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Turning Point Brew Co: The Yorkshire Brewery Turning Heads

Richard Payne
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Turning Point Brew Co: The Yorkshire Brewery Turning Heads

Founded in 2017, Turning Point Brew Co. has gone from a small idea between two beer enthusiasts to one of the most exciting independent breweries in Yorkshire. Known for bold flavours, quirky branding, and a dedication to community, Turning Point has carved out a unique space in the UK’s crowded craft beer scene.

The Beginning of the Journey

Turning Point was launched by Cameron Brown and Aaron Mellor, two friends with a shared passion for good beer and a determination to do things differently. Starting with a small kit and a handful of recipes, their early batches were sold locally, quickly building a loyal following across Yorkshire.

The name Turning Point reflected their ambition: to mark a change in direction for modern British beer, blending tradition with a sense of fun and adventure.

The Beer That Made the Difference

Every brewery has its breakthrough moment, and for Turning Point it was Disco King. This modern pale ale, packed with citrus and tropical fruit notes, became an instant hit in pubs and bars. It remains a core beer to this day — one that regulars come back to while new drinkers often discover first.

From there, the brewery began expanding its range:

  • Lunar Haze – a juicy, hazy IPA that celebrates bold hopping.
  • Ecstatic Youth – a punchy session pale ale perfect for long afternoons.
  • Lucid Dream – a creamy, chocolatey stout showcasing their ability to brew beyond hops.

Seasonal specials, collaborations, and one-off experiments keep their line-up fresh and unpredictable, ensuring there’s always something new for drinkers to discover.

The Taproom and Community

Based in Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, Turning Point’s taproom has become more than just a place to drink. It’s a social hub where beer lovers can meet the brewers, try exclusive releases, and enjoy a genuine community atmosphere.

Events such as tap takeovers, live music nights, and beer festivals make the taproom a lively cornerstone of the local scene. Regulars say the space feels like home — welcoming, relaxed, and full of character, much like the brewery itself.

Turning Point’s taproom has become a hub for Yorkshire’s craft beer community.

A Modern Approach to Brewing

What sets Turning Point apart is their willingness to experiment while still respecting the basics. They embrace modern trends like hazy IPAs and fruited sours, but balance them with traditional brewing skills. This combination keeps them relevant in a rapidly shifting market.

They also place emphasis on sustainability and quality control. Local ingredients are used wherever possible, and every beer is carefully tested to ensure consistency — a crucial detail in the competitive world of craft brewing.

Navigating the Challenges

Like many small breweries, Turning Point has faced significant challenges. Rising costs of raw materials, increased energy bills, and a competitive market put constant pressure on independents. But instead of scaling back, Turning Point has leaned into its strengths — creativity, flexibility, and close connections with pubs.

By focusing on grassroots events and strong distribution partnerships, their beers can now be found far beyond Yorkshire, appearing at pubs, festivals, and tap takeovers across the UK.

Looking Ahead

The future looks promising for Turning Point. The team has hinted at further expansion of both brewing capacity and distribution, while continuing to brew a mix of core favourites and wild, small-batch experiments.

Collaborations with other breweries remain a key focus, helping them share ideas and showcase the best of British brewing culture. And with more drinkers than ever seeking out quality, independent beer, Turning Point is well positioned to thrive.

Why It Matters

Turning Point Brew Co. is more than just another craft brewery — it’s a story of passion, resilience, and the power of community. From their playful branding and memorable beers to their loyal following in Knaresborough and beyond, they embody everything that makes the UK’s independent brewing scene so exciting.

For anyone who loves great beer, a visit to Turning Point’s taproom or a pint of Disco King in their local is a reminder of why small breweries continue to make such a big impact.

How UK Pubs Are Adapting to Modern Drinking Trends

Richard Payne
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How UK Pubs Are Adapting to Modern Drinking Trends

The Great British pub has always evolved with the times — and in 2025, landlords are once again finding new ways to adapt to changing drinking habits. From alcohol-free alternatives to premium experiences, today’s pubs are reshaping their offer to keep pace with modern tastes.

