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Best Gluten Free Beer Brands. A Complete UK Guide

Claymation bearded man in a “The GF Table” apron smiling at the camera with tasting glasses of gluten free beer and a notepad on the table inside a warm, rustic brewery with a sign that says “Gluten Free Brewery.”

🍺 This guide discusses alcoholic beverages and is intended for readers aged 18 and over.

Your ultimate guide to gluten free beers in the UK

Finding a decent gluten free beer used to be like hunting for treasure at the back of a pub fridge, possible but rarely satisfying. Thankfully, things have changed. The UK’s gluten free beer scene has grown rapidly, with major brands and independent breweries finally realising that coeliacs deserve a proper pint too.

This page is designed as a living guide, meaning it will be regularly updated as new beers and breweries appear on the market. Whether you are newly diagnosed, a long time coeliac, or simply curious about gluten free brewing, this guide is here to help you.

  • 🍺 Discover new gluten free beers available across UK supermarkets and pubs
  • 🏭 Find independent breweries that are fully coeliac safe or certified gluten free
  • 🛒 See where to buy them both online and in stores
  • Understand the difference between gluten removed, naturally gluten free and low gluten beers.
  • 💬 Read real tasting notes from both breweries and my own experiences

You can use this page to plan your next shop, explore new breweries, or just make sure your next pint is coeliac safe.

So grab a seat, get comfortable, and let us dive into the world of gluten free beers, because being gluten free does not mean saying goodbye to good beer.

Contents

  1. Your ultimate guide to gluten free beers in the UK
    1. Contents
  2. Gluten Removed vs Alternative Grain Beers. What is the Difference?
    1. 🍺 Gluten Removed Beers
    2. 🌾 Alternative Grain Beers
    3. 📉 Lower Gluten Beers
    4. ✅ So Which Is Better?
  3. 🛒 Shop bought gluten free beers
    1. BrewDog Gluten Free Punk IPA (gluten removed)
    2. Daura Damm (gluten removed)
    3. Jubel Beer (gluten removed)
    4. Old Speckled Hen Gluten Free (gluten removed)
    5. Peroni Gluten Free (gluten removed)
    6. Skinny Lager (gluten removed)
    7. Stella Artois Gluten Free (gluten removed)
  4. 🌾 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Alternative Grain)
    1. Alt Grain Co.
  5. 🍺 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Gluten Removed)
    1. Bellfield Brewery
    2. Birmingham Brewing Company
    3. Brass Castle Brewery
    4. Brightside Brewing Company
    5. Brighton Brew Co
    6. Bristol Beer Factory
    7. Monty’s Brewery
    8. Neitiv
    9. Nene Valley Brewery
    10. Padstow Brewing Company
    11. Potbelly Brewery
    12. Purity Brewing
    13. Williams Bros Brewing Co.
  6. 📉 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Low Gluten)
    1. Hepworth Brewery
  7. 🍺 Beers by Type. Tried and Tested
    1. American Pale Ale
    2. Best Bitter
    3. Hazy Pale Ale
    4. India Pale Ale
    5. Lager
    6. Milk Stout
    7. Pale Ale
    8. Porter
    9. Premium Pale Ale
    10. Session Pale Ale
    11. Sour
    12. Stout
    13. West Coast Pale Ale
    14. Winter Dark Ale
  8. ❓ Gluten Free Beer FAQ
  9. Final thoughts
  10. Disclaimer. Please drink responsibly
  11. Keep Reading

Gluten Removed vs Alternative Grain Beers. What is the Difference?

One of the most common questions in the gluten free beer world is what is the difference between gluten removed, naturally gluten free beers, and lower gluten beers? The answer comes down to how the beer is brewed, and it is not as complicated as it sounds.

🍺 Gluten Removed Beers

These are beers made in the traditional way, often using barley or wheat, but with a clever little twist. During brewing, a special enzyme is added that breaks down the gluten protein and reduces it to levels below twenty parts per million which is the legal limit to be classed as gluten free in the United Kingdom.

That means you can enjoy the full bodied taste and familiar texture of classic beer styles, just without the gluten.

