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From Market Stalls to Railway Arches: A Bermondsey Beer Mile Adventure
I spent the morning exploring Borough Market before making my way onto the Bermondsey Beer Mile for the rest of the day. Borough Market was as busy and colourful as ever, with plenty to see as I wandered between the independent traders, food stalls and specialist shops. Along the way I enjoyed breakfast, called into Utobeer and The Cider House, and couldn’t resist a visit to The Rake for a beer.
From there I headed into Bermondsey, working my way through a fantastic selection of brewery taprooms, bars and cider makers beneath the railway arches. A stop at Maltby Street Market added even more variety, with its collection of independent food and drink businesses bringing plenty of character to the area. Throughout the day I enjoyed some excellent beers, friendly welcomes and a wide range of venues, finishing at The Kernel Taproom after a brilliant day exploring one of London’s best beer destinations.
Borough Market
I headed into London to spend a few hours exploring Borough Market, one of the city’s oldest and best-known food markets. Trading has taken place in the area for centuries, with the market occupying its current site near London Bridge since the mid-18th century. Today it remains a busy and colourful place, packed with independent traders selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to street food and speciality drinks.
Breakfast came from Maria’s Market Café, a long-standing Borough Market favourite that has been serving visitors for decades. After that I called into Utobeer, one of the UK’s best-known beer retailers, where the shelves were packed with cans and bottles from breweries across Britain and beyond, alongside a small but well-chosen draught selection. I also stopped by The Cider House, which offers an impressive range of ciders from independent producers, covering a wide variety of styles and flavours. I went for Luke’s Gospel by Luke’s Cider at The London Cider House, a crisp cider with fresh apple character and a clean, refreshing finish. I also went for Disco Disco by Tap East at Utobeer, a pale ale with bright citrus hop notes and a lively, fruity finish.
One of the things I enjoy most about Borough Market is the sheer variety on offer. Alongside the food and drink traders are plenty of independent retailers selling everything from cheese and charcuterie to spices, coffee and artisan products. There always seems to be something new to discover, making it a great place to wander, browse and enjoy a relaxed morning in the heart of London.
The Rake
Whilst I was at Borough Market, I couldn’t leave without visiting The Rake. The Rake is one of the landmarks of London’s modern beer scene. Opened in 2006 by the team behind Utobeer, it occupies a former café on the edge of Borough Market and quickly became a destination for people seeking something beyond mainstream beers. Despite its tiny size, The Rake helped introduce many London drinkers to the growing craft beer movement and gained a reputation for its ever-changing range of cask, keg and bottled beers. Tucked away on Winchester Walk, just behind the market, it remains a popular stop for visitors exploring one of London’s oldest and most famous market areas
Inside is every bit as compact as its reputation suggests, but it makes clever use of the space available. High tables and stools line the large front windows, bringing plenty of natural light into the bar and offering views out onto Borough Market. The walls are covered in signatures, doodles and messages left by visitors over the years, giving the room plenty of character and making it feel unlike anywhere else. Bright colours, industrial-style furniture and a busy atmosphere add to the charm. Outside, a surprisingly spacious covered courtyard provides plenty of additional seating, creating a comfortable spot to enjoy a drink away from the crowds.
Drinks wise a selection of 4 cask ales, a very impressive keg line up and a huge selection of cans and bottles to choose from. I went for Sunbather by Strawflower, an English IPA with lime, white grape and melon notes and a fresh, fruity finish.
Southwark Brewing Company
From Borough Market I headed down to Bermondsey to make a start on the Bermondsey Beer Mile. I started at Southwark Brewing Company. Southwark Brewing Company Tap Room is the tap room for Southwark Brewing Company, a brewery founded in 2014 by Peter Jackson and Andy Nichol. Operating from a railway arch on Druid Street, the brewery became part of the growing Bermondsey Beer Mile as the area developed into one of London’s best-known brewing destinations. From the beginning, Southwark focused on traditionally brewed British ales, drawing inspiration from classic British beer styles. As the Beer Mile grew in popularity, the tap room became a place where visitors could enjoy the brewery’s beers directly from the source. Today, it remains a popular stop for those exploring Bermondsey’s thriving brewing scene and railway arch tap rooms.