Rise of Low and No-Alcohol Drinks

One of the biggest shifts in recent years has been the growth of low and no-alcohol options. Younger drinkers in particular are more health-conscious, often opting for alcohol-free beer, cider, and cocktails. Many pubs now dedicate full menu sections to these drinks, with some even hosting “dry nights” or themed events to showcase them.

Premiumisation and Experience

Customers may be drinking less overall, but they’re often spending more on quality. Craft beers, boutique spirits, and curated wine lists are in high demand, especially in gastropubs and city venues. Pubs are also focusing on the experience — offering tasting flights, pairing menus, and unique serves to create memorable visits.

Food at the Forefront

Gone are the days when pub food meant little more than pies and chips. Today, pubs are competing with restaurants, investing heavily in kitchens and chefs. Many locals now see their pub as a dining destination, not just a place for a pint. Menus featuring seasonal produce, vegan options, and global influences are helping attract a wider audience.

Technology and Convenience

Pubs are also embracing technology. Ordering apps, digital loyalty schemes, and QR-code menus became common during the pandemic and have stuck around. These tools not only make service faster but also give pubs valuable insights into customer preferences.

Community and Social Value

Despite modernisation, the community role of pubs remains crucial. Many landlords are doubling down on live music, pub quizzes, and charity events to keep people coming through the doors. As costs rise and competition grows, pubs that root themselves in their communities are often the ones that thrive.

The Future of the Pub

From craft beer to non-alcoholic trends, UK pubs are showing resilience by blending tradition with innovation. While the challenges are real — rising costs, staffing pressures, and closures — the ability to adapt has always been the pub’s greatest strength.

If history has shown us anything, it’s that the Great British pub isn’t going anywhere. It’s just changing, one pint (or mocktail) at a time.

Tulse Hill’s Queen of the South Launches £500k Appeal to Secure Its Future

Richard Payne
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Tulse Hill’s Queen of the South Launches £500k Appeal to Secure Its Future

The much-loved Queen of the South pub in Tulse Hill has launched a huge £500,000 fundraising appeal to safeguard its future after facing the threat of closure earlier this summer.

Just two years since opening, the venue has already cemented itself as a hub for live music, food, and community in South London. But earlier this month, shockwaves ran through locals when the freehold was snapped up by Young’s, raising fears that the pub could be lost for good.

Thanks to fast-moving negotiations, pub boss Clement Ogbonnaya confirmed that a deal has been struck: the Queen of the South will be able to buy its freehold outright, take over Young’s 50% stake in the lease, and clear its loans.

Now comes the challenge — raising £500,000 to make it happen.

The Appeal

The campaign is open to both public donations and private investors, with backers set to receive a stake in the pub’s freehold and future profits. A Crowdfunder page has already gone live, and momentum is building as word spreads across South London’s pub scene.

Investor Dinner & Drinks

To fire up support, the pub is hosting a special Investor Dinner & Drinks evening on Thursday 21st August at 7pm. Locals and supporters will get the chance to hear the plans first-hand, share a pint, and find out how they can play a part in keeping the doors open.

Why It Matters

  • The Queen of the South has quickly become one of South London’s standout pubs, with a reputation for community events and a buzzing atmosphere.
  • Its closure would have been a major blow to the area’s nightlife, but now locals have a unique opportunity to own a slice of their favourite boozer.
  • With enough backing, the pub could not only survive but thrive — fully independent and run with the community at its heart.

Norwich’s Last Pub Standing Faces Fresh Battle Over Late-Night Music

Richard Payne
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Norwich’s Last Pub Standing Faces Fresh Battle Over Late-Night Music

One of Norwich’s best-loved pubs is once again at the centre of a licensing row — this time over plans to extend its outdoor music hours.

