Loweswater Brewery

The Loweswater Brewery was established at the Kirkstile Inn in the Summer of 2003 by Head Brewer Matt Webster.  

Brewery

The brewery is situated in an outbuilding, formerly part of a byre using a two and a half barrel plant (a barrel is 36 gallons in the trade) Brewing is carried on in a traditional way using only the finest whole English hops and malts. Every care is taken in the production of the beers. The brewery overlooks Park beck towards Mellbreak behind. The equipment was obtained from the Tirrel Brewery who have now increased their capacity. Our thanks go to Chris Tomlinson for his support. In 2004 an additional fermenter was purchased to allow weekly production of 5 barrels per week.

History of Brewing at Loweswater

Brewing at Kirkstile revives a tradition that was carried on here 180 years ago probably from Tudor times when Kirkstile was owned by St Bees Priory. The last licensees to carry on the tradition we believe were John Bank and his wife Nelly. John Bank’s photo is in the bar and right.

It is likely that brewing was carried out in the dairy building on the left as you approach the main entrance to the bar and close to the well. Beer would have been kept in the ancient cellar under the reception room which is accessed via a stone staircase. Barley was grown locally and is turned into the main ingredient - malt – they probably sourced the malt from Jennings who were maltsters in Lorton at the time.

Beers

Melbreak Bitter (named after the mountain and deliberately spelt in the old fashioned way) is a light coloured, hoppy and refreshing bitter brewed to around 3.7%. Melbreak sold out in the first few weeks of production to wide acclaim and has featured in several beer festivals. It was voted the top beer at the Whitehaven beer festival and was the first to sell out at the Westmorland beer festival.

Grasmoor Dark Ale is a 4.3% complex but well balanced dark ruby ale with a roasted malt flavour which has proved very popular since it went on sale on Boxing Day 2003. Winner of the Keswick beer festival 2005.

Rannerdale is brew using a combination of hops including Styrian Goldings. Brewed to 4% it has plenty of body, a golden colour and a hoppy citrus flavour.

Kirkstile Gold - first brewed in December 2005 and voted one of the top 3 beers in the Carlisle Beer Festival (also first to sell out). Made with lager malt and German hops this is a genuine golden beer that is truly refreshing. With flavours of mango, grapefruit and banana - lager drinkers you'll love it.  

Only available at the Kirkstile Inn

Brewery News 

Accommodation

Family Suite

Meals

Tariff