Inside is a working brewery and taproom rolled into one. The compact bar sits to the right-hand side, serving beers just a few steps from where they are brewed. The curved corrugated arch stretches overhead, with stainless steel brewing vessels and equipment occupying much of the space and providing a constant reminder that this is first and foremost a brewery. Long wooden bench tables offer plenty of seating, while displays celebrating the brewery’s history line the walls. Strings of lights soften the industrial surroundings and add a welcoming touch. It is an unpretentious space where brewing and drinking sit side by side, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
A selection of 6 cask ales to choose from on the front bar, with a variety of keg options on the back bar. I went for 3 Hops On Our Shirt by Southwark Brewing Co., a pale ale with citrus and tropical hop notes and a fresh, easy-drinking finish.
The Beer Bar
My next stop on the Beer Mile was to The Beer Bar. The Beer Bar is a modern addition to Bermondsey’s Beer Mile, forming part of a unique trio alongside Igloo Flowers and Poulet at The Pitch on the corner of Bermondsey Street and Tanner Street. Visitors can enjoy craft beer, browse flowers and plants, or grab food from Poulet’s rotisserie kitchen, all within the same outdoor space. The setting reflects Bermondsey’s changing character, where independent businesses have brought new life to former industrial areas. Tanner Street takes its name from the leather tanning industry that once dominated the district, linking the site’s present-day role with Bermondsey’s working past.
It has an unusual setup that feels closely connected to its neighbours, Igloo Flowers and Poulet. The bar itself occupies a narrow indoor space, with a row of taps along one side, warm lighting overhead and plants visible throughout. Beyond the bar, flowers and greenery help blur the line between bar and florist, giving the space a character unlike anywhere else on the Beer Mile. Most visitors gather outside, where benches sit beneath the railway arches alongside smaller tables on the corner. A colourful mural brightens one wall, while the brick arches and railway structure above provide a constant reminder of Bermondsey’s industrial past.
Drinks wise a keg line up of 7 keg lines mostly showcasing local breweries. I went for Pineapple and Passion Fruit Gose by 40FT Brewery & Taproom, a fruity sour with tropical pineapple and passion fruit flavours and a bright, tangy finish.
The Barrel Project
Onto The Barrel Project. The Barrel Project occupies a Victorian railway arch on Druid Street in Bermondsey, at the heart of the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile. Opened in early 2018 by London Beer Factory, it was created as a combined taproom, barrel-ageing project and blending space, giving the brewery a dedicated home for its more experimental beers. The venue takes its name from the hundreds of oak barrels used in the ageing process, drawing inspiration from traditional Belgian brewing and winemaking techniques. Housed beneath the railway arches that have long shaped this part of Bermondsey, The Barrel Project quickly became a popular stop on the Beer Mile, combining brewing, ageing and serving beer in one distinctive setting.
Inside is dominated by rows of oak barrels stacked high on both sides of the arch, creating a striking sight from the moment you walk in. The long, tunnel-like space makes full use of its railway setting, with the curved ceiling stretching the length of the venue and industrial lighting hanging overhead. Wooden tables and metal chairs fill the centre of the room, while the bar runs along one side beneath large beer boards and green-tiled detailing. The barrels are very much the star of the show, giving the space its character and making it feel unlike anywhere else on the Bermondsey Beer Mile.
A huge line up of 24 keg lines showcasing a massive variety of styles and strengths. Lots to choose from. I went for Day Dreamer by London Beer Factory, a hazy pale ale with juicy tropical fruit notes, citrus hops and a soft, smooth finish.
Billy Franks
Next on the Beer Mile was Billy Franks. Billy Franks Jerky is a jerky production site on Druid Street, right in the heart of Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile. The company has been making its award-winning jerky here since 2016 before converting the front of the premises into a craft beer bottle shop and bar. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, the shutters went up in 2020, creating a place where visitors could pair craft beer with the company’s own snacks. Over time it has grown from a bottle shop into a well-established stop on the Beer Mile, offering both indoor and outdoor drinking space while remaining closely linked to its snack-making roots.
