If you’re a local brewhead looking for a fun afternoon, you should consider heading to Philadelphia’s northern suburbs to crack a beer along the newly dubbed Bucks County Ale Trail.
In 2012 in Perkasie, two gents turned a homebrewing hobby into an obsession, one now know Free Will Brewing Company. Expect a dozen beers on tap, including favorites like Techno IPA and Citra Pale Ale. Funky beer lovers—don’t miss Sour Sundays. 410 E. Walnut St., Perkasie, (267) 354-0813
Much like in Perkasie, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company in Croydon was founded by home-brewers who began mass production in 2012. NCBC features five year-round brews as well as seasonals that can be tested at their tasting room Wednesdays through Sundays. 909 Ray Ave., Croydon, (215) 458-7081
In Yardley, the Vault Brewing Company takes its name from the former Yardley National Bank, constructed in 1889, which houses the brewpub. Reserve your spot for a Saturday afternoon free brewery tour, or enjoy live jazz every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. 10 S. Main St., Yardley, (267) 573-4291
Drinkers and diners in Quakertown can enjoy premium hand-crafted beers brewed on site at the Red Lion Brewery in McCoole’s Historic Red Lion Inn. On Tuesday trivia nights, you can enjoy the crisp hop and malt profiles of the Amber Ale, or test the citrus and grapefruit flavors of the American Centennial IPA on Wednesday Wing Night. 4 S. Main St., Quakertown, (215) 538-1776
Triumph Brewing Company in New Hope is home to live music and a menu filled with local ingredients to complement the Saison or the hand-pumped Best Bitter. 400 Union Square Dr., New Hope, (215) 862-8300
A third-generation beer lover uses more than 60 years of knowledge and passion to craft low-calorie, high-taste brews at the Doylestown Brewing Company. This Bucks County stronghold is home to the award-winning R5 Lager, Union St IPA and Fountain House light beer. 22 S. Main St., Doylestown, (267) 454-7240
The brewers at the Bucks County Brewery in Pipersville offer some exceptional out-of-the-box beers. Some of their seasonals include Summer Solstice, with a lemon zest and Caribbean spices, and Crab-a-loupe, a beer brewed with crabapple and cantaloupe. 31 Appletree Ln., Pipersville, (609) 439-2468
Looking a place to accommodate a crowd? The Station Tap House boasts a beautiful outdoor patio and expansive list of ciders and beers that even your connoisseur friend will find interesting. 194 W. Ashland St., Doylestown, (215) 348-1663
- Top photo: Nina Lea Photography
- Bottom photo: Tami Seymour
