Torrside Brewing

Torrside Brewing was established in 2015 by three experienced homebrewers, Chris, Nick and Peter, in the Derbyshire town of New Mills. The founders had spent years developing their brewing skills and exploring the increasingly diverse world of independent beer, drawing inspiration from emerging British breweries, American imports and traditional European styles. Their shared enthusiasm eventually developed into a commercial brewing venture based at New Mills Marina, close to the town's famous Swizzels sweet factory. The brewery takes its name from the Torrs, the dramatic gorge carved by the Rivers Goyt and Sett, where New Mills' historic industrial mills once stood.

From the beginning, Torrside adopted an unusually collaborative approach, with the three founders operating the brewery as a democratic partnership supported by their families. For much of its early history, brewing and business operations were carried out during evenings and weekends alongside other commitments. The team took responsibility for almost every aspect of production and presentation, including recipe development, brewing, packaging, bottling, branding and website management. Distinctive artwork by family member Emma Sidwell, known for her Ellia Designs work, became an important part of the brewery's visual identity, appearing on its labels and pump clips.

The brewery's philosophy is summed up by its distinctive motto, 'Hops. Smoke. Monsters.' Rather than concentrating on a narrow selection of conventional beer styles, Torrside developed a changing range reflecting the founders' enthusiasm for assertive hop flavours, smoked malts and powerful imperial beers. Its output includes balanced hop-forward ales, traditional and experimental smoked styles, strong beers and unusual flavour combinations. All beers are produced unfined, and the brewery operates a ten-barrel brewing plant, supplying pubs and specialist beer retailers primarily within approximately fifty miles of New Mills. This approach allows the team to follow its own interests while offering drinkers a constantly evolving selection.

Torrside has also developed a strong connection with its local community through seasonal brewery tap events at New Mills Marina. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy freshly brewed beers directly from the brewery, often accompanied by food from independent vendors. The brewery's annual Smokefest has become a distinctive celebration of its passion for smoked beer, bringing together enthusiasts of an often-overlooked brewing tradition. An onsite bottle shop provides another opportunity to purchase its beers for takeaway. Today, Torrside remains closely connected to its home in the High Peak, combining small-scale independent production, adventurous brewing and a hands-on approach to every aspect of the business.