Discovering Exeter’s Thriving Craft Beer Landscape
Ah, Exeter! A city steeped in history, with its magnificent cathedral, Roman walls, and charming medieval streets. But beyond the ancient stones and winding lanes, a vibrant, modern pulse beats within its pubs and bars – the craft beer scene. As a local who’s navigated these streets, tasted countless pints, and chatted with brewers, I’m thrilled to guide you through the very best of what Exeter has to offer the discerning beer lover. Whether you’re a seasoned ale aficionado or just dipping your toes into the world of craft brews, Exeter promises a delightful journey for your palate.
The beauty of Exeter’s craft beer scene lies in its blend of traditional pubs that have embraced modern brewing and newer establishments dedicated entirely to the cause. You’ll find everything from classic cask ales brewed with local ingredients to innovative IPAs, sours, and stouts that push the boundaries. So, grab your favourite beer-loving companion, and let’s explore the liquid gold that flows through this West Country gem.
The Must-Visit Pubs and Bars for Craft Beer Enthusiasts
When it comes to finding quality craft beer in Exeter, you’re spoiled for choice. Here are some of my top recommendations, places where you’re guaranteed a great pint and a welcoming atmosphere:
1. The Fat Pig (Town Centre & Pig On The Hill)
Let’s start with a true institution. The Fat Pig, located conveniently in the city centre (36-37 St Stephen Street, Exeter EX1 1QH), has long been a champion of quality beer. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation. They consistently offer a fantastic range of local and regional cask ales, often featuring breweries you won’t find anywhere else in the city. Their commitment extends to a well-curated selection of craft keg beers too, ensuring variety for everyone. What I love about The Fat Pig is its unpretentious vibe – it’s a pub for everyone, where you can enjoy a superb pint without any fuss. They also have a fantastic outdoor space, perfect for those warmer days.
Don’t miss their food menu; it’s hearty and pairs perfectly with a good beer. They often have tasting paddles available, which is an excellent way to sample a few different brews without committing to a full pint of each. Keep an eye on their social media for special tasting events and brewery spotlights. They also have a sister pub, The Pig On The Hill (25 Old Mill Rd, Mannamead, Exeter EX2 6RW), which offers a similar commitment to quality drinks and food in a slightly different, more suburban setting.
2. The Chevalier (City Centre)
Nestled in the heart of the city, The Chevalier Inn (84 Fore St, Exeter EX4 3HR) is another pub that consistently punches above its weight in terms of its beer selection. It’s a cosy, traditional pub with a fantastic beer garden, but what truly sets it apart is its dedication to offering an impressive array of craft beers on tap and in bottles. You’ll find a rotating selection of guest ales, often from smaller, independent breweries, alongside some more established craft favourites. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, always happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for an afternoon with a good book and a perfect pint.
3. The Hop & Vine (City Centre)
For those who appreciate a slightly more modern and relaxed vibe, The Hop & Vine (15 Queen St, Exeter EX4 3BG) is a gem. This place focuses on craft beer and wine, offering a curated selection that’s both approachable and exciting. They have a great range of craft keg beers on tap, featuring a mix of popular national and international breweries, as well as some interesting local finds. The atmosphere is typically buzzy and friendly, making it a popular spot for after-work drinks or a casual catch-up with friends. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their offerings, and they often have special deals or events that are worth checking out.
4. The Exeter Brewery Tap (Marsh Barton)
If you want to go straight to the source, then a visit to The Exeter Brewery Tap (Exeter Brewery, Unit 6 Marsh Barton Rd, Marsh Barton, Exeter EX2 8LW) is an absolute must. This is the taproom for The Exeter Brewery, a local favourite known for its quality ales. The taproom offers a direct connection to the freshest brews, often pouring beers straight from the tank. It’s a more industrial, no-frills setting, but that’s part of its charm. You get to experience the true essence of a working brewery. They usually have a great selection of their own core range alongside seasonal specials and experimental brews. Check their opening hours as they can vary, but it’s well worth the trip to Marsh Barton for any serious craft beer enthusiast.
5. The Old Fire House (City Centre)
Known affectionately as ‘The Fire House,’ this iconic Exeter pub (86 Gandy Street, Exeter EX4 3LS) has been a student favourite for years, but its appeal extends far beyond. While famous for its delicious pizzas, The Old Fire House also boasts a surprisingly excellent selection of craft beers, particularly cask ales. They champion local breweries and often have interesting guest beers on tap. The atmosphere is always lively, especially during term time, and the quirky interior adds to its unique charm. It’s a great place to combine a tasty meal with a fantastic pint.
