Craft beer in Tunbridge Wells The Ultimate Bold and Hoppy Guide

Looking for the best craft beer in Tunbridge Wells? Whether you’re a hop head, a dark ale devotee, or you’ve just dipped your toes into the world of craft beer for the very first time, our town is guaranteed to have something to quench your thirst.

Over the last couple of decades, Tunbridge Wells has become a quiet haven for those of us who appreciate quality beer, with a growing number of pubs and bars serving everything from juicy IPAs to rich stouts.

Tunbridge Wells is also home to Fonthill Brewing Co, our small-batch brewery based inside The George’s old stables. Brewing just ten firkins at a time using Kentish hops, local ingredients, and traditional handcrafted methods, we supply our own pubs with fresh cask and keg. 

It’s part of what makes the Tunbridge Wells craft beer scene feel so local, so personal, and so worth exploring.

If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about craft beer in Tunbridge Wells, from the basics of what counts as “craft,” to all the best places where you can sip something special.

What is Craft Beer?

Craft beer is brewed by small, independent producers who prioritise quality, flavour, and creativity. Unlike mass-produced beers, craft brewers are open to experimenting with bold styles and imaginative ingredients, all while sticking with time-honoured brewing traditions.

Want to dig a little deeper? Check out our guide: What is craft beer?

Ales, Lagers, IPAs & More: What’s the Difference?

One of the first things you may have noticed on a craft beer menu is the incredible variety. But what does it all mean? Luckily, we’ve got guides to answer all your questions!

Ale vs Lager 

The two broad categories of beer, defined by yeast and fermentation method. Read our guide to learn more: Ale vs Lager (What’s the difference?)

IPA (India Pale Ale)

Hoppy, often fruity, and incredibly popular. You’ll see loads of variations! Luckily, our guide walks you through all the weird and wonderful types of IPA: What is IPA beer?

Dark vs Light Beers

Chocolatey stouts vs light pilsners — what’s the difference?  Read out guides to find out!

What is dark beer? | What is light beer?

Is Beer Vegan?

(And Other Common Questions)

All the beers brewed at Fonthill Brewing Co are vegan, but not all beers are! Traditional fining agents like isinglass (made from fish bladders!) are still used in some brewing processes.

Curious about the details? Read more here: Is beer vegan?

Are There Local Craft Breweries in Tunbridge Wells?

Yes!

We brew our beer right here in Tunbridge Wells, just behind The George in the old stables. At Fonthill Brewing Co, we focus on small-batch quality — brewing just ten firkins (that’s 720 pints) at a time, using local ingredients, including hops grown right here in Kent.

Our line-up changes with the seasons. Look out for our annual green hop beer — fleeting, but magical — it offers a fresh taste of the harvest. When the nights draw in, we fire up the brewery for fresh batches of Where’s Me Jumper (because, let’s face it, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without porter!)

That said, no matter the season, you’ll always find a mix of bold pales, smooth bitters, and the occasional rich, dark number pouring fresh from the taps across all of our pubs.

Of course, we’re not the only ones flying the flag for local brewing. Just up the road, Pig & Porter have built a loyal following with their distinctive, full-flavoured beers — well worth a try if you spot them on tap!

Where Are the Best Places Drink Craft Beer in Tunbridge Wells

The George – Home to Fonthill Brewing Co. Grab a pint in the pub or enjoy the sunshine in our patio or pub garden in Tunbridge Wells. 

The Sussex Arms – Despite being, in many ways, a much loved, old school boozer, the Sussex has a number of guest lines to compete with specialist beer cafes and micropubs.

The Ragged Trousers – For a delicious lunch and a great pint, head to the Ragged. You’ll find an extensive line-up of rotating guest taps, craft beers, and familiar favourites – all best enjoyed outside in a sunny spot on The Pantiles.

Craft Beer FAQs

Did We Miss Something?

From expertly brewed IPAs to one-off experimental stouts, Tunbridge Wells is a town that takes its beer seriously (but not too seriously). Whether you’re looking for a craft beer garden where you can catch up with friends, or you’re on a hunt to discover the best beer in the land, there’s always something new to try.

Explore our full series of beer guides

• What is craft beer?
• What is IPA beer?
• Ale vs Lager: What’s the Difference?
• Is Beer Vegan?
• What is Dark Beer?
• What is Light Beer?
• How Many Pints in a Keg?