Hop, Clip, & Pump

Going Coco Loco Down in Erm Barrow Hill… the title alone doesn’t quite behave like a sensible beer review. It reads more like a fever dream, or the name of a pub crawl that got slightly out of hand somewhere between a railway museum and a late-night decision. And in a way, that is exactly where this beer belongs. Set against the industrial nostalgia of Barrow Hill Roundhouse during Rail Ale trade night, this is not a controlled tasting environment. This is exhaustion, cask ale, railway heritage, and the quiet, slightly chaotic pursuit of 'something dark and comforting' after a long shift at work. Into this setting steps  Coco Loco . From Grafton Brewing . The Setting: Rail Ale and Worn-In Glassware Barrow Hill Roundhouse is the kind of place that already feels halfway between history and theatre. Trains, steel, echoing architecture, and then, suddenly, casks of ale lined up like competing narratives. After a long shift, the intention is simple, find 'dark oblivion...

The summer months are one of the best times to visit the capital. As the weather warms up, London transforms into a vibrant hub of festivals, outdoor events, and cultural celebrations. Streets feel livelier, parks are busier, and there is always something happening just around the corner. If you are planning a trip in August, it is the perfect opportunity to explore the city, and perhaps experience one of its most iconic seasonal events. The Great British Beer Festival This August, beer lovers should look no further than the Great British Beer Festival , one of the UK’s largest and most celebrated beer events. Organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), the festival is a true showcase of malt, hops, and brewing craftsmanship. Running for four days from 7th August , it brings together some of the biggest names in the industry, including JD Wetherspoon, Greene King, Marston’s, Theakston’s, and Thwaites. Whether you are a casual drinker or a dedicated enthusiast, the scale and v...

At first glance, the term ' nano brewery'  might sound like something lifted from a low-budget sci-fi film or a cutting-edge physics lab. But in reality, it represents one of the most exciting developments in the modern craft beer scene. Nano breweries are the latest evolution in independent brewing, and they’re quietly positioning themselves as a force to be reckoned with. What Exactly Is a Nano Brewery? Simply put, nano breweries are extremely small-scale brewing operations,   often no more than an individual or small household brewing beer, sometimes quite literally in a garage. Technically, they sit below microbreweries in size. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) , a nano-scale operation may produce around 100–200 gallons per year , depending on household size. In other words, these are truly nano in both name and nature. But while they may be small in output, they are anything but small in ambition. Why Should You Care? Because nano ...

When people think of Scotland’s finest produce, malt whisky often comes to mind first. And rightly so, Scotland’s distilleries and selection of single malts are celebrated around the world. But a visit to the Trossachs Beer Festival might just persuade you that the country’s small breweries are producing treasures every bit as compelling as its whisky. Creative Scottish Brewing Scotland’s independent brewers are crafting real ales with a creativity that rivals the artistry of its distillers. Some of the most intriguing beers incorporate ingredients that evoke the Scottish landscape itself: heather, seaweed, or even porridge oats. These ingredients don’t just flavour the beer, they tell a story, connecting drinkers to the land, the traditions, and the communities that sustain these breweries. The Festival at the Lade Inn Few experiences rival sampling these brews while staying in a Scottish castle during a late summer trip to the Trossachs. The festival is hosted at the Lade Inn...

If you’re looking for a proper summer beer festival in Sheffield, The Rising Sun is once again hosting its much-loved Sunfest ,  a highlight of the local real ale calendar. Running from Thursday 9th to Sunday 12th July 2009 , this annual event brings together an impressive selection of drinks and live entertainment in a relaxed, welcoming setting. What to Expect 60+ real ales from across the UK A selection of ciders and bottled beers A lively atmosphere with plenty for both seasoned ale enthusiasts and casual visitors Whether you’re keen to explore new brews or simply enjoy a well-kept pint in good company, Sunfest offers plenty of choice. Live Music Line-Up The festival isn’t just about the beer, there’s a strong musical line-up across the weekend: Friday 10th July: Gentlemen of Jazz Saturday 11th July: Scuppered & The Loxley Silver Band Expect everything from smooth jazz to lively brass, adding to the festival atmosphere. Plan Your Visit 📍 Venue:...