6. The Globe Inn (City Centre)
Another pub with a strong reputation for its beer is The Globe Inn (28 Waterbeer St, Exeter EX4 3DG). It’s a smaller, more intimate pub with a loyal following, and for good reason. They focus on quality over quantity, offering a carefully selected range of real ales and craft beers. It’s a fantastic spot to discover lesser-known breweries and enjoy a pint in a relaxed, traditional setting. The staff are passionate about beer and can often share interesting stories about the breweries they feature.
Beyond the Pubs: Craft Beer Shops and Bottle Bars
While pubs are the traditional heartland of beer appreciation, Exeter also offers dedicated spaces for buying craft beer to enjoy at home or in a bottle-bar setting. This is where you can truly explore the vast world of craft brewing, from local gems to international heavyweights.
1. Virtual Bottle Shops and Online Retailers
For those who love to explore the widest possible range of craft beers, the internet is your best friend. Websites like Dropt.beer offer an incredible selection of craft beers from breweries across the UK and beyond. You can discover new releases, explore different styles, and have them delivered directly to your door. This is a fantastic way to sample beers that might not make it to Exeter’s tap lists, allowing you to curate your own tasting sessions at home. The convenience and variety offered by online retailers like Dropt.beer are unparalleled for the dedicated craft beer lover. They also have a great blog section with insights and news that can help you discover new breweries and styles.
2. Local Independent Shops
Keep an eye out for smaller independent off-licences that sometimes pop up in and around Exeter. While not as common as dedicated craft beer bars in larger cities, these shops can be treasure troves for unique bottles and cans. They often stock a carefully chosen selection of local and national craft brews. Chatting with the owners can often lead to some fantastic recommendations.
Brewery Spotlight: Local Producers to Watch
Exeter and its surrounding areas boast some fantastic breweries that are consistently producing high-quality beer. Supporting these local producers is a cornerstone of the craft beer scene here.
- The Exeter Brewery: As mentioned, this is a staple in Exeter. Their commitment to traditional brewing methods combined with a willingness to experiment makes them a standout. Look out for their ‘Ales of the Here’ range, which often features seasonal specials.
- Exton Park Brewery (near Exeter): While a short drive from the city, Exton Park Brewery is worth mentioning for its dedication to organic and sustainable brewing practices. They produce a range of delicious beers that reflect their commitment to quality and the environment.
- Other West Country Breweries: Don’t limit yourself to just Exeter-based breweries. Many fantastic breweries in Devon and Cornwall supply Exeter’s pubs. Keep an eye out for names like Powderkeg, Lost and Grounded, and Utopian, among many others.
Insider Tips for Exploring Exeter’s Craft Beer Scene
As a local, I’ve picked up a few tricks that can enhance your craft beer exploration in Exeter:
- Check Brewery Websites and Social Media: Most pubs and breweries are very active on social media. Follow them to stay updated on new beer releases, tap takeovers, and special events. This is often the best way to know what’s new and exciting.
- Embrace Cask Ale: While craft keg beers are fantastic, don’t forget the rich tradition of cask ale in the West Country. Exeter’s pubs often excel at serving perfectly conditioned cask ales. Ask about local breweries; you might discover a new favourite.
- Talk to the Bartenders: The staff in Exeter’s craft beer-focused pubs are usually incredibly passionate and knowledgeable. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Tell them what you like – whether it’s a hoppy IPA, a dark stout, or a fruity sour – and they’ll point you in the right direction.
- Explore Beyond the Centre: While the city centre has a great concentration of pubs, venture out to areas like Marsh Barton for brewery taps or Mannamead for places like The Pig On The Hill. You’ll often find hidden gems.
- Visit During Local Events: Exeter hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. If you’re lucky enough to visit during one, you’ll often find special beer offerings or brewery pop-ups.
- Utilise Online Resources: For an even wider selection, explore online craft beer retailers. Websites like Dropt.beer are invaluable for discovering new beers and breweries, especially if you want to try something that isn’t readily available on tap in Exeter. Their shop Dropt.beer/shop/ has an extensive range, and their blog dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/ is full of useful information for beer enthusiasts.
The Verdict: A Pint Worth Exploring
Exeter might be known for its history, but its craft beer scene is undeniably in the present, and it’s only getting better. From cosy traditional pubs serving the finest cask ales to modern bars showcasing innovative brews, there’s a pint here for every taste and occasion. The local breweries are producing exceptional beer, and the city’s pubs are dedicated to serving it with passion and knowledge.
So, whether you’re a resident looking to deepen your appreciation for local brews or a visitor wanting to experience a different side of Exeter, I encourage you to dive in. Explore these pubs, discover these breweries, and most importantly, enjoy the incredible craft beer that this historic city has to offer. Cheers!