Inside makes good use of its railway arch setting, with the curved metal ceiling, exposed steelwork and concrete floor giving the space plenty of industrial character. The layout is compact and informal, centred around a small tap wall and counter, while fridges packed with colourful cans showcase an impressive range of craft beer. Shelves stocked with Billy Franks jerky and snacks reflect the business’s roots, while framed football shirts, memorabilia and quirky decorative touches add personality throughout. Strings of lights help soften the industrial surroundings, creating a relaxed place to enjoy a drink. Outside, rows of wooden benches and tables provide additional seating looking out onto Druid Street and the activity of the Beer Mile.
On the bar a range of 4 keg options to choose from, along with fridges packed full of craft cans and bottles. I went for Azalea by GlassHouse Beer Co., a hazy pale ale with bright citrus and tropical fruit notes and a soft, juicy finish.
Hiver Beers
Under the railway brought me onto Hiver. Hiver Beers is a relative newcomer to Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile, but the story behind it began in 2013 when founder Hannah Rhodes set out to create beers brewed with British honey sourced from independent beekeepers. The business grew from a small craft brewery into a well-known name in London’s beer scene, combining brewing with a strong focus on supporting bees and British agriculture. Hiver later established its headquarters and taproom beneath the railway arches on Stanworth Street, where visitors can enjoy its honey beers, tastings and beekeeping experiences. Today, it remains one of the Beer Mile’s more distinctive stops, celebrating both beer and beekeeping.
Inside has a bright and airy feel that makes good use of its railway arch home. The curved corrugated ceiling and exposed structure give the space plenty of character, while the open front allows natural light to flood inside. A long bar runs down one side, with a mix of wooden tables, chairs and more relaxed seating spread throughout the arch. Colourful brewery artwork and bee-themed touches reflect Hiver’s identity without overwhelming the space. Upstairs seating provides extra room, while outside, rows of tables line the front of the arch, creating a popular spot to enjoy a beer beneath the railway viaduct.
A selection of 4 craft beers available on the bar to choose from, along with other options available in bottles. I went for The Honey Blonde Fresh Natural by Hiver Beers, a blonde ale brewed with honey, offering gentle floral notes and a smooth, refreshing finish.
The Old Timber Store
I headed over from Hiver Beers to Maltby St. Market. Here I first visited The Old Timber Store. This occupies a Victorian railway arch on Ropewalk in Bermondsey, beneath the viaduct built for the London & Greenwich Railway in the late 1830s. The arch forms part of one of London’s earliest railway structures and reflects the industrial character that once defined this part of south London. In more recent years, the area has been transformed by the arrival of Maltby Street Market, which launched in 2010 and brought new life to the arches through independent food and drink businesses. Today, the Old Timber Store combines historic railway architecture with a modern bar setting, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring Ropewalk and the surrounding market.
feels more like a rustic barn than a railway-arch bar. Reclaimed timber clads the walls, while exposed beams and a high vaulted ceiling create a surprisingly spacious feel. Large chandeliers hang overhead, surrounded by trailing greenery and decorative planting that soften the industrial structure. Warm fairy lights run along the walls, giving the room a cosy glow, especially towards the rear of the arch. Seating is made up of simple wooden tables and chairs spread throughout the space, with a small serving area tucked to one side. Outside, additional tables provide a relaxed spot to enjoy a drink beneath the surrounding arches.
Worth checking out Battersea Biltong if they have their stall here, it’s super tasty. On the bar a selection of 2 keg beers to choose from, an IPA and a Lager. I went for Mesmerist by Siren Craft Brew, a hazy IPA with juicy tropical fruit, citrus hop notes and a soft, full-bodied finish.
MALT
A few doors down was MALT . Malt occupies one of the historic railway arches on Ropewalk in Bermondsey, a site shaped by the arrival of the London & Greenwich Railway in the 1830s. The arches were originally built to support the railway viaduct and, over the years, housed a variety of industrial and storage businesses linked to the area’s working past. As Bermondsey changed during the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, many of the arches found new uses, helping transform Ropewalk into a destination for independent food and drink businesses. Malt is part of that revival, giving new life to a Victorian railway arch while retaining a connection to the area’s industrial heritage.
