Days Out in Yorkshire: Black Sheep Brewery

Nestled in the pretty village of Masham, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, the brewery created its first beer in 1992 after being built up by Paul Theakston, whose family has been brewing in the area for six generations.

Now, more than 20 years later, Black Sheep Brewery continues to produce some of Yorkshire’s most loved cask, keg and bottled beers - and makes for a brilliant day out.

Take a ‘shepherded’ tour of the traditional brewhouse, where you’ll learn about the history of Black Sheep and how they carefully select their ingredients, before seeing the delicious beer bubbling away in the fermenting rooms.

While on your way round, keep a lookout for the traditional Yorkshire Square fermenting vessels, which were developed 200 years ago, and help give the beers their distinctive taste.

Of course, no tour would be complete without trying a few samples, and you’ll be spoilt for choice at the brewery’s aptly named Bistro and Baa…r where you’ll find classics like Black Sheep Best Bitter and Black Sheep Ale, to more adventurous brews, such as the dark and powerful Imperial Russian Stout.

For the non-beer drinkers, there are plenty of wines, ciders, spirits and soft drinks on offer, as well as a fantastic food menu featuring Yorkshire favourites, like beef and Riggweler ale pie, beer battered fish and chips and local pork pie with Black Sheep Ale chutney.

Before you leave, make sure you pay a visit to the shop to stock up on sheepy gifts, from cuddly toys to branded clothing, as well as a crate of your favourite beer.

FACTFILE

Address: Wellgarth, Masham,

Opening times: Mon to Weds 10am-5pm, Thurs to Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-5pm. Closed Mon and Thurs evenings until March 7.

Brewery tour admission: Adults £8.50, senior and students £6.95, children £4.95, family ticket £22.95

Car parking: Free on-site

Web: blacksheepbrewery.com

Telephone: 01765 689227

More: www.yorkshire.com