Harveys Brewery Tour – The Best of Sussex
Harveys Brewery is one of the UK’s oldest and most respected breweries. Founded in Lewes, East Sussex, in 1790, They have provided some of the country’s finest ales for over two centuries. Harveys still produces world-renowned ales and ciders today, including their flagship beer – Sussex Best Bitter. This blog post will explore the history of this brewery, its products, and why it’s considered the best of Sussex.
The History of the Brewery
The Harvey family originated from London and began brewing in Lewes in the time of George III. In 1838, John Harvey acquired the current Bridge Wharf Site for £3,100. At this time, beer was considered safer than water due to boiling out harmful bacteria. Henry Harvey brewed Porters, Stouts and strong Mild Ales for distribution among 17 family-owned public houses in Sussex’s Eastbourne and Hailsham areas. These were prosperous days for enterprising brewers as Harveys became a regional brewery producing cask ales and bottled beers.
The beers produced by Harveys
Harveys Brewery is a regional brewery located in the heart of Sussex. As a cask ale specialist, they have five core ales available all year round. Producing Old Ale for six months of the year. Customers can contact their Trade Team to stock the core range. Including their flagship Sussex Best Bitter, an English bitter named after the county, Harveys IPA, Old Ale, Mild, and Sussex Whole Hop Gold. The brewery also produces a range of bottled beers, such as its award-winning Imperial Russian Stout and Regency. Whether after a traditional cask ale or a premium bottled beer, you will surely find something to enjoy from them.
Why Harveys is the best brewery in Sussex
Harvey’s Brewery is the oldest independent regional brewery in Sussex. Passed down through seven generations of John Harvey’s descendants since 1790. Brewing beer was incredibly important in past times as it accounted for nearly a quarter of a family’s budget.
In just under 70 years, Harvey’s beers have won more than 100 awards and have faced three major catastrophes – one fire and two floods. In the modern age, Eric Rundle’s daughters Audrey, Eileen and Joan took seats on Harvey’s Brewery Board. Anthony Jenner’s son Miles and Hamish Elder (son of Audrey) joined the firm.
Audrey Elder became Harvey’s second female Chairman in 2002, and Adele Smith and Julia Prescott (sister of Hamish, daughter of Audrey) came to sit on the company’s Board of Directors in the 2000s. Hamish Elder became Company Chairman in 2008 and is also Joint Managing Director with Miles Jenner, Harvey’s Head Brewer.
Harveys has an excellent selection of cask ales, bottled beers and other varieties, making it the best brewery in Sussex. Their commitment to quality and their passion for brewing makes them a leader in their field. Whether you’re after a great pint or just looking to explore their history, visiting Harveys Brewery is sure to be an enjoyable experience.
How to visit the Harveys Brewery
If you’re looking for a unique experience and to learn more about Sussex’s regional brewery, Harveys, why not take a tour? Head on over to the Harvey’s website for more information and availability: https://www.harveys.org.uk/brewery-tours
If you can’t make it to the brewery, you can still learn about the history of Harveys through the Geterbrewed virtual tour available on the Geterbrewed youtube channel. This tour is a must-watch and will provide you with all the details of the brewery and what they do best – brewing delicious cask ales and bottled beers!
It’s important to remember that these tours are suitable for those over 18s only. If you’d like to learn more, please visit the Harveys Brewery website.