A Pint-Sized Adventure: Touring Mauldons Brewery in Suffolk
The article reflects a gifted experience, thanks to Mauldons and Bloxham PR.
A Brew with a View: My Tour of Mauldons Brewery in Suffolk
When the sun comes out in Suffolk, the last place you might think to visit is an industrial estate—but hear me out.
On a hot weekend recently, I found myself walking past corrugated steel buildings and warehouse doors to arrive at Mauldons Brewery—a hidden gem tucked away in Sudbury. It’s an attractive building on the outside, but what’s inside is where the magic happens. Because what I discovered was not just how beer is made, but how it’s crafted—with heart, history, and a fair bit of hops.
The tour was led by none other than Steve Birch, Mauldons’ head brewer, who has been with the company for an incredible 42 years. Steve is the kind of person who makes you fall in love with the story before you even taste the product. With every step of the tour, his knowledge and passion flowed like the beer itself. He wasn't just showing us around; he was inviting us into a legacy.
So, how exactly is beer made?
If, like me, you’ve ever nodded politely while someone throws around words like “mash tun” or “wort,” fear not. Steve broke it all down beautifully, and I’m here to pass on a more condensed, step by approachable step:
Malting – Barley is soaked and allowed to germinate, then dried in a kiln.
Mashing – The malted barley is mixed with hot water in a large vessel (the mash tun), turning the starches into sugars.
Lautering – The liquid (called wort) is separated from the grain.
Boiling – The wort is boiled and hops are added, which give beer its bitterness and aroma.
Fermentation – Yeast is added, which turns the sugars into alcohol.
Conditioning – The beer is left to mature and develop its flavours.
Packaging – Finally, it’s bottled, canned, or kegged—ready to be enjoyed.
More Than Just Beer: A Family Legacy in Every Pint
What struck me most about Mauldons—beyond the rich, malty aromas and the clink of pint glasses—was the heart behind it all. This isn’t a faceless brand or a slick mass-market operation. Mauldons is a small, family-run brewery with soul, rooted in tradition and driven by passion.
The team here may be small—just four brewers—but don’t let that fool you. Together, they craft and ship out an impressive 15,000 pints a week. In the grand world of brewing, that’s not huge. But when you realise that’s the work of just a handful of dedicated hands, it’s honestly remarkable.
And here’s a fun—and honestly, pretty inspiring—fact: Mauldons was originally founded all the way back in 1795 by a woman named Anna Maria Mauldon. At a time when women were rarely seen in business, let alone running breweries, she was already forging her own path. The brewery was later passed down through the family, and that sense of heritage is still alive today. It’s a story of quiet strength, tradition, and real craft—and it makes every pint feel that little bit more special.
That’s what makes a visit here feel so special. You’re not just touring a brewery—you’re stepping into a story. One shaped by care, craft, and continuity.
Tasting Time!
After the brewing lesson, we were treated to a tasting of Mauldons beers, ranging from light and citrusy to deep and malty. If you're thinking beer isn't for you, this is the part that might change your mind. Each beer had its own character, and with Steve’s guidance, I found myself noticing subtle notes I’d never picked up before—spices, caramel, even chocolate.
Yes, beer can be elegant.
And yes, I left with a full case under my arm, pint glasses, and plans to come back with friends.
Why You Should Go Visit
Let’s be real: breweries are still often seen as masculine spaces. But this tour felt welcoming, fun, and full of personality. If you're looking for something a little different to do with girlfriends (or solo!), a brewery tour is a novel and surprisingly charming way to spend an afternoon. You’ll learn something new, taste something unexpected, and leave with a deeper appreciation for what goes into that pint.
So next time you find yourself in Suffolk and want a break from the usual vineyard or café visit, head over to Mauldons. It might not be the prettiest location, but the warmth inside more than makes up for it. Plus, who doesn’t love going home with a souvenir you can actually drink?
If You Go: Mauldons Brewery Tour
📍Location: Mauldons Brewery, Church Field Road Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk
🕰️ Tours: Best to book ahead! They offer small-group tours led by expert brewers (check their website or call for times).
🍻 Tasting: Included! Sample a range of their signature beers, from crisp golden ales to rich stouts.
🎁 Bonus: You can buy bottles (or whole cases!) to take home afterward.
👟 Tip: Wear comfy shoes—it’s a working brewery.
💡 Fun Fact: Mauldons is Suffolk’s oldest brewer, with a history stretching back to 1795.