The Last Pub Standing, a city centre favourite on King Street, has applied to Norwich City Council to allow recorded music in its back garden until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 11pm on weekdays. At present, the pub must cut the music at 10pm (11pm on weekends) following a licensing deal struck less than two years ago.

Noise Complaints Loom Large

The request hasn’t gone down well with council officials. The venue has faced a string of noise complaints in the past, and Norwich City Council’s environmental protection team has already objected, citing an abatement notice still in place against the venue. They argue that any extension could cause a public nuisance without a full new noise impact assessment.

A Rocky Licensing History

The pub, owned by Simon Peters, has had a complicated relationship with licensing in recent years. After a split with a former business partner left the business in administration, Peters relaunched under a new company and secured a new premises licence in January 2024. But Peters says the current licence came with “more onerous terms” — such as strict limits on garden use and mandatory window closures during entertainment.

Trial Run at Easter

Despite the council’s concerns, Peters argues the pub can handle later music hours without upsetting neighbours. Over Easter, the venue was allowed a temporary trial with extended hours — and Peters says it received zero complaints.

The Last Pub Standing is especially busy on Norwich City FC match days, given its short walk from Carrow Road stadium, and Peters believes extended hours will help keep the pub thriving while adding to the city’s nightlife scene.

The application will be decided by the council’s licensing sub-committee this Wednesday.

Loch Fyne’s Historic George Hotel Saved in £3m Deal

Richard Payne
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Loch Fyne’s Historic George Hotel Saved in £3m Deal

The future of one of Scotland’s most iconic inns has been secured following a £3.05 million rescue deal. The George Hotel in Inveraray, often referred to locally as the Loch Fyne Inn, has been saved from administration — safeguarding both its heritage and 43 local jobs.

A Historic Inn at Risk

Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne, the George Hotel is a 24-bedroom boutique inn set on a one-acre site. It has long been a favourite with visitors to Argyll and the Highlands, known for its character, roaring fires, and warm hospitality.

Earlier this year, however, the hotel’s future looked bleak. Inveraray Inn Ltd, which operated the venue, entered administration in March 2025 amid mounting financial pressures. Begbies Traynor was appointed to oversee the business, sparking fears that one of Scotland’s best-loved inns could be lost for good.

Strong Interest, Fierce Bidding

The administrators launched a marketing campaign that drew expressions of interest from more than 50 parties. For a time, the future of the George Hotel hung in the balance, with potential buyers ranging from national operators to private investors.

In the end, the successful bid came from local hospitality duo Charlie Maclachlan and Sam Wignell, trading as Fyne Hospitality. Their £3.05m offer was accepted, securing the site and ensuring its survival.

New Owners, Fresh Vision

Both Maclachlan and Wignell are no strangers to the Scottish hospitality scene, and their commitment to the George Hotel is rooted in passion for the area.

“The George Hotel is more than just a building — it’s the beating heart of Inveraray,” said Maclachlan.
“Our vision is simple: preserve its character, protect its people, and elevate the experience for everyone who walks through its doors.”

Their immediate priority has been to protect the jobs of all 43 staff, while plans are being made for sympathetic investment to enhance the guest and dining experience without losing the venue’s historic charm.

Why This Matters

The save of the George Hotel is more than a business deal — it’s a victory for community, heritage, and pub culture. Inns like this are woven into the social fabric of towns and villages across the UK. They are where stories are told, families gather, and traditions endure.

Losing the George Hotel would have been a devastating blow for Inveraray. Instead, its rescue offers hope and a reminder of the importance of protecting the country’s historic pubs and inns.

Pub Social Takeaway

The George Hotel’s survival is a reminder that pubs and inns are more than bricks and mortar. They are living landmarks that carry history and bring people together.

As one of Scotland’s best-loved inns embarks on its next chapter, it’s time to raise a glass to its future — and to all those working to keep our historic pubs alive.

