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Hidden Away In The New Forest: The Family Brewery Turning A Former Pig Farm Into A Craft Beer Destination

By
Jack Turner
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Freshly poured pint of PIG BEER craft lager in the New Forest tap room Brockenhurst Hampshire
A fresh pint of PIG BEER served at the family-run New Forest brewery tap room in Brockenhurst

Hidden away on the outskirts of Brockenhurst, just off the road towards Lymington, PIG BEER is not your average brewery.

Based at Hops House in the heart of the New Forest, this independent family-run microbrewery has turned a former pig farm into a proper local beer destination — complete with its own tap room, beer garden, brewery shop, street food, live music and even brewery tours.

The story behind PIG BEER is simple but brilliant: two brothers and a cousin, all sharing a surname and a love of good beer, decided to create their own brewery on a former pig farm in the New Forest. The result is a brand that feels properly local, properly rustic and completely different from the mass-produced lagers dominating pub taps across the country.

The brewery describes itself as an independent family-run craft brewery, serving freshly brewed local beer from its New Forest base. Visitors can drink at the tap room, take bottles and mini-kegs away from the shop, or order online for delivery and click and collect.

What makes PIG BEER stand out is not just the beer — it is the whole experience. Their tap room has a heated stretch tent and beer garden, with their own beers on the bar alongside snacks, guest street food vendors and live music. Dogs are welcome, muddy boots are welcome, cyclists are welcome, and no booking is needed.

That gives it the feel of a brewery built for real people rather than just beer experts. It is the sort of place you can walk to after exploring the New Forest, cycle to on a sunny afternoon, or visit for a pint, pizza and live music at the weekend.

There is also a strong sustainability angle. PIG BEER says it uses renewable electricity, carbon-offset gas, reclaimed materials for bars and furniture, reusable cups where possible, and a 20,000-litre grey water harvesting tank to reuse safe rinse water and rainfall for irrigation.

The beer list has plenty to explore. On Untappd, PIG BEER is listed as a microbrewery in Brockenhurst with 15 beers recorded, including SESSION, STORM, BLAK, SAUBER, CHERY, NEW FOREST LAGER, RUST, SIMCOE and its 12% sparkling beer styles such as Standing Hat and Chorus.

The New Forest Lager is described as a crisp, clean Munich Helles-style lager, while SESSION is a light 4% session IPA using Citra and Prima Donna hops. STORM brings a bolder IPA profile, while BLAK is a smooth milk stout with cocoa and dark fruit notes.

Perhaps the most unusual part of the range is the sparkling beer. Standing Hat and Chorus are both listed as 12% Bière de Champagne / Bière Brut styles, bringing champagne-style fizz and refinement into beer form.

PIG BEER has also become part of the wider New Forest drinks scene. The official New Forest tourism site describes Pig Beer as a newer addition to the local scene, brewed on a family-run smallholding just outside Brockenhurst, and part of the area’s growing independent brewery culture.

For Pub Social, this is exactly the sort of brewery that shows why local beer matters. It is not just about what is in the glass. It is about the place, the people, the landscape, the events, the dogs under the table, the muddy boots, the weekend food trucks and the idea that a brewery can become a proper community destination.

In a world where many drinkers are only just discovering that some “continental” favourites are brewed much closer to home than they thought, places like PIG BEER offer something genuinely rooted in their surroundings.

A former pig farm. A family brewery. A New Forest beer garden. Fresh local beer poured metres from where it is made.

That is a proper pint story.

Brits shocked as ‘continental’ pints like Birra Moretti and Madri revealed to be brewed in the UK

By
Jack Turner
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Thousands of British pub-goers are rethinking what’s in their glass after discovering that some of the UK’s most popular “continental” lagers aren’t actually brewed abroad at all.

Brands like Birra Moretti and Madrí Excepcional have built their reputation on European heritage, premium positioning, and the idea of a pint poured straight from the heart of Italy or Spain.

But the reality is a little closer to home.

Despite their continental branding, these beers are widely brewed right here in the UK — with Birra Moretti produced in places like Manchester, and Madri brewed in Tadcaster, Yorkshire.

For many drinkers, it’s come as a surprise. After all, the marketing, branding, and even the names themselves lean heavily into their European roots. From the imagery on the pumps to the stories behind the labels, everything suggests a beer imported from overseas.

And it’s worked.

Research has shown that a large portion of UK drinkers are willing to pay more for what they believe to be “premium continental lager”, often choosing it over British alternatives — even when the pint in question hasn’t travelled very far at all.

