Beartown Brewery

Beartown Brewery was founded in 1994 by Ian Burns in Congleton, Cheshire, a town affectionately known as Beartown. Its origins were humble, beginning with Burns experimenting with homebrewing and sharing his creations with neighbours in an informal garage pub. Encouraged by their enthusiasm, he decided to establish a commercial brewery at a time when Britain's brewing industry was dominated by much larger producers. Beartown developed a reputation for traditional ales and a determination to champion independent brewing, becoming closely associated with the town whose distinctive nickname inspired its identity.

An important chapter in Beartown's development came through its relationship with the Manning family, who operated the White Lion pub in Congleton. After establishing their own small brewing operation, the Mannings began contract brewing with Beartown, allowing them to produce considerably larger batches. The two businesses eventually joined forces, combining their brewing experience, local connections and ambitions. Over the following decades, Beartown developed a range of traditional and contemporary beers, while its flagship Inception became an important symbol of the brewery's evolving identity. Throughout this growth, the business maintained its connection with Congleton's pubs, people and independent beer culture.

The brewery entered a new period of development following the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Support from the local community helped reinforce its ambitions, leading to a substantial refurbishment and modernisation of its Congleton brewery in 2022. Between 2023 and 2026, Beartown expanded further with three additional 70-hectolitre fermentation vessels and six new team members. Its keg beer production grew significantly, accounting for approximately half of total output. By 2026, the brewery reported producing more than two million pints annually and supplying over 600 outlets across the North West and Midlands, making it one of Cheshire's largest independent breweries.

Today, Beartown combines its brewing ambitions with a strong commitment to the community and environment. It prioritises British barley, UK maltsters and locally sourced ingredients wherever practical, while sending spent grain to nearby farms and favouring reusable or recyclable packaging. The brewery also supports organisations including Animals Asia, Congleton Rugby Union Football Club and the town's Jazz and Blues Festival. Its onsite taproom, The Den, provides a welcoming space overlooking the working brewery, hosting events such as Oktobearfest and seasonal celebrations. Guided brewery tours and tastings give visitors an opportunity to discover Beartown's history and brewing process, reinforcing its belief that great beer should bring people together.