Rivington Taproom: A Hidden Gem in the Lancashire Hills

Tom Harrison
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Rivington Taproom: A Hidden Gem in the Lancashire Hills

Tucked away in the stunning countryside near Chorley, Rivington Brewing Co. Taproom has become one of the UK’s must-visit destinations for craft beer lovers. What started as a small independent brewery has grown into a vibrant hub where great beer, community spirit, and breathtaking views all come together.

From Farm to Brewery

Rivington Brewing Co. was founded with a simple idea: to make bold, modern beers in a beautiful rural setting. The brewery is housed on a working farm, giving the taproom a rustic charm that feels worlds away from the bustle of the city.

This unique location has helped the taproom stand out, attracting both locals and visitors from across the UK who are eager to experience great beer in a truly memorable setting.

The Beers

Rivington has built its reputation on hop-forward IPAs and pale ales, but the taproom offers the full spectrum of styles:

  • Never Known Fog Like It – Their flagship New England IPA, juicy, hazy, and packed with tropical fruit flavours.
  • Black Night Sky – A rich and smooth stout, perfect for colder evenings.
  • Seasonal Specials – From fruited sours to strong double IPAs, the brewery regularly experiments with small-batch releases.

The taproom’s rotating taps mean there’s always something new to try, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time fan.

More Than Just Beer

The Rivington Taproom has become more than a place to drink — it’s a social space. The brewery regularly hosts events, from live music and quiz nights to food trucks and beer festivals. These gatherings bring together beer enthusiasts, families, and locals alike, creating a genuine sense of community.

Surrounded by the rolling hills of Rivington, it’s also the perfect stop for walkers and cyclists exploring the area. Many visitors combine a day out in the countryside with a well-earned pint at the taproom.

A Destination for Craft Beer Fans

Over the years, Rivington has built a strong reputation within the UK craft beer scene, often collaborating with other leading breweries. Their taproom has become a destination in its own right, drawing fans from across the country who come not just for the beer, but for the unique experience of drinking it in such a picturesque setting.

Looking Ahead

With craft beer continuing to grow in popularity, the Rivington Taproom is set to play an even bigger role in the North West’s beer culture. Future plans include expanding capacity, hosting more festivals, and introducing new beers that showcase their creativity.

For anyone passionate about beer, community, and countryside, Rivington Taproom is proof that the best pub experiences don’t always happen in the city. Sometimes, they’re found on a farm, surrounded by hills, with a perfectly poured pint in hand.

Ten Marston’s Pubs Recognised at the Great British Pub Awards 2025

Richard Payne
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Ten Marston’s Pubs Recognised at the Great British Pub Awards 2025

Marston’s has plenty to celebrate this year, with ten of its pubs being recognised at the Great British Pub Awards 2025. Known as the “Oscars of the pub industry”, the awards highlight the very best pubs across the UK, recognising those that go above and beyond in their communities, deliver outstanding service, and provide truly memorable experiences for their guests.

The Great British Pub Awards

The annual Great British Pub Awards are considered one of the most respected events in the hospitality calendar. Each year, judges select the country’s top venues across a wide range of categories, from food and drink quality to atmosphere, innovation, and community engagement. For Marston’s, having ten pubs reach finalist status demonstrates both the strength and consistency of their estate.

Marston’s Finalists for 2025

This year’s Marston’s finalists represent a diverse mix of pubs, each with their own character and loyal following:

  • The Old Arcade – Cardiff
  • The High Orchard – Gloucester
  • The Red Lion – Newburgh Village, Parbold
  • The Grapes – Belper
  • The Honeystone – Hunstanton, Norfolk
  • The Manor House of Whittington – Kinver, Stourbridge

Each of these venues has been shortlisted for their ability to combine traditional pub values with modern standards of hospitality. From city-centre boozers to countryside locals, they showcase the breadth and quality within the Marston’s portfolio.

Why This Recognition Matters

For Marston’s, the recognition is not just about national headlines — it’s about acknowledging the vital role pubs play in local communities. These are the places where families gather, friends meet, and important moments are celebrated.

