Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar

Behind the Crescent in the vaulted basement of the Old Courthouse, one cellar along from a popular French restaurant, the Buxton Brewery Tap House & Cellar Bar is a must-visit destination for beer lovers.

Since its first brew was mashed in a family garage back in 2009, the nearby Brewery has come to do one of Britain’s finest beer counties proud with its impressive selection of over 30 distinct, handcrafted recipes and special editions. Innovation and quality form the guiding principles, along with a nod to tradition and minute attention to detail. Named after the town’s nearby moors, Axe Edge is among its most iconic beers, while unusual collaborations such as the Yellow Belly – a ‘bold and outspoken’ peanut butter and biscuit imperial stout made with brewers in Stockholm – have helped consolidate its reputation.

The tap house showcases the fruits of these labours admirably, serving a rotating selection with four hand pumps and 16 key keg beers on at any time. Almost all of the beers are vegan and can be ordered by the third as well as the more-traditional half and full pint measures, enabling you to sample more of what’s on offer without becoming completely inebriated. The flights of four schooners are also very popular for the same reason. There’s plenty to tempt non-beer drinkers too, including Buxton Gin and Pure North draught cider.

The accompanying food menu offers good-quality grub, from baguettes, burgers and briquettes to proper Sunday roasts; and the pared-back minimalist decor, with exposed brickwork and wooden beams, makes for a stylish yet comfortable, laid-back setting. The staff are super friendly and families with dogs are welcome.

Be prepared, this is one of Buxton’s most popular drinking spots so you may have to wait for a table, but never for too long and we reckon it’s worth it. Located less than five minutes’ walk from the train station and near to the equally lovely Red Willow, make this one of your last stops on the way home.