Inside feels unlike a typical railway-arch bar. The space is dark and atmospheric, with exposed brickwork, black-painted walls and a maze of timber beams and metalwork overhead. Strings of warm lights criss-cross the ceiling, while a mirrored disco ball and hanging dried flowers add unexpected touches of colour. Everywhere you look there are interesting objects, from old tools and signs to motorcycle helmets, speakers and industrial fittings, giving the bar the feel of a carefully assembled workshop. Seating is spread around small tables and booths, creating a lively, intimate setting that encourages people to settle in and stay awhile.
Drinks wise a selection of 4 keg beers to choose from, varying in style. I went for Hum by Beak, a hazy pale ale with juicy tropical fruit notes, soft citrus flavour and a smooth, pillowy finish.
Arch House (Anspach & Hobday)
I headed back onto the Bermondsey Beer Mile, visiting Anspach & Hobday Arch House. Arch House is the taproom of Anspach & Hobday, one of the original breweries to help establish the Bermondsey Beer Mile. The brewery was founded in 2014 and began brewing beneath the railway arches on Druid Street, where the taproom still stands today. Set within a Victorian railway arch, the site became a popular stop as the Beer Mile grew from a handful of breweries into one of London’s best-known beer destinations. In recent years the main brewing operation moved to larger premises in Croydon, but Arch House remains the brewery’s spiritual home, welcoming visitors to the place where the story first began.
Inside has a distinctive look created by its curved corrugated-iron ceiling, which runs the full length of the railway arch. Large stainless-steel brewing vessels stand beside the seating area, keeping the brewery firmly at the heart of the taproom. Long bench seating lines both sides of the space, with wooden tables and a central walkway leading towards the bar at the far end. Brewery artwork, framed posters and subtle lighting add character without distracting from the industrial surroundings. Outside, picnic benches sit beneath the brick railway arches, creating a popular spot to enjoy a drink and watch the activity along Druid Street.
A great selection on the bar of 12 keg options, alongside a single cask ale.
I went for Hedgerow by Anspach & Hobday, a wild ale with hedgerow berries, gentle tartness and a dry, complex finish.
It Ain’t Much if it Ain’t Dutch
Heading under the railway and onto the opposite side of the railway brought me next to Dutch Taproom “It ain’t much if it ain’t Dutch” & PR Dutch Drinks Ltd.. It Ain’t Much If It Ain’t Dutch is one of the newer additions to Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile, opening in 2023 beneath the railway arches on Enid Street. Created by Dutch beer enthusiast Eric Holland and the team behind PR Dutch Drinks, the venue was established to showcase independent Dutch breweries and bring a taste of Dutch beer culture to London. The name reflects its proudly Dutch focus, with beers sourced from across the Netherlands rather than a single brewery. Since opening, it has become a distinctive stop on the Beer Mile, offering something a little different from its brewing neighbours while celebrating the depth and variety of Dutch craft beer.
Inside is unlike any other railway-arch taproom on the Beer Mile. The first thing that catches the eye is the huge illustrated ceiling, covered with colourful Dutch-inspired characters that stretch across the entire arch. Beneath it, a long bar lined with dozens of taps runs along one side, while high tables and stools provide seating throughout the space. Dutch flags, greenery and warm lighting add plenty of colour, while a mezzanine level overlooking the bar makes the arch feel larger than it first appears. The result is a lively, welcoming space packed with character and personality.
The extensive tap list focuses on Dutch and Belgian beer, ranging from lagers and pale ales to imperial stouts and barrel-aged specials. Bottle pours from Dutch brewery Tommie Sjef add a selection of wild and mixed-fermentation beers. I went for Sauvin by Tommie Sjef, a wild ale blending rustic saison and aged barrel-aged beers, dry-hopped with Nelson Sauvin for notes of white grape, melon, citrus and a balanced tart finish.