The awards also shine a spotlight on the teams behind the bars, kitchens, and cellars who work tirelessly to deliver exceptional service. At a time when the pub industry continues to face challenges, such achievements highlight the resilience, creativity, and passion that keep British pubs thriving.

Pub Culture at Its Best

From The Old Arcade in Cardiff, known for its lively atmosphere, to The Honeystone in Norfolk, celebrated for its family-friendly charm, Marston’s pubs are proving that tradition and innovation can work hand-in-hand.

This recognition underlines the continuing importance of the Great British pub — not just as a place to drink, but as a cultural institution at the very heart of British life.

Conclusion

The Great British Pub Awards 2025 have once again reminded us why the UK’s pubs remain world-famous. With ten Marston’s pubs among this year’s finalists, it’s clear that the group continues to set high standards across its estate.

Whether you’re dropping in for a pint, a meal, or simply a warm welcome, these recognised pubs represent some of the very best of what the industry has to offer.

Wetherspoons Opens New Pub in Fulham: Walham Green

Tom Harrison
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Wetherspoons Opens New Pub in Fulham: Walham Green

Wetherspoon has officially opened its latest pub in Fulham – and it’s a venue steeped in history.

📍 Address: 472 Fulham Road, Hammersmith & Fulham, SW6 1BY
🚇 Location: Just a minute’s walk from Fulham Broadway station.

The new pub, named Walham Green, is housed inside the Grade II listed former entrance hall of Fulham Broadway Tube Station. The Edwardian baroque-style building was designed by railway architect Harry W. Ford and first opened in 1910.

The station itself originally carried the name Walham Green after the village that once stood in the area. It wasn’t until 1952 that the station was renamed Fulham Broadway.

With Wetherspoon’s trademark affordable pints, food menu, and spacious interiors – combined with one of Fulham’s most distinctive historic landmarks – Walham Green is already being tipped as a must-visit spot for locals and football fans heading to nearby Stamford Bridge. 🍻

Balance Brewing & Blending: The Manchester Brewery Redefining Modern Beer

Pub & Social Editorial Team
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Balance Brewing & Blending: The Manchester Brewery Redefining Modern Beer

Manchester has always been a city with a proud beer heritage, from the industrial revolution’s porter breweries to the modern wave of craft. Among the new generation, Balance Brewing & Blending stands out — a small independent operation with a big vision: to brew beer rooted in tradition but elevated by patience, experimentation, and flavour.

A Brewery with a Difference

Founded by friends Will Harris and James Horrocks, Balance Brewing & Blending doesn’t follow the path of most modern craft breweries. While many focus on fast-turnaround pale ales and IPAs, Balance specialises in beers that take time. Their focus is on mixed fermentation, barrel-aging, and blending — techniques inspired by Belgian lambic brewers but given a distinctly Manchester twist.

This approach means their beers aren’t churned out in weeks, but carefully aged for months or even years before being released. The results are complex, nuanced, and designed for slow drinking and sharing.

What’s in a Name?

The name Balance reflects both their philosophy and their beer. For Will and James, brewing isn’t about chasing extremes — it’s about finding harmony. Whether blending a sharp, tart barrel-aged beer with a softer, rounded one, or balancing malt sweetness with funk and acidity, every decision is guided by equilibrium.

The Beers

Balance’s beers are often released in small, limited batches. Highlights have included:

  • Blended Saison – A farmhouse-style ale aged in oak, combining spice, fruit, and funk.
  • Wild Ale with Fruit – Beers re-fermented with locally sourced fruit such as cherries, raspberries, or damsons, creating vivid colour and layered flavour.
  • Special Collabs – Balance has worked with fellow breweries across the UK, bringing their expertise in blending into unique projects.

Drinkers often compare the beers to fine wine or cider, making them popular with enthusiasts who enjoy complexity and depth.

A Different Pace in a Fast Industry

In today’s beer market, where trends move fast and new releases hit weekly, Balance Brewing & Blending deliberately slows things down. Their model relies on patience, craft, and storytelling. Each release is an event, often paired with tastings at their Manchester base or at specialist bars across the UK.

