Allanwater Brewhouse, Stirling

Completely unexpected haven from the outside world that is well worth visiting (if you can find it). Tucked away in an old outbuilding behind a hotel, the door marked 'visitor centre' leads in to an incredibly cosy and eclectically furnished bar with a splendid range of handpumps. Beer bottles and other paraphernalia cover the walls, with a bottled beer shop and the brewery itself through the back. The beer itself covers a wide range of styles and flavours, so probably something for all tastes, and samples are free. Regular live music too.

The complete package in one place consists of a pub, a brewery, a shop, various events, tours and a visitor centre. Check out http://bridgeofallan.co.uk/ before visiting and pre booking of the tours. There is parking in front of the brewery.

Wattie is rather sheepish about the pub which is the Tap Shop for Tinpot Brewery (Wattie is brewer). Now open daily Noon till 5pm, hours which will soon extended into the evening. Specializes in different brews : on today Bramble, Mango, 70/-, 75/- along with Traditional Scottish Ales Double Expresso as guest. A mild is in the fermenting vessel at present for the upcoming Mild Trail. If lucky you may get to try the excellent Thai Pot a great speciality ale or the Marmalade Pot. These brews disappear quickly when served.