Blue Monk
Next up on the Mile was to Blue Monk. Blue Monk occupies a railway arch at 71 Enid Street on Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile. The site originally opened in late 2017 as the London taproom for Bristol’s Moor Beer, providing a base for its beers beneath the railway arches that have become synonymous with London’s modern brewing scene. In early 2026, the venue was relaunched as Blue Monk under new ownership, while retaining its place as a destination for beer lovers. Today it combines craft beer with live music and events, bringing fresh life to a well-known Beer Mile arch. Despite the changes over the years, it remains firmly part of Bermondsey’s thriving beer culture.
Inside has a dark, industrial look that feels quite different from many of the brighter venues along the Beer Mile. Black-painted steelwork, exposed beams and low lighting give the space plenty of character, while coloured lights and strings of bulbs add a warm glow throughout. The bar sits beneath hand-written beer boards and a row of taps, with fridges stocked with cans and bottles built into the back wall. Elsewhere, football shirts, artwork and memorabilia cover the walls, giving the venue a personal touch. Seating is spread between stools, barrel tables and smaller corners, creating a relaxed and informal place to enjoy a drink.
A great line up on the bar of 11 keg lines and a single cask line. Great to see a number of Scottish beers on. I went for Goldfinch by Black Isle Brewery, a golden ale with floral hop notes, hints of citrus and a crisp, refreshing finish.
Big Hug Social
Next door was Big Hug Social by Big Hug Brewing. Big Hug Social opened on 14 June 2026 in the Bermondsey railway arch previously occupied by Gosnells. Created by Big Hug Brewing, the venue gives the brewery a permanent home on the Bermondsey Beer Mile after more than a decade of brewing and building partnerships with charitable causes. Founded in 2014, Big Hug Brewing has always combined beer with a social purpose, supporting organisations working with homelessness and environmental projects. The move to Enid Street marked an important new chapter, transforming a well-known Beer Mile arch into a welcoming space for fresh beer, events, live entertainment and community gatherings.
Inside makes full use of its railway-arch setting, with the long curved ceiling creating a bright and open space. A striking blue bar sits at the centre, lined with taps and topped with white tiles, while colourful lighting and a neon brewery sign add character towards the rear. The seating is a mix of long wooden benches, tables and comfortable leather sofas, giving visitors plenty of options whether dropping in for a quick drink or staying longer. Timber panelling softens the industrial surroundings, while greenery around the bar helps break up the space and adds a welcoming touch.
10 craft beer taps, alongside some Mead from Gosnells with other options available. I went for Juicy Pale by Big Hug Brewing, a hazy pale ale with juicy tropical fruit notes, citrus hops and a soft, refreshing finish.
Cloudwater Tap Room
My next visit on the mile was to 73 Enid Street Cloudwater London. Cloudwater Tap Room is the London home of Manchester’s renowned Cloudwater Brewery, one of the leading names in modern British craft beer. The brewery expanded to Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile in 2019, opening its tap room in a railway arch at 73 Enid Street among a growing collection of independent breweries and taprooms. The venue quickly became a popular stop for beer enthusiasts exploring the area, offering a showcase for Cloudwater’s latest releases alongside special collaborations and barrel-aged beers. While firmly rooted in London, it maintains a strong connection to its Manchester origins and has become an established part of Bermondsey’s thriving beer scene.
Inside has a bright and contemporary look that feels quite different from many railway arch venues. The long, curved ceiling is lined with corrugated metal, while colourful artwork panels suspended overhead draw the eye along the length of the space. White walls, polished concrete floors and soft lighting help keep things airy and open. Seating is arranged at wooden tables running through the centre of the taproom, with the bar positioned at the far end beneath Cloudwater’s glowing cloud logo. Fridges stocked with cans and a merchandise area add interest, while outside benches beneath the railway arches provide extra space for a drink on warmer days.
A fantastic line up of 19 keg lines to choose from, ranging in style and strength, along with an impressive can line up. I went for Words of Wisdom by Cloudwater Brew Co., a fruited gose packed with raspberry, mango and a hint of lime, giving it a sweet, tart and refreshing finish.
