Eden River Brew Co.

The brewery sits just outside Penrith, a proper working operation where you can actually watch beer being made rather than just drink the finished product. Eden River Brew Co. does what a lot of smaller breweries do well - keeps things unpretentious and focused on the craft. You'll find their beers in local pubs across Cumbria, but coming to the source means you can see where it happens and often grab a pint or two in their taproom while you're at it.

It's the sort of place that appeals to anyone who wants a break from the standard tourist trail. Families with older kids who don't mind hanging around while adults enjoy a beer will find it works as a pit stop, though it's not exactly a full afternoon's entertainment. Serious hop enthusiasts and anyone interested in small-scale production will get more out of a visit, especially if you time it right and chat with the team about what they're brewing.

You'll want to check their website for opening hours before you head over - details are thin on the ground. Admission is usually free, though you'll obviously spend money on whatever you drink. It pairs well with the broader Penrith area if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Lowther or Crossfells, both within a few miles. Worth a detour if you're into beer, less so if you're just passing through.