That £6 pint suddenly feels a little different when you realise it’s been brewed just a few hours up the road.

That doesn’t mean the quality is any different. Brewers insist that these beers are made to the same recipes and standards wherever they are produced, maintaining consistency across global markets.

But for those now questioning authenticity, attention has started to shift toward beers that are still brewed entirely in their country of origin.

One standout example is Budweiser Budvar — a Czech lager with a very different approach.

Unlike many global brands, Budvar is brewed exclusively in the Czech Republic and remains owned by the Czech government. The brewery has maintained a strict commitment to producing every drop in its home country, using local ingredients and traditional methods.

According to head brewer Adam Brož, authenticity isn’t just about branding — it’s about geography, ingredients, and even the physical layout of the brewery itself.

From the natural water sources to the specific brewing equipment, he argues that true authenticity can’t simply be replicated elsewhere.

It’s a philosophy that’s becoming increasingly rare in a globalised beer market, where brands often prioritise scale and distribution over origin.

Meanwhile, companies behind beers like Moretti and Madri maintain that their products stay true to their roots, even when brewed outside their original country.

A spokesperson for Heineken UK has previously stated that Birra Moretti is brewed globally using the same recipe and ingredients as its Italian counterpart.

Similarly, Molson Coors describes Madri as a fusion of British brewing expertise and Spanish influence, created in collaboration with Madrid-based brewers.

For many drinkers, it ultimately comes down to what matters most — taste, price, or authenticity.

But one thing is certain: more people are now paying closer attention to where their pint really comes from.

Midlands Pub Draws Line as Kids ‘Running Riot’ Sparks Tough New Rule

By
Daniel Price
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A pint of beer held in a hand inside a pub, showing golden ale and a frothy head.
Enjoying a fresh pint at the local pub.

A Midlands pub has sparked debate after taking a firm stance on children in the venue — warning parents they could be refused service if youngsters are left to “run riot”.

The pub, Mitchell’s, says children are welcome — but only if they’re properly supervised.

In a blunt message shared with customers, management made it clear the venue is not a crèche, and staff will step in if behaviour gets out of hand.

Parents who allow their children to roam freely, disturb other customers, or ignore house rules could find themselves refused an alcoholic drink altogether.

The move comes after ongoing issues with noise, disruption, and concerns around safety — particularly where licensing laws are involved.

Clear rules have now been reinforced inside the pub:

  • No under-16s on the pool table
  • No under-18s using the dart board
  • Strictly no access to gambling machines for anyone under 18

Management say the decision isn’t about banning families — but about protecting the atmosphere for everyone.

Customers visiting for a quiet pint shouldn’t have to deal with uncontrolled behaviour, and the pub insists it’s simply about respect.

At the same time, the landlord acknowledged the realities of parenting, saying they understand that children can sometimes get upset — but there’s a clear difference between that and letting things spiral.

The situation has now triggered wider discussion across social media, with many backing the pub’s stance — while others argue pubs should remain family-friendly spaces.

With more venues trying to balance welcoming families while maintaining a traditional pub environment, it raises a bigger question across the UK:

Where should the line be drawn?

Tesco Rumours Swirl Around Former Nottinghamshire Pub Site

By
Daniel Price
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Screenshot

A former pub site in Nottinghamshire could soon be facing a major transformation, as rumours grow that supermarket giant Tesco is eyeing up the location.

The site, which once served as a local pub in Arnold, has been sitting unused, sparking speculation among residents about what could replace it. Now, talk of a potential Tesco development is gaining traction — and it’s dividing opinion.

Locals have taken to social media to share their views, with some welcoming the convenience of a new supermarket, while others fear the loss of another community space once centred around pub culture.

The closure of pubs across the UK has been a growing concern in recent years, with many buildings left vacant or repurposed for housing, retail, or other commercial use. For many communities, these venues were more than just places to drink — they were social hubs, meeting points, and part of local identity.

While no official confirmation has been made, the possibility of a Tesco moving in has raised fresh questions about the future of former pub sites and how they are redeveloped.

Residents are now waiting to see whether plans will be submitted, and if so, what that could mean for the area moving forward.

Longer Pub Hours Linked to Rise in Crime and Ambulance Call-Outs

By
Daniel Price
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Extending pub opening hours into the early hours could be putting added strain on emergency services, according to new research.

A study led by the University of Glasgow has found that longer licensing hours in Aberdeen were linked to noticeable increases in both crime and alcohol-related ambulance call-outs.

