Woodchester Mansion and Uley Brewery are joining together this October for a rare opportunity to explore the Mansion’s historic brewery. A cask ale tasting will follow, led by Uley head brewer Ken Lush.
Taking place on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October, the event will give just 12 guests per session access to parts of the mansion that are not included in its regular visitor route.
The event brings together two distinctive strands of Gloucestershire’s history. The story of Uley Brewery began in 1833, 24 years before construction of Woodchester Mansion commenced. Today, Uley continues to brew traditional ales by hand, using water from its own Cotswold spring. Both are examples of a commitment to craftsmanship and tradition.
Guests will begin with a guided exploration of the mansion’s servants’ quarters and brewery areas, hearing how brewing formed part of life behind the scenes at a Victorian country house. The tour will be followed the tasting. Guests will sample six Uley beers alongside a special brew, while Ken shares his knowledge of traditional brewing, ingredients, and the character of cask-conditioned ale.
“The brewery and servants’ quarters reveal a side of Woodchester that most visitors never see,” said Rachael Merrett, from Woodchester Mansion. “Because access is so limited, this is a particularly special opportunity to explore how the mansion would have worked behind the scenes.
“Bringing Uley Brewery into that story allows us to connect Woodchester’s brewing past with a local brewing tradition that remains very much alive.”
Ken added: “Woodchester’s brewery offers a fascinating glimpse into the role beer once played in the everyday life of a large country house. Uley’s own story began before the mansion was built, so it feels very fitting to bring the two local histories together, and to finish the afternoon by sharing some traditional cask ale.”
The tours and tastings take place at 3pm on the two days. Each session lasts approximately 90 minutes and is limited to 12
guests. Tickets cost £45 per person and include the guided tour and beer tasting. Visitors may also explore the remainder of Woodchester Mansion before the event begins.
Book at woodchestermansion.org.uk
