Beer-loving entrepreneur launches Yorkshire's first brewery bus tour

A North Yorkshire entrepreneur is set to launch a new beer business venture.

Mark Stredwick launches Brewtown Tours this week, giving beer lovers the opportunity to go behind the scenes of some of the big names and rising stars of Yorkshire’s beer industry.

The stops currently available on Brewtown Tours include Brew York in York city centre, Half Moon Brewery in Ellerton, The Hop Studio near Elvington, Ainsty Ales in Acaster Malbis; Brass Castle and Bad Seed in Malton.

Mark is also in discussions with West Yorkshire breweries, including North Brewing Co, Northern Monk and Brewery Tap, with a view to launching a Leeds-based tour in the coming months.

Mark first imagined this business venture when he returned to the UK in May after 16 years living overseas.

Mark explained: “My life overseas included a five-week craft beer tour of north western America and a stint as a tour guide with Dave’s Brewery Tours in Australia.

“I came back to the UK buzzing with ideas and keen to set up my own business. The beer scene here is fantastic, and very different to the one I left 16 years ago, but I was surprised to see that brewery bus tours, which are part and parcel of the industry in other countries, simply don’t exist here in the UK.”

Mark then set about researching and visiting Yorkshire’s microbreweries, starting in North Yorkshire, discovering the variety of beer styles on offer and exploring the products breweries offer.

Six months on, and Brewtown Tours is ready to embark on its first guided tour.

Mark added: “The concept is simple. I take small groups of up to eight people on a tour of three breweries over the course of an afternoon, taking in some stunning Yorkshire countryside along the way and giving them an opportunity to learn about the brewing process, explore working breweries, meet some of the people who are driving the beer revolution and sample some of the most delicious beers in the UK.

“My aim is to help visitors and locals alike explore the incredible range of craft beers and real ales Yorkshire has to offer, through a fun, laid back touring experience with fellow beer enthusiasts. Our great relationships with local breweries create a VIP tour experience for guests – every tour is different, and every brewery has something unique to offer.”

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