Between March 2017 and October 2020, 38 pubs and bars in Aberdeen were granted permission to serve alcohol until 03:00. During that period, researchers recorded an 11.4% rise in ambulance call-outs on weekend nights and an 8.5% increase in reported crime.

The findings come as cities across Scotland consider extended opening hours again, including during major events like the World Cup.

The research, published in BMJ Public Health, concluded there was a clear connection between extended drinking hours and increased pressure on emergency services.

Dr Md Nurnabi Sheikh, from the University of Glasgow’s School of Health and Wellbeing, said:

“Our findings in Aberdeen demonstrate a clear link between additional opening hours and increased negative outcomes.”

He added that the scale of the issue may depend on how many venues are allowed to stay open later — and what type of venues they are.

Different Story in Glasgow

Interestingly, the same study found no significant impact in Glasgow after 10 nightclubs were allowed to stay open until 04:00 in 2019.

Researchers believe the difference comes down to scale and control. In Glasgow, only a small number of venues were granted extended hours, and strict safety measures were in place. In Aberdeen, the larger number of pubs involved and longer extensions appear to have had a stronger effect.

However, even in Glasgow, frontline services reported increased pressure during late-night hours.

Shift in Peak Drinking Problems

The study also found that peak times for alcohol-related ambulance call-outs in Aberdeen shifted later into the night — moving from between midnight and 01:00 to between 01:00 and 02:00.

Call-outs were significantly higher among men and those under 45, reflecting wider trends around higher-risk drinking behaviour in younger groups.

Calls for Tighter Control

Professor Niamh Fitzgerald from the University of Stirling, who led the wider study, warned that large-scale extensions could lead to increased harm.

“Our study shows that local authorities need greater powers to control the number and type of venues that are allowed to open later at night,” she said.

Authorities Defend Current Approach

Despite the findings, Aberdeen City Council said it has “robust” measures in place to manage the night-time economy, working closely with Police Scotland and local businesses.

Officials say that for major events like the World Cup, appropriate policing and safety plans will be implemented to handle increased demand.

The Scottish government has also confirmed that decisions on licensing hours remain with local licensing boards, supported by national guidance.

The debate now continues: while extended hours may boost the hospitality sector, the research suggests they could also come with a cost — particularly when applied on a larger scale.

Village Pub at Risk as Community Fights to Keep It Alive

By
Daniel Price
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A village pub is facing an uncertain future, with locals now rallying together in a bid to save what many describe as the heart of their community.

Residents say the pub is more than just a place to drink — it’s where friendships are built, events are held, and the village comes together. Without it, they fear the area could lose one of its last remaining social hubs.

Concerns have grown after uncertainty around the pub’s future ownership and long-term viability. Like many pubs across the UK, it has been hit by rising costs, changing customer habits, and wider pressures on the hospitality industry.

Locals have now begun organising efforts to protect it, with discussions around fundraising, community ownership, and potential applications for protective status such as an Asset of Community Value (ACV).

Supporters argue that losing the pub would have a lasting impact, particularly in rural areas where alternative meeting places are limited or non-existent.

Campaigners say the pub plays a vital role in hosting events, supporting local groups, and providing a space where people of all ages can connect — something they believe cannot be replaced.

The situation highlights a growing national trend, with communities across the UK increasingly stepping in to try and save their local pubs from closure or redevelopment.

For now, the future of this pub remains uncertain — but one thing is clear: the community isn’t ready to let it go without a fight.

Hidden Below Holborn: The Wetherspoon Cellar Bar Most People Don’t Know Exists

By
Daniel Price
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Right in the middle of London, beneath the busy streets of Holborn, there’s a pub space that many people walk straight past without ever realising it’s there.

The Penderel’s Oak is a well-known Wetherspoon venue — but what a lot of people don’t know is that it hides a full cellar bar downstairs.

Tucked beneath the main pub, the underground space offers a completely different feel. Think exposed brickwork, arched ceilings, and a quieter, more tucked-away atmosphere compared to the busy upstairs bar.

It’s the kind of place you stumble across once and then keep coming back to — especially if you’re looking to escape the crowds without actually leaving central London.

The pub itself sits on historic ground, named after Penderel’s Oak — the tree associated with King Charles II’s escape after the Battle of Worcester. While the upstairs serves the usual busy city crowd, the cellar bar feels like a bit of a hidden secret.

For many, it’s a reminder that even the most familiar pubs can still surprise you — especially in a city like London where history and hidden spaces sit right under your feet.

