Nethergate Brewery
& Distillery
Traditionally Different Since 1986.
Trusted Independent Brewery & Distillery in Suffolk.
Nethergate Brewery
Bottles & Cans
Bottles & Cans
Suffolk-Born. Character-Brewed.
It Started with a Pint (and a Plan)
Our story began in 1986 in a snug Suffolk tavern. Two old school friends, Ian Hornsey and Dick Burge, found themselves disappointed by the local brews on offer. Armed with Ian’s expertise in microbiology and Dick’s financial acumen, they decided to stop complaining and start brewing. They found a home on Nethergate Street in Clare, acquired a 10-barrel kit, and set out to create a real ale legacy that would do Suffolk proud.
The Legend of the Bulldog
If you know Nethergate, you know Old Growler. Our multi-award-winning porter wasn’t named after a grumpy brewer—it was an homage to Ian’s beloved bulldog, Growler. First poured as a festive special in 1987, this "bulldog with bite" became so popular we never stopped brewing it. Today, it’s a two-time CAMRA Winter Beer of Britain champion and the crown jewel of our brewhouse.
Tradition with a Modern Twist
We respect our roots, but we aren’t stuck in the past. In 2017, we moved to our spacious new home in Long Melford, complete with state-of-the-art kit and our custom copper stills, Bonnie & Clyde. Whether it’s our crisp Nethergate Craft Lager, our adventurous Growling Dog series, or our award-winning Venture Point Five (all the flavor, only 0.5% ABV), we brew every drop with the same "grain to glass" care we started with in ’86.
Join the Family
Nethergate isn’t just a brewery; it’s a community. We’re proud to be one of the friendliest spots in East Anglia, with over 1,100 local members and two welcoming taprooms in Long Melford and Bury St Edmunds. Whether you're here for a brewery tour, a quiz night, or just a quiet pint by the bar, you’re part of the story.
Nethergate Distillery
A Dry Gin with a Suffolk Twist
Melford's Gin embodies the spirit of Suffolk. This inaugural gin, inspired by the serene landscapes of the Stour Valley, is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation.
New arrivals
No upcoming beers scheduled right now. Check back soon!
