Best Places To Buy Pub Beer

If you're looking to buy pub beer, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it's worth noting that different types of pubs cater to different crowds, from city pubs bustling with workers to theme pubs, country pubs, destination pubs, local pubs, and freehouses. Each offers a unique atmosphere and beer selection. Some pubs may also offer beer for takeaway, depending on their license and preferences. Online resources like BeerMenus can help you find specific beers near you, such as 10 Barrel Pub Beer or Boddington's Pub Ale. Additionally, pub breweries like Lake Placid Pub & Brewery offer a range of microbrewed ales and lagers, providing a unique drinking experience.

Buying pub beer to take away

If you're looking to buy pub beer to take away, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to note that not all pubs will be able to sell beer for off-premises consumption due to licensing restrictions. While there is only one type of license since 2003, the conditions of issue will vary, so it's worth checking with the pub beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Some pubs may also be against selling unopened beer for takeaway, even if their license permits it. Additionally, you will likely have to pay the full bar price for the beer, which can be more expensive than buying a multipack from a supermarket. However, if you live in a rural area without easy access to shops, this may be your best option.

When it comes to finding pubs that offer takeaway beer, it's worth looking out for those that specifically advertise this service. Brewdog, for example, offers "bottle service" where customers can purchase unopened bottles to take away. Some pubs may also offer "growlers", which are aluminium or glass containers that can be filled with a litre of beer from the tap.

It's also worth noting that in Scotland, there are additional restrictions on the sale of alcohol for off-premises consumption after 10 pm, so keep that in mind if you're planning a late-night beer run.

Lastly, don't be afraid to talk to the landlord or bar staff. They will be able to advise you on whether their pub is licensed to sell beer for off-premises consumption and may even be able to recommend alternative options if they aren't. Remember to be polite and patient, especially during busy times, and don't be afraid to ask about any local craft beers or special seasonal brews they may have available.

Pub beer in rural areas

In rural areas, the local pub is often the focal point of village social life, with individuals and families alike dropping in. In these areas, pubs are more likely to be independent, freehouses that can serve any beer or drink the landlord chooses, rather than being tied to a brewery.

In some rural areas, pubs may be the only place to buy alcohol, as there are no shops. In the UK, pubs in these areas may be able to sell unopened beer to take away, depending on their licence. In Scotland, however, alcohol cannot be bought to take off-premises after 10 pm, even from a pub.

In Australia, people in rural and remote communities are more likely to drink at risky levels than those in urban areas. In the US, the number of rural breweries has increased overall, but decreased as a percentage of all breweries since 2013.

Pub beer in cities

If you're looking for a pub in a city centre, you'll likely find yourself among people who work nearby, especially at lunch and right after work. These pubs can get very crowded and noisy, but they're great places to unwind, drink, and socialise. City pubs are usually bustling, and depending on their location, they may close when office workers head home or stay open for pre- and post-show or movie gatherings.

One type of city pub is the theme pub, including goth pubs, jazz pubs, comedy pubs, and rock pubs, which cater to specific interests and crowds. These are rarely found outside of cities and larger towns.

When it comes to the drinks offered, pubs in cities typically sell beer, wine, spirits (like whiskey, gin, and rum), soft drinks (such as Coke, Diet Coke, and bottled juices), and cider. Beer is available on tap, including bitter and pale ales, with some pubs offering a greater variety of bottled lagers. If you prefer your beer cold, go for a lager, as other beers are typically served at cellar temperature.

For those who don't drink alcohol, there are soft drinks like lemonade (the carbonated kind in the UK) and St. Clements, a mix of orange and lemon flavours.

In addition to drinks, city pubs may also offer bar snacks like crisps, peanuts, and pork scratchings, as well as bar food or a bar menu of sandwiches. Some pubs even have playgrounds and game rooms for children.

• The Cavern Pub in Liverpool, known for its connection to the Beatles and located across the street from the Cavern Club.
• The Sportsman near Whitstable, which boasts a Michelin star and matching prices.
• The Hand and Flowers, a 2-Michelin star pub in Marlow owned by Tom Kerridge.
• The Pipe and Glass Inn, an East Yorkshire pub that has earned a Michelin star.

So, whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere, a specific theme, or a renowned dining experience, city pubs have a lot to offer.

