This region of Scotland was once comparable to Burton-on-Trent south of the border for its beer production. The local water and the abundant fields of crops made for excellent ale production and barrels were shipped off around the globe in the 19th century, but alas most of these breweries are long gone.
Just a few miles north of Stirling, and 5 minutes by train, is Bridge of Allan, where I braved the rain to search out the Allanwater Brewery, tucked down a side-street behind the Queens Hotel. This is a great bar/brewpub, creating ales under the name Tinpot Brewery. It's atmospheric, dimly-lit and adorned with hundreds of old bottles on shelves around the wall and the staff are friendly, keen to talk brewing and dish out some tasters. Around the corner from the bar is the brew-kit on display, plus shelves of bottles to buy. There were 6 ales available on my visit, plus a couple of ciders. Pity that I'd just missed the Chilli Stout. Well worth that detour from Stirling for a visit.
Right....onwards north towards Aberdeen beer festival, via a shop to get a waterproof jacket (which will ensure that the weather brightens up as soon as I part with my money).
Allanwater Brewhouse, Queens Lane, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4NU, www.bridgeofallan.co.uk
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