Gluten removed beers are considered safe for people with coeliac disease once properly tested and labelled. Even so, it is always important to use your own judgement and experience. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so go with what feels right for you.

However, if you have a wheat allergy rather than coeliac disease, be cautious. Gluten removed beers are still brewed with barley or wheat and may contain trace proteins that could cause a reaction. In that case, beers brewed entirely from alternative grains such as rice, buckwheat, or sorghum are usually the better choice.

🌾 Alternative Grain Beers

These beers are brewed without barley, wheat, or rye at all. Instead, they use naturally gluten free grains such as sorghum, millet, buckwheat, or rice. This means there is no gluten in the mix from the start and the beer is naturally safe for even the most sensitive drinkers.

Brewers using this method often experiment with flavour and texture, creating beers that are naturally lighter, fruitier, or more aromatic. They might not taste exactly like a traditional pint, but that is part of the fun. They offer something fresh and interesting while still being completely gluten free.

These types of breweries are little harder to find but they are out there.

📉 Lower Gluten Beers

These are brewed using traditional methods but with naturally reduced gluten levels. Brewers might use low protein malts, older traditional techniques, or natural processes that lead to far less gluten in the final drink. As with every gluten free product, the finished beer must still test under twenty parts per million to be legally labelled gluten free.

This area can cause confusion, so it is important to be clear. These beers rely entirely on the brewery testing the final product and providing transparent information. If the beer is not labelled gluten free, it is not suitable for people with coeliac disease.

Some drinkers feel uncertain about this category because the gluten is reduced through brewing rather than removed with an enzyme or avoided completely with alternative grains.

If a brewery clearly labels a lower gluten beer as gluten free and provides proper batch testing, it is legally considered safe for coeliacs. Even so, always trust your own judgement and your own body. Check the brewery website, look for clear testing information, and if anything feels vague or incomplete it is absolutely fine to avoid that product. Your pint should feel both enjoyable and reassuring.

So Which Is Better?

There is no single best method. They are simply different. Gluten removed beers give you that classic pub flavour you might miss. Alternative grain beers open the door to fresh and creative styles. Lower gluten beers offer a more traditional brew that some people enjoy, as long as the testing is clear and you feel comfortable with it.

All three approaches help make the world of gluten free foods more inclusive. The important thing is that you choose a pint you feel confident drinking and enjoy every sip. May contain humour, definitely does not contain gluten.


🛒 Shop bought gluten free beers

These are the easiest beers to find across UK supermarkets and pubs. They are all tested below 20 ppm and can legally be called gluten free. Most are brewed with barley before the gluten is reduced, so they are labelled here as gluten removed.

A quick note: always remember to check the product label, as recipes and testing methods can change, and this is a guide based on general information and personal experience.

🍻 Click here to see our list Shop Bought Beer Brands

BrewDog Gluten Free Punk IPA (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. IPA
  • Where to buy. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, BrewDog bars
  • Taste. Hoppy, fruity, bold with tropical notes
  • Verdict. A proper IPA hit if you miss that flavour. Check if gluten removed works for you.

Daura Damm (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Lager
  • Where to buy. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, many restaurants
  • Taste. Smooth, slightly malty, clean finish
  • Verdict. One of the earliest widely available gluten removed lagers and still a solid choice.

Jubel Beer (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Fruit infused lager. Peach, Elderflower, Grapefruit
  • Where to buy. Sainsbury’s, selected pubs and bars, online
  • Taste. Bright, fruity, very refreshing
  • Verdict. A fun choice if you enjoy fruit forward beers. As it is gluten removed it may not suit everyone.

Old Speckled Hen Gluten Free (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Ale
  • Where to buy. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons
  • Taste. Malty, rich, full bodied
  • Verdict. A pub classic in a gluten removed version for those who miss a traditional ale.

Peroni Gluten Free (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Lager
  • Where to buy. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Waitrose, many pubs
  • Taste. Crisp, refreshing, clean
  • Verdict. A reliable classic and very easy to find.

Skinny Lager (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Lager
  • Where to buy. Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Amazon
  • Taste. Light, crisp, refreshing
  • Verdict. A lighter option that still tastes like a proper lager.