Against the Grain Cidery
Still on the Bermondsey Beer Mile, with my next stop being Against The Grain Cidery. Against The Grain is one of the newer additions to Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile, occupying an arch at 76 Enid Street. The business began in south-west London before relocating to Bermondsey in 2025, bringing its craft cider operation directly into the heart of the capital’s brewing and drinking scene. The cidery produces its own ciders on site using fresh fruit rather than concentrate, and the move restored cider-making to this stretch of Enid Street. Housed beneath the railway arches, it has quickly become a popular stop for visitors looking for something a little different alongside the area’s many brewery taprooms.
Inside has a bright and airy feel that makes excellent use of its railway arch setting. The high curved ceiling, painted white throughout, gives the space a surprisingly open look, while strands of warm lighting add a welcoming touch overhead. Long wooden tables and benches run through the taproom, alongside a mix of chairs that create an informal and relaxed atmosphere. The walls are kept largely uncluttered, with a few pieces of artwork, plants and shelves of board games adding character. Large windows at the front bring in plenty of natural light, while outdoor bench seating extends the space onto the arch frontage outside.
On the bar a selection of 5 ciders, 3 craft beers and a selection of cans to choose from. A delicious cheese toastie from “panini_paradise” outside here aswell which went down really well. I went for Bone Idle by Jawbone Brewing, a pale ale with soft citrus hop notes and a clean, easy-going finish.
Bianca Road Brewery Taproom
Next was onto Bianca Road Brew Co. Bianca Road Brewery Taproom is the brewery tap of Bianca Road Brew Co, an independent London brewery founded by Reece Wood in 2016. The brewery first opened in Peckham, taking its name from Bianca Road, before moving to larger premises in Bermondsey in 2017. In 2019, it relocated again to its current home on Enid Street, right in the heart of the Bermondsey Beer Mile, where the brewery and taproom operate side by side beneath railway arches. Inspired by a cycling trip across the United States and a love of fresh, hop-forward beers, Bianca Road has become a well-known stop for beer lovers exploring the area. Today, it remains an independent part of Bermondsey’s thriving brewing scene.
Inside has a bright, open feel that makes good use of its railway arch home. The high curved ceiling and corrugated metal lining create a distinctive look, while the pale green walls, wooden tables and black stools help keep the space welcoming and comfortable. A long central aisle leads towards the bar at the far end, with plenty of seating for both small groups and larger gatherings. Maps, artwork and subtle décor add interest without cluttering the room. Outside, a busy seating area stretches along the arches, making it a popular spot to enjoy a drink on warmer days. Overall, it feels spacious, relaxed and full of life.
A fantastic line up of 15 keg lines showcasing a variety of styles and strengths to choose from. I went for Pucker Up, Buttercup by BRBC, a sour ale with bright citrus flavour and a sharp, refreshing finish.
Craft Beer Junction
Another very short stroll brought me to Craft Beer Junction. Craft Beer Junction occupies one of the railway arches on Enid Street and is a relatively recent addition to the Bermondsey Beer Mile. The bar opened in May 2021, created by beer importer and distributor Craft Beer Junction, with a focus on bringing fresh craft beer from the United States, Europe and the UK to London drinkers. Unlike many of its neighbours, it did not begin as a brewery taproom, instead specialising in carefully sourced guest beers. In 2024, a small nano-brewery was added within the arch, allowing beer to be brewed on site for the first time. Today, it remains a popular stop on the Beer Mile, offering something a little different among Bermondsey’s railway arches.
Inside feels bright, open and full of character. The high curved ceiling of the railway arch creates an impressive sense of space, while long rows of tables and stools provide plenty of room for groups and smaller gatherings. The walls are lined with photographs, beer boards and sports memorabilia, with American sports team flags, international bunting and colourful decorations adding plenty of interest overhead. Towards the rear, a timber-built mezzanine level overlooks the main taproom, giving the venue a distinctive layout. Large front windows and the wide opening onto Enid Street help connect the indoor space with the busy outdoor seating area.
A great warm welcome from Marcin and a fantastic keg line up featuring a variety of UK and US beers. And the Cheese Toasties from Borough Cheese Company were fantastic! I went for Tea’s In the Trap by Hidden Springs Ale Works, a black tea and lemonade-inspired sour with bright citrus flavour and a sharp, refreshing finish.