East London’s Best Pub Gardens to Soak Up the Sun

By
Pub & Social Editorial Team
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When the sun finally shows up in London, there’s only one place people want to be — a pub garden. And in East London, you’re spoilt for choice.

From hidden courtyards to buzzing rooftop terraces, some pubs have turned their outdoor spaces into proper summer hotspots. Here are five of the best pub gardens in East London to make the most of the warm weather.

The Star by Hackney Downs

A favourite in Hackney, this pub offers a lively beer garden that feels like a mini festival when the sun’s out. Expect street food, DJs, and a proper social atmosphere that draws big crowds throughout the day and into the evening.

The Culpeper

Right in Spitalfields, this one stands out thanks to its rooftop garden. It’s not just a place to drink — they actually grow ingredients up there, which are used in the kitchen below. Great views, great food, and a slightly more laid-back vibe.

Queen of Hoxton

If you’re after something a bit different, this Shoreditch venue is known for its themed rooftop spaces. Whether it’s winter igloos or summer beach vibes, it’s always changing — and always busy when the sun hits.

People’s Park Tavern

Overlooking Victoria Park, this pub has one of the best locations going. Its large outdoor area is perfect for a relaxed pint after a walk, and it’s a go-to spot for locals when the weather’s good.

The Crown & Shuttle

Tucked away near Shoreditch High Street, this pub has a spacious beer garden that feels like a hidden escape from the city. Big benches, plenty of space, and a proper pub feel make it ideal for groups.

With temperatures rising and longer days ahead, these spots are likely to fill up fast. Whether you’re after a chilled pint in the sun or a full-on day session, East London’s pub gardens deliver.

Fossil Fuel by Isle of Purbeck Brewery – A Jurassic Stout That Packs a Punch

By
Jack Turner
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The Drink

  • Type: Stout
  • ABV: 5.4%
  • Brewery: Isle of Purbeck Brewery
  • Origin: Isle of Purbeck

First Impressions


Jet black in the glass with a rich, creamy tan head. Straight away, you get roasted aromas — coffee, dark chocolate, and a hint of smokiness. It looks exactly how a proper stout should.

Taste Test

This is a bold, full-bodied stout with real depth. Roasted malt leads the way, backed up by notes of bitter chocolate and espresso. There’s a subtle sweetness underneath, but it’s well balanced with a dry finish that stops it becoming heavy.

It’s smooth for its strength, but make no mistake — this isn’t a light session drink. It’s one to sit with and enjoy.

Pub Scorecard

  • Drinkability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
  • Flavour: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
  • Session Potential: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

The Verdict

Fossil Fuel is a proper traditional stout with character. Rich, warming, and full of flavour, it’s perfect for colder nights or when you want something with a bit more substance than your average pint.

If you like Guinness, this is a step up in intensity — more flavour, more body, and a proper craft edge.

Where You’ll Find It

Primarily available in Dorset pubs and stockists linked to Isle of Purbeck Brewery, as well as bottled online.

Village Lifeline Saved: Wiltshire Pub Granted Protected Status

By
Daniel Price
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The only pub in a quiet Wiltshire hamlet has been given vital legal protection, securing its future as the heart of the community.

The New Inn at Coate, a characterful village pub known for its mural-covered exterior, has officially been granted Asset of Community Value (ACV) status following an application by Bishops Cannings Parish Council.

Owned by Wadworth, the pub is far more than just a place for a pint. It features a traditional skittle alley, a covered front courtyard, a large beer garden, and even caravan and campsite facilities — making it a true hub for locals and visitors alike.

But what makes The New Inn truly special is its role in village life.

In the successful application to Wiltshire Council, parish clerk Alison Kent highlighted just how central the pub is to the community.

“The New Inn is the only pub in the village and serves as the only gathering place for Coate residents,” she said.

“There are no other public community meeting spaces within Coate.”

The pub plays host to virtually every local event imaginable — from village days and produce shows to quiz nights, skittles leagues, book groups, cribbage matches, and race nights. It has also been at the centre of major national celebrations at a local level, including events for VE Day, the Coronation of King Charles III, and the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II.

Seasonal gatherings such as summer picnics, sports days, and charity events have all taken place within its grounds, reinforcing its role as the beating heart of the hamlet.

The newly granted ACV status now gives the community a powerful safeguard: if the pub is ever put up for sale, local residents will have the right to bid to purchase it and keep it running for future generations.

In an era where rural pubs continue to face mounting pressures, The New Inn’s protection is a significant win — not just for Coate, but as a reminder of the vital role pubs play in holding communities together.

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