This slower, artisanal approach has struck a chord with drinkers looking for something beyond the latest hazy IPA or pastry stout.

Building a Community

Balance also champions local connection. From sourcing fruit from nearby farms to hosting intimate tasting sessions, the brewery fosters a sense of community around their beers. They’ve become part of Manchester’s thriving independent drinks culture, standing proudly alongside pubs, bottle shops, and breweries that put the city on the craft beer map.

The Future of Balance

Looking ahead, Balance plans to expand its barrel program, experiment with more fruits and wild yeast strains, and continue developing its reputation as one of the UK’s most innovative small breweries.

For fans of thoughtful, patient brewing, Balance Brewing & Blending represents the best of what craft beer can be: creative, rooted in tradition, and made to be savoured.

Where to watch the 2025 Six Nations in Bournemouth

Ryan Shaw
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Where to watch the 2025 Six Nations in Bournemouth

The George Tapps Pub –

Since we are right round the corner from the beginning of Rugby’s biggest tournament this year, it would be vital to know the best places you can go, in Bournemouth, to enjoy the Six Nations.

  1. George Tapps

Located near the town centre, on Old Christchurch road, George Tapps is famous for hosting matchdays, whether that’s Rugby, Football, or Darts. It is a fantastic place to grab a bite to eat as well as having a drink, alcoholic or non-alcoholic. Inside the pub finds spacious surroundings and many sitting areas, where can see up to 14 TV screens include 3 big screens, creating the best atmosphere on a matchday.

Feel free to book a table on the George Tapps website so you can book you spot to sit on a busy matchday.

The George Tapps Pub

George Tapps can be located at 207-215 Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH1 1JZ

  1. O’Neill’s

O’Neill’s is an original Irish pub which is found just up the road from George Tapps, again near the town centre. O’Neill’s offers their customers a warm Irish welcome and are always known for hosting matchdays, music nights (like their Karaoke Thursdays) and other events that may take place. Food and drinks are always served with a smile to help ease the comfort on a busy matchday.

A projector screen is always used to show matchdays to create the biggest screens possible for the whole pub to see. Other tv’s are placed around the pubs so no customer misses out.

O’Neill’s Bournemouth

O’Neill’s is on 231 Old Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth BH1 1JZ

  1. The Fiveways

Everything you need can be found at Fiveways, amazing customer service, a wide selection of great food and drinks, a beer garden and the ability to watch the biggest games on television, creating that perfect pub atmosphere.

Fiveways is very family friendly and is only a 10-minute car journey away from the town centre.

The Fiveways

You can find Fiveways at 423 Charminster Rd, Bournemouth BH8 9QY

  1. Lark Rise

A more local pub on the list, but one that certainly sparks an awaiting warm welcome. The choice is yours if you’d like to stand by the bar to have a nice chat or to settle down into their comfy chairs with a drink at hand. Regardless of where you are at the Lark Rise, you won’t miss out of the matchday atmosphere.

Lark Rise uses their projector screen to make matchdays visible from all sides of the pub, even if you fancied playing a game of pool or a game of darts whilst the ongoing Six Nations match is taking place.

The Lark Rise

You can find the Lark Rise on Winton high street at 475 Wimborne Rd, Winton, Bournemouth BH9 2AN

  1. The Richmond Arms

Finally on this list, The Richmond Arms offers their customers and all rugby fans to ‘Settle in for the Six Nations’ as they will be showing every single game for all 6 weeks. Feel free to take on their new Lunch deals Monday-Friday 12pm-3pm, you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks both indoor and outdoor (depending on the weather.)

TVs are located in many areas around the pub playing the biggest sporting actions, so you won’t miss out on a thing.

The Richmond Arms

The Richmond Arms can be found at 53 Charminster Rd, Bournemouth BH8 8UH

The Six Nations begins on January 31st and will go on until March 15th.

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