Arkell's Brewery Stratton
Discover over 180 years of brewing heritage at Arkell's Brewery Stratton, with engaging tours and a taste of traditional ales.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tours are often available
Arkell's Brewery Stratton
Best Time
Tours are often available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover over 180 years of brewing heritage at Arkell's Brewery Stratton, with engaging tours and a taste of traditional ales.
"One of the most interesting brewery tours we've been on, highly recommended!"
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Ensure your spot by booking brewery tours in advance, especially for specific times.
🧥 Dress Warmly
Historic brewery buildings can be cold; wear layers or thermals for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Brewery Tour
Arkell's Brewery Stratton
Explore 180+ years of brewing history with knowledgeable guides and see traditional machinery in action.
Beer Tasting Experience
Brewery Tour End
Sample a selection of Arkell's excellent beers after your tour, a highlight for many visitors.
Grape & Grain Warehouse
Off-license shop
Discover a well-stocked shop with a wide selection of wines, spirits, and of course, Arkell's beers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Brewery Tour in Advance
Dress for the Brewery Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Ensure your spot by booking brewery tours in advance, especially for specific times.
🧥 Dress Warmly
Historic brewery buildings can be cold; wear layers or thermals for comfort.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring the brewery, so comfy footwear is key.
🛒 Visit the Grape & Grain
Don't miss the well-stocked off-license for beers, wines, and spirits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Ensure your spot by booking brewery tours in advance, especially for specific times.
🧥 Dress Warmly
Historic brewery buildings can be cold; wear layers or thermals for comfort.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be on your feet exploring the brewery, so comfy footwear is key.
🛒 Visit the Grape & Grain
Don't miss the well-stocked off-license for beers, wines, and spirits.
🎶 Live Music Potential
While not always scheduled, some locations offer live music; check ahead!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Arkell's Brewery Stratton for its engaging and informative tours led by knowledgeable guides. The historical aspect of the brewery, combined with the opportunity to taste excellent beers and explore the well-stocked shop, makes for a highly recommended experience. Some note that the brewery can be quite cold, so dressing warmly is advised.
"A great afternoon's brewery tour at Arkell's in Swindon. Phil was an engaging guide; forty years of experience enabled him to outline the 180+ years history of the company and explain the brewing processes as we progressed around the historic buildings. We saw the machinery - much of which is still in daily use. And of course a chance to sample some of their excellent beers and then buy some bottles. There is also a wide selection of wines and spirits in the Grape & Grain warehouse 'off license' - which I now know is open to the public, so we can call in when necessary."
Don Cain
"Enjoyed a great brewery tour, the guide was both informative and fun, the whole tour was fascinating, would highly recommend it,"
Ben Topsom
"Amazing tour of the brewery with Phil. A behind the scenes glimpse of the brewery in action, really knowledgeable guide who could answer any question. Obviously brilliant tasters at the end too. Wednesday afternoons for the rest of 2023, get in there before they stop doing tours again! Can’t recommend highly enough."
Brett Jouny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Arkell's Brewery is located in Stratton, Swindon. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. Many visitors mention it as part of a day trip around the Swindon area.
Yes, parking is generally available for visitors to the brewery and the Grape & Grain shop. It's advisable to check for any specific parking instructions when booking your tour.
You can visit the Grape & Grain warehouse shop without a tour to purchase beers, wines, and spirits. However, to see the brewing process and historic buildings, a guided tour is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing for the brewery tours can vary. It's best to check the official Arkell's Brewery website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on tour costs and booking.
Tours have historically been offered on Wednesday afternoons, but availability can change. It's crucial to check the Arkell's Brewery website or call ahead to confirm tour schedules and book your tickets.
Yes, booking your brewery tour in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot, as tours can be popular and have limited capacity.
The tour typically includes a guided walk through the historic brewery, explanations of the brewing process, a look at the machinery, and a tasting of their beers at the end.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors highlight the engaging and knowledgeable guides, the fascinating history of the brewery, and the enjoyable beer tasting session at the end of the tour.
While the brewery tour itself might be more geared towards adults due to the historical and technical aspects, children can accompany adults. The Grape & Grain shop is also accessible.
Absolutely! The Grape & Grain warehouse shop is an 'off license' open to the public, offering a wide selection of Arkell's beers, as well as wines and spirits.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the historic nature of the buildings, it can get chilly inside, so wearing layers or bringing a warm jacket is advised.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Arkell's Brewery is primarily a brewing facility with a shop, some locations associated with breweries may have nearby eateries or pubs. It's best to check if there are dining options on-site or in the immediate vicinity.
Yes, the brewery tour concludes with a beer tasting session. Additionally, the Grape & Grain shop allows you to purchase a variety of Arkell's beers to take home.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is permitted during brewery tours, allowing you to capture the historic machinery and brewing process. However, it's always good practice to ask your guide if there are any specific areas where photos are restricted.
The historic brewing equipment, the traditional architecture of the buildings, and the Grape & Grain shop's displays offer great photo opportunities. The overall atmosphere of a working, historic brewery is very photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the Grape & Grain shop as a more accessible part of the visit for families. It's a great place to pick up local produce and souvenirs. If visiting with children, ensure they are supervised closely, especially around operational machinery.
🍺 Beer Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore the Grape & Grain warehouse shop. It's an excellent place to discover and purchase a wide range of Arkell's beers, including seasonal specials and core range favorites, allowing you to continue your tasting experience at home.
🏛️ History Buffs
Guides often share compelling stories about the brewery's past and its role in the local community. The architecture of the buildings themselves tells a story. Visiting Arkell's provides a unique opportunity to connect with a tangible piece of heritage that is still very much alive and operational.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arkell's Brewing Legacy
During the tours, guides like Phil and Alex are frequently praised for their extensive knowledge, sharing insights into the company's evolution and the intricacies of brewing. They highlight how Arkell's has adapted while staying true to its roots, using much of the original machinery that is still in daily use. This blend of the old and new is a key part of the brewery's charm and a major draw for visitors interested in industrial heritage.
The brewery's commitment to its local community is also evident. While the tours focus on the brewing process, the presence of the Grape & Grain shop, selling not just their beers but also wines and spirits, underscores their role as a local supplier. This connection to the community is something many visitors appreciate, making the experience feel more authentic and grounded.
Experiencing the Brewery Tour
The tour takes visitors behind the scenes, showcasing the machinery that has been in operation for years. This provides a tangible connection to the brewery's long history and its dedication to traditional brewing techniques. The immersive experience allows guests to see firsthand how Arkell's beers are crafted, from the raw ingredients to the final product.
A significant part of the tour experience is the beer tasting at the end. Visitors have the opportunity to sample a range of Arkell's brews, often discovering new favorites. This tasting session is a perfect way to cap off the educational and historical journey, allowing guests to appreciate the fruits of the brewery's labor. The shop also offers a chance to purchase these excellent beers, along with wines and spirits, to enjoy at home.
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