Breweries throughout Kawarthas Northumberland not only invite you to experience the heritage of local brewing but also welcome you to explore some unique, heritage buildings. Here are some of the most unique brewing locations you can pair with a pint.
History is alive and on tap at this brewery. Located inside the 150-year-old C.L. Bakery Building, the Pie Eyed Monk/Lindsay Brewing Company is also right across the street from the iconic Lindsay Fire Hall, which was built in 1902. Pie Eyed Monk Brewery is home to a 7-barrel brew house and they are the first restaurant in Lindsay to boast an authentic Italian wood-fired pizza oven.
Have you been to church lately? Founded in 2000 by brewmaster John Graham, Church-Key was the first microbrewery in Northumberland. John has been an influential figure in the craft brew scene in Ontario. After working at Amsterdam Brewing Co. in Toronto, John purchased a 1878 Methodist Church on the outskirts of Campbellford.
He had the building beautifully restored, protecting the original architecture and stained glass windows, and incorporating the existing structure into how the brewery is designed. John’s also created a brewing process that is energy-efficient and draws on solar energy while re-using as much heat as possible. Church-Key is well-known for its aptly-named “Holy Smoke,” an award-winning peat-smoked Scotch Ale. John brews a few staple and award-winning ales, ranging from the flagship deep golden-amber Northumberland Ale to his deep ruby red Irish Ale.
While the family-owned brewery itself has been around since 2008 (and won several awards), in 2017 they moved into the 170-year-old Peterborough Arms building at 294 Charlotte Street. Check out our blog here to learn all about the local history (and huge patio) of this building and the delicious food they serve.
The area around Brighton, Presqu’ile Provincial Park, and Colborne is known for its great apple orchards. If you’ve ever driven that stretch of the 401 Highway just west of Prince Edward County, you’ll remember seeing the Big Apple. The world’s largest apple is home to more than just pies, treats and family fun—the 401 Cider Brewery is also housed there. Brainchild of Amy Baldwin, a local wine producer for Waupoos Estate Winery and Clafield Cider House, 401 Cider Brewery offers a dazzling variety of both classic and experimental craft ciders. Friendly staff can help you pair a flight of cider with a bite to eat that’ll increase your appreciation for each local flavour profile.