About Us

Cotleigh Brewery began life in Devon in 1979, in the old stable block of Cotleigh Farmhouse at Washfield near Tiverton. The original operation started as a five barrel brewing plant, with Tawny being the first brew and it has since remained the brand leader. Immediate success meant that in 1980 the brewery moved to Somerset and into the current brewing site in Wiveliscombe. Its original owner Ted Bishop was succeeded in the early 80's by John and Jenny Aries, a husband and wife team, who built upon the brewery's success. The brewery expanded in 1985 in order to fulfil ever-increasing demand.

After six years at the helm Fred and Steve have continued to develop and build upon the reputation for quality brewing. We have introduced a portfolio of bottled beers and introduced a range of refreshing bottled cider Fredrik's Pear, Fruits of the Forest and the new alcohol free Strawberry and Lime.

Cotleigh 25 was awarded category winner for the Best Alcohol Product of the year, beating a recognised Champagne to first place. The ceremony took place in London and was sponsored by The Hotel and Caterer Magazine in December 2006.

Cotleigh Brewery has also been awarded Drinks Producer in 2005 and 2007 by readers and judges by Somerset Life Magazine.

The Brewery has continued to receive prestigious awards both nationally and internationally for Best Point of Sale material and Label Design and Printing.

We celebrate 30 years of brewing excellence in 2009 and have produced two new beers. We decided to brew a strong beer after a powerful and majestic bird Albatross 6.5%. Nutcracker was brewed many years ago and after sitting as a recipe in our drawers we have brewed a flavoursome mild at 3.4%.

Our beers are registered trade marks and we continue to support our charitable partner The Hawk and Owl Trust. We thank all our customers for helping to contribute to conserving wild birds of prey, their habitats and all the associated species.