Brewing up a successful future with visitor tours
Bath Ales has been proving what a real local Gem it is since the opening of its Hare Brewery. As well as welcoming beer lovers to tour its site in Warmsley, its success has been tasted by MP Chris Skidmore. The new multi-million-pound brewhouse, which also features bottling and cask racking facilities, is one of the most technologically advanced brewing set-ups in the UK, with a capacity of more than 50,000 brewers’ barrels ensuring pubs won’t ever run dry of Gem, Wild Hare, Barnsey or other Bath Ales favourites. Operations manager Mick Stawniczy said: “While we have got what is probably the most state of the art equipment in the country here in the brewhouse, we also think it’s a beautiful thing to look at, so we were thrilled when Chris asked to be shown around to give it his seal of approval.” After a guided tour of the brewhouse and the bottling plant, the MP for Kingswood was treated to a glass of Bath Ales’ Sulis lager, specially brewed to coincide with the opening of the Brewery, at the Brewery Tap in Hare House. Mr Skidmore said: “I am very proud to have such a fantastic ale produced locally in my constituency. Even if it is called Bath Ales it certainly puts Kingswood on the map and it great to see the company going from strength to strength. The new brewery has to be seen to be believed - not only will it benefit our local economy producing more than ever before, the visitor area is superb. I was really grateful for the opportunity to look around and see the investment that St Austell have made in Bath Ales - it is the perfect combination and I hope Bath Ales can also invest in local pubs as they have done so well in the past.” Teams from the St Austell Brewery and Bath Ales have also enjoyed a tour and some samples at the new brewery. Visitors learn all about the different stages of the brewing process before tasting the end product fresh from the fermentation vessels. Bath Ales tours are open to the public on Thursdays at 6pm and on Saturdays at 2pm and can be booked in advance by calling 0117 947 4797.