While the Brits certainly don’t shy away from a good pint of lager, there’s a lot more variety of beers that are popular in the British Isles than many people realize. So today, we’ll be taking a closer look at a handful of quintessential British beer varieties that should absolutely be on your radar—the types of beers that would have the new king himself nodding in approval.
So before you write off Blighty (don’t worry, I had to look this reference up, too) as just a “lager land,” here are a few more names you should be slurring after a night at the pub: Porters, Stouts, and Bitters.
To quote the great Winston Churchill: “I have taken more out of alcohol than alcohol has taken out of me.” Armed with that cunning bulldog spirit, channel your inner Churchill, and let’s carry on:
Popular Types of British Beer
(P.S. Looking for the India Pale Ale? Learn more about British IPAs here!)
Porters
Imagine stepping into a gritty London pub in the 18th century. What beer would you likely find in the hands of the hardworking rabble? None other than the mighty Porter.
Back then, they offered a much-needed respite from the hardships of the Industrial Revolution. Today, they offer a much-needed respite from the hardships of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Originally brewed for laborers (and named after the porters who used to carry heavy loads around London in the 18th century) porters are smooth, dark, and satisfying. They’re like the beer version of a mocha latte—rich in flavors of roasted malt, chocolate, and coffee.
Stouts
In the early 18th century, a stronger, more robust version of the Porter style emerged—aptly named the Stout. Stouts boast intense flavor profiles with notes of roasted barley, coffee, and dark chocolate. They’re often served with a creamy, velvety foam head that often doubles as a mustache for adventurous drinkers.
If you’re looking for a beer that’ll stand up to your taste buds, Stouts are the way to go. But be careful: these beasts are high in ABV, and an Imperial Stout can knock you off your feet like a strong gust of wind on the cliffs of Dover.
Bitters
Bitters are the quintessential British ale. In a land where tea reigns supreme, Bitters hold a special place in the hearts (well, pint glasses) of the locals. Compared to lagers, these ales are known for moderate alcohol content, balanced flavors, and generally refreshing character.
Despite their name, English bitters are great for those who like their brews with a touch of bitterness, without venturing into the realms of extreme bitter or heavy flavors.
Bitters come in various strengths, from session ales you can enjoy all day long, to stronger versions that pack more potent ABV.
Picking Your Poison
How do you decide which of these iconic British beer styles is right for you? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- If you like full-bodied dark beers, with a hint of bitter, go for a Porter.
- Prefer intense flavors and a bold, slow-sipping drinking experience? Stouts are calling your name.
- If you prefer a more easygoing, refreshing beer that goes down smoothly and isn’t too bitter, ironically, “bitters” are probably your best bet. Grab a pint and let the conversation flow.
Whether you’re drawn to the dark depths of a Porter, the boldness of a Stout, or the easy-drinking charm of a Bitter, the landscape of British beer styles is as varied as their weather patterns. (Actually, it’s way more varied.) They certainly know how to keep calm and carry on… pouring.
Now that we’ve covered 3 of the most popular British beer styles, why not dive deeper into the world of beer with Hops Hunters? Check out our comprehensive information about different beers and our candid beer reviews.
