlight, offering a similar tasting experience with a focus on fresh brews. Again, a half pint or 2/3 of a beer or soft drink is included, which keeps the taste buds excited without overdoing it. What makes this venue special is its emphasis on craftsmanship and local flavor, giving you a good sense of the area’s brewing identity. Reviewers note that the guide’s commentary added a layer of insight that enhanced the tasting.

Third stop: Hackney Church Brew
This brewpub brings a slightly different vibe, often with a more historic or aesthetically interesting setting. The guide’s knowledge shines here, as many reviews mention being educated on beer making and history, which turns a simple tasting into a learning experience. The 45-minute stops at each venue feel just right—enough to explore, chat, and savor without fatigue.

Final stop: Deviant & Dandy Brewery
Founded in 2017, Deviant & Dandy is known for its range of lagers, pales, and sours. Sitting in an old courtyard, the brewery has a cool, relaxed atmosphere. This is often where guests linger, perhaps extending the evening with other venues if they choose. Again, the included half pint/2/3 of a beer or soft drink keeps the tasting flowing.

The Group Dynamic & Guide Expertise

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the group size keeps the experience intimate. Many reviews praise the guide, Paul, for his wealth of knowledge, friendly attitude, and engaging storytelling. From sharing brewing facts to explaining beer styles, he turns what could be a simple pub crawl into an educational tour. Guests consistently mention how much they appreciated his enthusiasm and professionalism.

The tour is structured for casual enjoyment but packed with interesting facts—some reviews highlight that even seasoned beer lovers learned new things about beer tops, brewing techniques, and local history. The guide’s ability to keep the group entertained and informed is repeatedly mentioned as a key strength.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour starts at 6:00 pm, a good time to kick off after the day’s sightseeing or work. Meeting in Bethnal Green, it’s near public transportation, making it easy to access from anywhere in London. The tour’s cost of $67.49 per person offers good value considering the number of breweries visited and the expert guidance. The inclusion of sample beers and soft drinks at each stop provides a tasting experience that feels generous without overindulgence. Plus, the option to extend the evening to other venues keeps flexibility in play.

What the Reviews Say

The overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests this tour isn’t just about the beers—it’s about the experience, the learning, and the company. One reviewer mentioned, “Learnt new facts about brewing history, technique, variety — and even an explanation of beer tops,” which shows how the guide’s knowledge elevates the experience. Several reviewers describe it as “thoroughly enjoyable” and “worth it,” with comments emphasizing the friendly company and expert analysis.

Guests also appreciate the personalized attention—a common theme in reviews praising Paul for being “an excellent guide, teacher, and entertainer.” The moderate group size keeps the atmosphere convivial, and many mention they’d happily do another tour or recommend it to friends.

Downsides?

A few reviews hint that if you’re not a big craft beer fan, this tour might feel a bit niche. Also, since it’s focused on small breweries, the experience might not appeal if you prefer big-name beers or a party scene. But for those genuinely interested in craft beer education and tasting, it hits the mark.

The Value Proposition

At just over $67, you’re getting a curated experience that combines tasting, learning, and local discovery. Compared to other tours, especially in a city as busy as London, this offers a relaxed pace with personalized guidance. The four brewery stops give a good variety—each with its own vibe and beer style—and the inclusion of soft drinks ensures moderation and comfort.

You’re not just paying for the beers; you’re paying for insights into the brewing process, the history of London’s beer scene, and the chance to chat with a passionate expert. It’s a solid choice for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to explore London’s microbrewery culture without the hassle of planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous drinkers, curiosity-driven travelers, and craft beer fans who appreciate a more educational and relaxed experience. It’s great for small groups, couples, or friends who want to explore London’s east side with a knowledgeable guide. If you’re after a lively, party-heavy night, this might not be the right pick, but if you love learning about beer and trying different styles, it’s a winner.

It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy small, local breweries over large commercial ones—you’re getting a taste of London’s independent brewing culture. Plus, with the option to continue exploring afterward, you can tailor the evening to your mood.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is designed for adults interested in craft beer. While service animals are allowed, children are generally not the target audience, as the focus is on beer tasting and education.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, allowing enough time to visit four breweries comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
You get guided visits to four breweries, with a half pint or 2/3 of a beer or soft drink at each venue. The price covers both the guide’s expertise and the tastings.

Can the tour be extended or continued elsewhere?
Yes, the tour can often carry on to other venues if guests wish—giving you the flexibility to keep the evening going.

How many people participate in the tour?
A maximum of 14 travelers ensures a friendly, personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the start point in Bethnal Green is near public transit, making it easy to get there from anywhere in London.

What is the price, and is it good value?
At $67.49 per person, considering four brewery visits, expert guidance, and tasting opportunities, it’s a fair deal for a curated craft beer experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates craft beer and wants to explore London’s east side with a guide who knows his stuff, this tour offers a rewarding mix of tasting, learning, and local discovery. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make it a comfortable and engaging way to spend an evening. It’s particularly suited for those eager to understand the nuances of brewing and support small, independent breweries.

While it’s not a wild nightlife adventure or a party scene, the tour’s focus on education, quality, and personal attention makes it ideal for beer lovers and curious travelers who want a more meaningful experience. Plus, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for London’s vibrant craft beer scene—and maybe some new favorites.

Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or a local looking to uncover hidden gems, this tour might just be a highlight of your trip.