Greene King Brewery Tour: A Historic Brewing Experience in Bury St Edmunds
Welcome to our "Things to Do" guide! For those searching for unique Bury St Edmunds attractions and engaging things to do in Suffolk, the Greene King Brewery Tour is a fantastic choice. Located in the heart of Bury St Edmunds, this iconic brewery, established in 1799, offers an immersive journey into over 200 years of brewing heritage. Perfect for beer enthusiasts, history buffs, and visitors looking for a memorable day out in Suffolk, the tour combines fascinating insights, traditional brewing methods, and tastings of renowned ales. Just a short drive from our unique glamping site—featuring four pods, two lodges, and a charming hobbit house—the Greene King Brewery is a must-visit for a taste of Suffolk’s rich culture.
History of Greene King Brewery
Greene King has been brewing quality cask ales at the Westgate Brewery in Bury St Edmunds for over 200 years, with brewing on the site traceable to the Domesday Book in 1086, when monks used chalk wells to craft ale. Founded by Benjamin Greene in 1799, the brewery merged with Frederick William King’s business in 1887, forming Greene King. Its Victorian brewhouse, built in 1938, still uses gravity-fed methods and original equipment, drawing water from 1,000-year-old chalk wells. Famous for beers like Greene King IPA, Abbot Ale, and Old Speckled Hen, the brewery also operates a microbrewery (opened 2013) for experimental craft brews. Note: The brewery is set to relocate to Suffolk Park by 2027, so visit the historic Westgate site while it’s still operational!
Explore the Brewery Tours
Greene King offers two engaging tours, each lasting approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, catering to different interests and accessibility needs:
Brewery Tour: Enter the 1930s tower brewery, climb over 100 steep stairs (flat, enclosed shoes required; no walking aids) for panoramic views of Bury St Edmunds, and learn about the brewing process using natural ingredients and traditional methods. End with a tutored tasting of Greene King and Belhaven beers, plus a free bottle or pint to take home.
Walk, Talk, and Tasting Tour: Ideal for those with mobility issues or heights concerns (groups of 5-12, special request), this outdoor tour explores Greene King’s historic buildings and their heritage. Includes a virtual brewery tour, beer tastings, and condiments by Scarlett & Mustard, plus a free bottle or pint.
Both tours conclude at the Beer Café, where you can enjoy a 10% discount on shop purchases over £5 or dining (café closed to public on Sundays). Guides like Steve and Paul are praised for their knowledge and engaging style, often sharing fun facts, such as excess yeast being used for Marmite.
Activities and Events
The Greene King Beer Café, adjacent to the brewery, is a hub for additional experiences:
Tutored Beer Tastings: Sample Greene King and Belhaven beers, plus beer-based chutneys, marmalade, and mustard by Scarlett & Mustard.
Beer Café Events: Host private parties or events upstairs (seats up to 45, with cask/keg beers and catering options).
Shop: Stock up on Greene King and Belhaven beers, clothing, gifts, and condiments.
Check the Greene King website for seasonal events or special tour dates in 2025.
Suggested Day Itinerary for Greene King Brewery Tour
Make the most of your day out in Suffolk with this plan:
Morning: Arrive in Bury St Edmunds town centre and explore Abbey Gardens (free, open dawn to dusk) for a relaxing start.
Midday: Join a Greene King Brewery Tour (booked in advance; typically 11am or 2pm slots). Enjoy the brewery climb or outdoor history walk, followed by tastings at the Beer Café.
Afternoon: Lunch at the Beer Café or a nearby pub like The Nutshell, Britain’s smallest pub. Visit St Edmundsbury Cathedral (free entry, donations welcome) for a dose of history.
Evening: Shop at the market (Wednesdays/Saturdays) or dine at a local restaurant. Extend your adventure with a stay at West Stow Pods, offering four pods, two lodges, and a hobbit house just 6 miles away, perfect for a cozy Suffolk getaway.
Practical Information
Location: Westgate Brewery, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1QT. Less than 5 minutes’ walk from the town centre; limited parking at Beer Café (nearest public parking: Ram Meadow, Cotton Lane, IP33 1XT, or behind Premier Inn, IP33 2AR).
Opening Times (2025): Tours run regularly; check www.greeneking.co.uk/brewery-tours for schedules (typically daytime slots). Beer Café open Tuesday-Thursday 10am-4pm, Friday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday for tours only.
Admission Prices: Tours approximately £20 (includes tastings, free bottle/pint, and discounts); exact prices vary, so book online or call 01284 843326 to confirm.
Facilities: Limited parking; Beer Café for meals and drinks; shop with beers and gifts. Accessibility: Brewery Tour not suitable for mobility aids due to stairs; Walk, Talk, and Tasting Tour is accessible (call to arrange). Dogs not allowed in brewery or café.
Contact: Visit www.greeneking.co.uk/brewery-tours or call 01284 843326 for bookings and updates.
Visitor Tips: Book tours in advance, especially for peak seasons, and wear flat, enclosed shoes for the Brewery Tour. Arrive early for café dining (closed Sundays to public). If tours are listed as unavailable online, call to check for openings. For a relaxing stay, consider West Stow Pods, offering unique glamping nearby.
Why Visit Greene King Brewery Tour
The Greene King Brewery Tour offers a captivating blend of history, craftsmanship, and local flavour, making it a standout among Bury St Edmunds attractions. Whether climbing to the brewery roof for stunning views or exploring historic buildings on the accessible tour, visitors gain insight into Suffolk’s brewing legacy. With tastings, discounts, and a vibrant Beer Café, it’s a delightful addition to any Suffolk itinerary. Pair your visit with a stay at West Stow Pods for an authentic Suffolk experience.