“The Leeds Brewery” was established in 2007 by former local radio presenter Michael Brothwell. The brewery produces 150,000 pints of beer weekly, equivalent to approximately 85,000 liters. From its inception, the company focused on crafting exclusively aromatic and delicious beers, quickly winning the loyalty of many enthusiasts. Below is a detailed account of its story. Next on leeds1.one.
Founding and Early Operations
In June 2007, Michael Brothwell and Sam Moss, university friends, decided to establish a brewery in Leeds. Michael, previously a presenter at “BBC Radio York,” joined Sam in creating a selection of permanent and seasonal cask ales for beer enthusiasts. The beer was distributed directly to shops and through a network of wholesale distributors. Leedsbrewery.co.uk.
An interesting fact: In 2008, the brewery engaged Leeds United football fans in naming a new beer through an online poll. The winning name, “Radebeer,” honored the legendary Leeds United player Lucas Radebe. For every pint sold, 10 pence was donated to the club’s transfer fund, making the beer a popular choice among fans and further boosting the brewery’s reputation.
“The Leeds Brewery” Products
Located in a business estate in Beeston, on the outskirts of Leeds, the brewery operated a 20-barrel plant. It produced a range of beers, including:
- “Leeds Pale”
- “Leeds Best”
- “Yorkshire Gold”
- “Midnight Bell”
The “Midnight Bell” received notable recognition in 2007, winning “Best New Brewery Beer” at the Peterborough Beer Festival and a gold award at the “SIBA” competition for dark cask ales. The brewery’s beers typically ranged in strength from 3.7% to 4.8%.
Brewery-Owned Pubs
“The Leeds Brewery” owned seven pubs in Leeds, a small craft brewery at “The Brewery Tap,” and two pubs in York. In 2016, these establishments were sold to “Camerons Brewery,” the largest independent brewery in Northeast England, founded in 1865 by John William Cameron in Stranton, Hartlepool. Camerons has an impressive brewing capacity of 1.5 million hectoliters.
The brewery opened its first pubs outside Leeds in 2013, including “Duke of York” and “The Eagle and Child,” both situated in central York.
Sale of “The Leeds Brewery” Brand to “Kirkstall Brewery”
In January 2023, “The Leeds Brewery” brand was acquired by “Kirkstall Brewery.” The original company ceased trading, but its legacy lives on within “Kirkstall Brewery,” where its popular beer varieties continue to be brewed.
The transition has allowed “Kirkstall Brewery” to maintain the high standards set by “The Leeds Brewery.” One of its founders, Sam Moss, expressed satisfaction with the brand’s continued development under “Kirkstall Brewery.” Managing the accounts of “The Leeds Brewery” within its new parent company is now overseen by Rob Warriner.
Customer Feedback on Brewery Products
Customers have praised the brewery’s beers, especially “Leeds Best,” for their exceptional quality and diverse flavors. The brewery’s meticulous adherence to production standards ensured its continued success over the years. Many customers associate “The Leeds Brewery” with joy and camaraderie, enjoying its beers while watching football matches or attending local events.
“The Leeds Brewery” became one of the leading enterprises in Leeds and a beloved institution among locals. The brewery mastered both the production and distribution of top-tier beers, integrating itself into the cultural fabric of Leeds. Its beers have become a staple during sports events and social gatherings, cementing its place as a vital part of the city’s leisure activities.