Uley Brewery is a family-run brewery located in the heart of the Cotswolds. It has been brewing real ales for over 35 years, using only the finest ingredients. The brewery is known for its traditional brewing methods and its commitment to quality.

Uley Brewery is a small, independent brewery that is passionate about making great beer. Using a range of traditional brewing methods, they’re able to create a range of beers that are full of flavour and character. The brewery is also committed to using only the finest ingredients, including Cotswold spring water, Maris Otter malt, and Fuggles hops.

A Rich History

Built into the flanks of Uley Bury on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment, it was originally built by Samuel Price in 1833 on the site of the lower village spring outlet. This was during the reign of William IV, when Uley was filled with woollen mills, a dusty, thirsty trade with a huge appetite for beer.

The Price family started brewing and malting in the 17th century. The Ayliffe family took over in the 18th century. Brewing and malting continued until the end of the 19th century, when the woollen mill trade collapsed. The brew house and cellars had a long history of use. After brewing beer, they were used for farming and even as kennels for dogs. In 1984, Chas Wright, a local beer wholesaler, got the chance to reopen the brewery.

After a winter of hard work, Uley Brewery was ready to open in 1985. They had new stainless steel vessels, designed by the owner and made locally. These vessels are still used today! The first Uley pint was poured on March 1st, 1985, at the Red Lion in Arlingham. At the end of 2018, Chas passed the torch to Martin Brooks, who continues to uphold the brewery’s traditional values.

A Unique Location

Uley Brewery is situated in the Cotswold town of Dursley (GL11 5TB). The Cotswoldian springs providing the perfect source of water for brewing. The brewery itself is a charming tower brewery with a vaulted cellar, adding to its unique character. The most important ingredient in Uley Brewery’s beers is the pure Cotswold spring water.

Brewers call water “liquor”. The malt for the beer is made at Warminster Maltings in Wiltshire. This is one of the few places in the West Country that still makes malt the traditional way. The malt is delivered to the back of the brewery.

Uley Brewery is lucky to have a traditional tower brewery built into the side of Uley Bury Hill. The brewery uses two types of malt: Maris Otter Pale Ale Malt and Roasted Crystal Malt. These malts are crushed and into the grist hopper.