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Full Mash Brewery: Passion, Craft, and Doing Things Right With Hoxton Bonnet

Tucked away in Stapleford, Nottingham, Full Mash Brewery is a small independent operation driven by a simple philosophy, a passion for real ale and a commitment to 'doing things right.'

Founded by brewer Karl Waring, the story begins back in 1994, when he first started brewing using an all-grain method known as the full mash process. When introduced as a brewer, Karl was often met with the question: 'What, full mash?' and from that repeated exchange, the name was born.

What started as The Full Mash Brewery eventually became simply Full Mash, but the ethos has remained unchanged.



From Homebrew to Commercial Success

The brewery’s journey from hobby to business is a classic example of grassroots British brewing.

Commercial production began in 2003, using the original homebrew kit and producing just one 9-gallon cask per brew. Demand quickly outgrew capacity, leading to a steady expansion:

  • A 1-barrel kit to keep up with orders
  • Growth into a 2-barrel brewery, brewing four times a week
  • The current 4-barrel setup, producing a wide range of ales

Today, Full Mash offers everything from a core range of beers to seasonal specials, one-off brews, and even a regular house ale, all while maintaining its small-scale, hands-on approach.

Hoxton Bonnet: A Standout Session Ale



Among Full Mash’s offerings, Hoxton Bonnet stands out as a particularly enjoyable and accessible ale.

At 4.2% ABV, it sits firmly in session territory, making it ideal for relaxed drinking without sacrificing flavour.

Tasting Notes

  • Appearance: Pale amber, classic 'beer-coloured' clarity
  • Body: Light with a slightly wheaty character
  • Flavour: Balanced with a gentle citrus twist
  • Finish: Mild bitterness, clean and refreshing

Neither overly sweet nor overly dry, Hoxton Bonnet strikes a pleasing middle ground. It’s an easy-drinking ale that quenches the thirst and keeps you coming back for another pint.

Already popular on draught and a regular feature at beer festivals, it is also set to be released as a bottle-conditioned ale, expanding its reach beyond the bar.

The Curious Case of the Hoxton Bonnet



The name itself raises an obvious question: 'What exactly is a Hoxton Bonnet?'

Alongside those 'very fetching spectacles,' the image conjures a playful, slightly eccentric piece of headwear. The Hoxton Bonnet refers to a style of quirky hat, often knitted, sometimes with ear flaps, tassels, or even pompoms.

The trend gained popularity in London, helped along by BBC Radio 6 personalities Mark Radcliffe and Stuart Maconie, and soon became a familiar sight in markets across the country.

It’s a fitting name for a beer that doesn’t take itself too seriously, distinctive, memorable, and a little bit unconventional.

A Brewery Rooted in Craft

Full Mash Brewery represents the enduring appeal of small-scale British brewing: a story of passion, persistence, and gradual growth.

From a single homebrew kit to a fully operational 4-barrel brewery, it has remained true to its origins, producing honest, well-crafted ales without compromise.

Final Thoughts

With beers like Hoxton Bonnet, Full Mash proves that you don’t need to be a large brewery to make a lasting impression.

Balancing tradition with personality, and quality with creativity, this Nottinghamshire brewery continues to embody what real ale is all about: flavour, character, and a genuine love of the craft.

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