Welcome to a journey through the historic and enchanting world of mead, exploring the unique and serene experience of sipping this ancient drink in British pubs.

Introduction to Mead in British Pub Culture

Mead, a traditional beverage steeped in history and folklore, is making a subtle but noticeable comeback in British pubs. Despite its less common presence compared to beer and cider, mead is finding its way onto the menus of a few dedicated establishments. This article will guide you through the current landscape of mead availability in British pubs, including specific examples and recommendations.

Notable British Pubs Selling Mead

The Meadery in London

One of the most prominent places to find mead in a British pub setting is The Meadery, located in London. The establishment stands out for its commitment to serving this unique beverage.

Location: 1A 2-4 Craven Road, London W2 3QH, UK

Price for a Pint: The typical cost for a pint of mead ranges from ￡5 to ￡8 depending on the brand and type. It is advisable to check their current menu or call ahead to confirm offerings as they may change.

Gosnells of London Meadery

Another excellent source for mead is Gosnells of London. This company has gained recognition for its refined range of craft meads, offering a delightful experience akin to a trip to a specialist wine or beer shop.

Unique Offerings: Gosnells is known for its sparkling mead, characterized by a delicate honey finish and a balance that makes it refreshingly enjoyable. They also produce more robust versions using vintage harvested honeys, which results in a unique product from each vintage.

Pricing: Given its high-quality craftsmanship, the cost for Gosnells meads typically ranges from ￡6 to ￡20 for a 700-millilitre (24 fl. oz) bottle, equivalent to about one-and-a-half pints.

Specific Mead Varieties

Lindisfarne Dark Mead

Unique Features: Lindisfarne Dark Mead stands out as an exceptionally strong variety, with an ABV of 14.5%, which is three to four times greater than that of regular beer.

Average Cost: Due to its strength and rarity, it can range from ￡6 to ￡20 for a 700-millilitre (24 fl. oz) bottle. You may find it sold in cans or bottles, and one place to try it is London's First Honey Bar, known for serving frozen mead cocktails.

Other Notable Mead Producers

In addition to the aforementioned brands, other wineries in the UK are also crafting mead:

Lurgashall in West Sussex Lyme Bay in Dorset The National Trust and English Heritage site shops, especially those with a medieval theme

These venues offer a variety of mead options, from light and refreshing to robust and bold, making it a fantastic choice for both traditional and robust palates.

Conclusion

Mead, a timeless and enchanting beverage, is finding its place in British pubs. From Gosnells of London to The Meadery, there are dedicated establishments that offer a wide array of mead options. Whether you're seeking a light, refreshing sipper or a stronger, more robust experience, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy this ancient drink. So why not take a sip and embark on a delightful journey through the flavors of mead?