Prince William and Catherine explored the Bermondsey Beer Mile in Southwark today, extending their morning visit to Borough Market with a tour of the area’s thriving craft beer scene.
This celebrated South London trail stretches approximately two miles and encompasses more than 20 independent breweries, taprooms and bottle shops.
Southwark has served as a brewing heartland for the capital since the 17th century.
The modern craft beer movement along the Beer Mile began in 2009 when The Kernel Brewery set up beneath railway arches close to London Bridge, triggering a wave of artisan brewing ventures in the neighbourhood.
Prince William and Catherine explored the Bermondsey Beer Mile in Southwark today, extending their morning visit to Borough Market with a tour of the area’s thriving craft beer scene.
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PA
The royal couple made Southwark Brewing Company their first stop on the Beer Mile.
Peter Jackson established the brewery in 2014, making it among the original five craft producers to open along the route.
The business grew from humble beginnings as a homebrew kit in Jackson’s garage into a fully operational brewery featuring a 10-barrel system and a handcrafted taproom.
A dedicated team has since joined the operation, bringing their own expertise and character to the enterprise.
The royal couple made Southwark Brewing Company their first stop on the Beer Mile.
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PA
Southwark Brewing continues to prioritise quality production and dependable service, supplying both the pub trade and welcoming visitors to their Bermondsey taproom.
The royal couple subsequently made their way to Fabal Beerhall, the newest enterprise from Hiver Beers.
Hannah Rhodes founded the London-based craft beer company, which operates as an independent, female-owned business.
Hiver distinguishes itself through a commitment to exclusively British ingredients, with raw honey sourced from independent UK beekeepers forming the cornerstone of its brewing approach.
The royal couple subsequently made their way to Fabal Beerhall, the newest enterprise from Hiver Beers.
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PA
Rather than treating honey merely as a flavouring agent, the brand incorporates it as a natural sugar during the fermentation process.
This technique produces a distinctively smooth character, offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional beer styles.
Rhodes’s journey into brewing began in 2013 after she completed a honey tasting course with the London Honey Company.
Learning that bees were flourishing across London’s rooftops and gardens, and understanding their vital contribution to food production, inspired her to create something new.
Beyond brewing, Hiver operates beekeeping experiences and honey harvesting workshops, having welcomed over 12,000 participants to these educational sessions.
The company expanded its range in 2020 with the introduction of Fabal Lager, an artisan English lager developed to broaden the business.
Fabal Beerhall itself opened its doors in 2024, becoming the brand’s latest addition to the Bermondsey Beer Mile.