Pub beer in the UK

Beer has been brewed in England for thousands of years, and it is known for its top-fermented cask beer, or "real ale", which finishes maturing in the cellar of the pub. English beer styles include bitter, mild, brown ale, and old ale. While lager is now the most popular style of beer in the UK, there is still a wide variety of beer available in pubs across the country.

Types of Beer

The most popular style of beer in the UK is lager, which now accounts for more than half of the market. However, there are many other styles of beer available, including:

• Pale ales
• Stouts
• Porters
• Scotch ales
• India pale ales (IPAs)

Where to Find Pub Beer

You can find beer in any pub in the UK, but the selection will vary depending on the type of pub. There are several types of pubs in the UK, including:

• City pubs: Found in city centres, these pubs attract people who work nearby and can be very crowded at lunch and after work.
• Theme pubs: A subset of city pubs that cater to specific interests, such as goth, jazz, comedy, or rock.
• Country pubs: These pubs are often located in rural areas and may have a cosy, seventeenth-century interior.
• Destination pubs: A subset of country pubs that people will travel a long way to visit, usually due to the food, beer garden, character, or history.
• Local pubs: Very local pubs that may not be welcoming to out-of-towners.
• Freehouses: Independent pubs that are not tied to a specific brewery and can serve any variety of beer.
• Chain pubs: Found in train stations, shopping malls, and town centres, these pubs offer standardised food and drink and lack character.

Ordering Beer in a Pub

When ordering beer in a British pub, it is important to be patient and polite. Have your money ready, but don't wave it around to get the server's attention. Know what you want before you get to the bar, and be prepared to order drinks and snacks together. In the UK, it is customary for each person in a group to take turns buying a round of drinks for the whole group.

Pub beer in the US

Where to Buy Pub Beer in the US

If you're looking to buy pub beer in the US, there are several options available to you. Here are some ways to get your hands on those icy cold brews:

Online Retailers

One convenient option is to purchase beer online. Websites like BeerMenus, BeerRepublic, and Total Wine & More offer a wide selection of beers that can be delivered straight to your doorstep. This option allows you to browse different types of beer from the comfort of your home and have them delivered with just a few clicks.

Supermarket Chains

Many supermarket chains in the US sell a variety of beers. You can check the beer aisle of your local supermarket to find popular options like Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois, and more. This is a convenient option if you're already doing your grocery shopping and want to pick up some beer as well.

Local Pubs and Bars

Of course, one of the best places to buy pub beer is, well, at your local pub! Pubs and bars typically offer a rotating selection of beers on tap, as well as bottled and canned options. If you're looking for a fresh, crisp beer, ordering a draught beer at a pub is a great choice. Keep in mind that the selection may vary depending on the establishment, so it's always fun to explore different pubs and discover new beers.

Brewery Taprooms

If you're a true beer enthusiast, consider visiting the source and heading directly to a brewery's taproom. Many breweries in the US have taprooms or brewpubs where you can sample their beers directly from the source. This is a great way to discover new beers, learn about the brewing process, and often, purchase beer to take home with you.

Specialty Beer Stores

Lastly, depending on your location, you may have access to specialty beer stores. These stores typically offer a curated selection of craft beers, imports, and local brews. The staff at these stores are often very knowledgeable and can help you navigate their selection to find the perfect beer for your tastes.

Popular Pub Beers in the US

Now that you know where to buy pub beer, you might be wondering about some popular options to try. Here are some well-known and widely available beers that you'll commonly find on tap at pubs and bars across the US:

• Budweiser: This classic American lager is a staple in many pubs and bars. It's known for its crisp, refreshing taste and has a wide appeal.
• IPA (India Pale Ale): IPAs are incredibly popular in the US and you'll find a variety of options on tap. IPAs are known for their strong hoppy flavors and range from West Coast IPAs to New England-style hazy IPAs.
• Stout: Stouts are a dark, roasted beer with a robust flavor. Guinness is a well-known Irish stout that is commonly found on tap. It's known for its creamy head and smooth taste.
• Pale Ale: Pale ales are a well-rounded, moderately hoppy beer. Options like Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and New Belgium Voodoo Ranger are commonly found on tap.
• Pilsner: Pilsners are a crisp, golden beer with a clean finish. Pilsners like Pilsner Urquell and Victory Prima Pils are popular choices on tap.

Remember, while these are some of the more common beers you'll find on tap, the selection can vary widely depending on your location and the specific pub or bar you're visiting. Many establishments also offer seasonal and rotating taps, so there's always something new to try!

Frequently asked questions