Enid St Tavern
Onto Enid St Tavern (by Bianca Road Brew Co). Enid St Tavern occupies a railway arch at 87 Enid Street in the heart of Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile. The venue opened in 2023 as a second taproom for Bianca Road Brewery, whose main brewery and taproom sit just a few doors away. Originally launched as Dog House Tap, it was later rebranded as Enid St Tavern while remaining part of the Bianca Road family. Housed within one of the area’s former railway arches, it reflects the wider transformation of Bermondsey from an industrial district into one of London’s best-known beer destinations. Today, it continues to welcome visitors exploring the Beer Mile and the surrounding railway arch taprooms.
Inside has a warm and welcoming look that feels a little different from many of the neighbouring Beer Mile arches. Timber-clad walls, hanging hop bines and rows of booth seating create a cosy setting, while exposed steelwork and polished concrete floors retain a connection to the building’s industrial surroundings. The compact bar sits towards the rear, backed by a tiled wall, a rotating beer list and a colourful display of brewery stickers. Outside, the large seating area beneath the railway arches is a real focal point, with picnic benches creating a lively and sociable space that spills out onto Enid Street.
A great warm welcome from Ben and the team when I arrived. Drinks wise a single cask ale alongside a variety of Keg lines on the back wall. I went for Open Road by BRBC, an English pale ale with gentle citrus hop notes and a smooth, easy finish.
Mash Paddle Brewery Taproom
My penultimate call on the Bermondsey Beer Mile was to Mash Paddle Brewery. Mash Paddle Brewery Taproom occupies a railway arch at 92 Enid Street on Bermondsey’s famous Beer Mile. Opened in 2022, it was founded by homebrewer Nick Harkin and created as a brewing incubator where aspiring brewers can learn, experiment and produce their own beer using professional equipment. The project followed in the footsteps of the former UBREW concept, bringing small-scale brewing back to the area in a new form. Alongside the brewery, a public taproom was established, offering Mash Paddle beers alongside guest brews. Today it remains one of the newer additions to the Beer Mile, combining brewing, education and great beer under one roof.
Inside has a bright and distinctive look that stands out from many of its Beer Mile neighbours. Set beneath the railway arches, the space combines painted metal-clad walls, exposed steelwork and brewing equipment to create a working brewery atmosphere. Bold blue and yellow artwork adds plenty of colour, while strings of warm lights soften the industrial surroundings. Wooden picnic benches provide seating throughout, and the brewing vessels sit alongside the drinking area, keeping beer production firmly in view. A metal staircase leads to an upper level, while outside seating beneath the arches creates a lively and sociable space on busy days.
A great variety is on offer from the 12 keg lines featuring their own beers alongside guests. I went for Brew Experience #5531 by Mash Paddle Brewery, a best bitter with balanced malt flavour and a smooth, easy-drinking finish.
Kernel Taproom – Spa Road
My final call and the end to a brilliant day was to The Kernel Taproom – Spa Road. The Kernel Brewery was founded in 2009 and played a major role in establishing what became the famous Bermondsey Beer Mile. The brewery moved to Spa Road in 2012, operating from railway arches that became a destination for beer lovers from across the country. For many years visitors drank in the brewery’s own taproom nearby, but that closed when a larger replacement venue opened at 132 Spa Road on 8 August 2024. Today, the Kernel Tap Room provides a dedicated home for the brewery’s beers in a spacious setting, continuing the brewery’s long connection with Bermondsey’s brewing and food-producing community.
Inside combines an industrial look with a surprisingly warm and welcoming atmosphere. Exposed concrete pillars, polished floors and visible ductwork reflect the building’s working roots, while globe lighting, hanging plants and timber panelling add plenty of character. Large windows along one side flood the space with natural light, helping it feel open and spacious. Long communal tables and benches run through the taproom, creating plenty of room for groups and smaller gatherings alike. The bar sits at the centre of the action, backed by extensive beer boards and bottle displays that showcase the brewery’s wide range of beers.
An impressive selection of 24 lines to choose from showcasing a vast choice of styles and strengths. I went for Bière De Saison Damson (2023) by The Kernel Brewery, a saison with rich damson fruit flavour, gentle tartness and a dry, complex finish.
Micropub Adventures 