Over twenty years ago, in a quaint barn near Reading, a delicious legacy began with the creation of the Hoppit. As Loddon Brewery’s first-ever brew, it has captivated the hearts of locals and beer enthusiasts alike. Born from a playful twist on “HOP-IT,” this sessionable beer, with its East Kent Goldings hops, embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With each smooth, marmalade-kissed pint, Hoppit isn’t just a drink but a journey through time, celebrating over two decades of bringing people together, one glass at a time. It’s more than a beer; it’s where our story began and a testament to our enduring passion.

Hoppit beer has been pouring pints since 2003, standing proud as Loddon Brewery’s first and most loved classic bitter. Born from a playful twist on “HOP-IT,” this sessionable beer with East Kent Goldings hops has kept locals coming back for two decades. With its smooth, marmalade-kissed flavour and 3.4% strength, Hoppit carries a tradition brewed deep into every cask and bottle. Stick around to see why this beer still steals the show at pubs near and far. Try Hoppit today

The birth of Hoppit

Origins of Loddon Brewery

Loddon Brewery was born from a passion for real ale and a dedication to tradition. Nestled in a historic barn near Reading in Dunsden, the brewery combines heritage with a love for local flavours. It all started when owner and brewer Chris Hearn decided to turn his brewing dreams into reality. With a commitment to quality and a community-first mindset, Loddon Brewery quickly became a local favourite.

The brewery’s independent spirit sets it apart. It’s more than a business, it’s a family, a community hub, and a place where the love for brewing shines in every pint. From the beginning, the focus has been on creating beers that not only taste great but also bring people together.

Brewing the First Batch

Brewing the first batch of Hoppit was a journey of passion and precision. Chris Hearn, the owner and brewer, crafted this beer with a vision to create something both traditional and unique. The name “Hoppit” was a playful nod to the hops that give the beer its distinct character.

Setting out to brew a sessionable, classic bitter, the team at Loddon knew they had something special. Using traditional methods, they perfected a recipe that would become the heart of their brewery. Each batch was brewed with care, capturing the essence of the East Kent Goldings hops that give Hoppit its signature marmalade flavour.

The Craft Behind Hoppit

Beer enthusiasts know that a great beer is all about the perfect blend of ingredients, taste, and brewing techniques. Hoppit embodies this, offering a rich experience in every sip.

Hoppit is all about simplicity and taste. At its core, this classic bitter boasts East Kent Goldings hops, which infuse the beer with a delightful Seville orange marmalade flavour. This hop variety is a cornerstone of English brewing, offering a subtle yet distinctive aroma and taste.

The beer’s body is crafted using a combination of Pale Ale malt and dark invert sugar, which contributes to its smoothness and depth. The malt adds a subtle sweetness that balances the hop bitterness, creating a harmonious blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying. This balance is what makes Hoppit a sessionable beer, perfect for enjoying one pint after another.

Hoppit’s flavour profile isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about how they come together to create something memorable. The sweetness, bitterness, and fullness are perfectly calibrated, with a colour that reflects the beer’s rich tradition. It’s a beer that tells a story with every pour.

Brewing Techniques and Traditions

At Loddon Brewery, the brewing process is a blend of time-honoured techniques and modern precision. From the initial mash to the final cask, every step is handled with the utmost care. The brewery’s 20-barrel setup allows them to produce around 30,000 pints a week, but it’s not about quantity—it’s about quality.

The brewing team follows traditional methods, ensuring that each batch of Hoppit lives up to its reputation. The process starts with selecting the finest ingredients, sourced from trusted suppliers who share their commitment to excellence. The mash is carefully monitored, with temperatures and timings adjusted to bring out the best in each ingredient.

Fermentation, too, is a critical step. It’s during this stage that the beer develops its unique character. By keeping a close eye on the fermentation process, the brewers ensure that Hoppit maintains its smooth, marmalade-kissed flavour. Every pint is a testament to the skills and passion of the team at Loddon.

Hoppit’s Legacy and Community

Celebrating Over 20 Years

Twenty years is a milestone worth celebrating. Hoppit’s journey from the first batch to today is a story of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to quality. Over the years, Loddon Brewery has seen trends come and go, but Hoppit has remained a constant favourite.

The secret to its longevity lies in its simplicity and authenticity. Hoppit isn’t just brewed; it’s crafted with love, each pint a reflection of the brewery’s values and spirit. The team at Loddon takes pride in knowing that their beer has been a part of countless celebrations, gatherings, and quiet moments over the years.

Hoppit is now over 20 years old; it’s not just a celebration of date but also community and tradition. It’s a time to raise a glass and toast to the people who have made Hoppit’s journey possibl,brewers, drinkers, and everyone in between.

Where to Enjoy Hoppit

The best way to experience Hoppit is straight from the source. The Loddon Brewery Tap Yard offers the freshest pints, poured with pride and passion. It’s a place where you can soak in the brewery’s atmosphere, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a working brewery.

You’ll also find Hoppit in some of the cosiest pubs around, such as The Baskerville Arms in Lower Shiplake or the Bell Inn in Waltham St Lawrence. Each venue offers a unique setting to enjoy this classic bitter, whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon.

For those who love to take the experience home, Hoppit is available in cask, bag-in-box for takeaway, and 500ml bottles. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, you’re part of a tradition that celebrates quality, flavour, and community.