Stella Artois Gluten Free (gluten removed)

Click Here to Read More 📖
  • Style. Lager
  • Where to buy. Most UK supermarkets
  • Taste. Smooth, lightly malty, crisp finish
  • Verdict. Familiar flavour in a gluten free format. Brewed with barley so not for everyone.


🌾 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Alternative Grain)

These beers are brewed without barley, wheat, or rye at all. Instead, they use naturally gluten free grains such as sorghum, millet, buckwheat, or rice. This means there is no gluten in the mix from the start, making them a safe option for even the most sensitive drinkers. Brewers using this approach often experiment with flavour, creating beers that can be naturally lighter, fruitier, or more aromatic.

A quick note: always remember to check the product label, as recipes and testing methods can change, and this is a guide based on general information and personal experience.

🍻 Click here to see our list of Alternative Grain Breweries


🍺 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Gluten Removed)

These beers are made the traditional way, often starting with barley or wheat, but with a clever little twist. During brewing, a special enzyme is added that breaks down the gluten protein, reducing it to levels below the 20 parts per million legal limit to be classed as gluten free in the UK. This is the method most common among the big-brand lagers and allows you to enjoy the full-bodied taste and familiar texture of classic beer styles, just without the gluten.

A quick note: always remember to check the product label, as recipes and testing methods can change, and this is a guide based on general information and personal experience.

🍻 Click here to see our list of Gluten Removed Breweries

📉 Independent Gluten Free Breweries in the UK (Low Gluten)

Some independent breweries use traditional methods that naturally produce lower gluten levels in the final beer. As long as the finished product tests under twenty parts per million and is clearly labelled gluten free, it is considered suitable for coeliacs.

Always trust your own judgement. Check the brewery website for clear testing information, and if anything feels unclear, simply choose another beer. Your safety comes first. May contain humour, definitely does not contain gluten.

A quick note: always remember to check the product label, as recipes and testing methods can change, and this is a guide based on general information and personal experience.

🍻 Click here to see our list of Lower Gluten Breweries

🍺 Beers by Type. Tried and Tested

A simple way to explore gluten free beers by style. Each section below groups together the beers I have personally tried and tested so you can quickly find what you enjoy. Clear beer styles and tasting notes to help you choose your next pint.

Click on the brewery to see tasting notes for each of the beers.

This section will be updated regularly so keep checking back for new beers as I try and test them.

🍻 Click here to see Beers by Type

❓ Gluten Free Beer FAQ

Still have questions about gluten free beer? Here are some of the most common ones people ask. All answered simply and honestly.

Is gluten removed beer safe for coeliacs?

Yes, gluten removed beers are brewed using barley or wheat and then treated with an enzyme that breaks down the gluten protein to below 20 parts per million, which is the legal limit for gluten free products in the UK. These beers are considered safe for most people with coeliac disease, but everyone is different, so always trust your own judgement and experience.

What are alternative grain beers?

Alternative grain beers are brewed without barley, wheat, or rye at all. Instead, they use naturally gluten free grains such as sorghum, millet, rice, or buckwheat. This means they are gluten free from the start and can be enjoyed safely by anyone who is especially sensitive to even trace amounts of gluten.

Which supermarkets sell gluten free beer in the UK?

You can find gluten free beers in most major supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Waitrose, and Morrisons. Brands like Peroni, Stella Artois, BrewDog, and Skinny Lager are widely available, along with smaller craft options in selected stores.

How do I know if a beer is truly gluten free?

Always check the label carefully. In the UK, a beer can only be labelled as “gluten free” if it has been tested to contain less than 20 ppm of gluten. Many breweries also publish their testing standards or certifications on their websites for extra reassurance.

Do gluten free beers taste different?

Some do, some do not. Gluten removed beers often taste almost identical to traditional brews, while alternative grain beers can have lighter, fruitier, or slightly different flavour profiles depending on the grains used. It is worth exploring both to find what suits your taste best.

Are all gluten free beers vegan?

Not always. Some breweries use animal-based fining agents to clarify their beer, while others use vegan-friendly alternatives. If that matters to you, check the label or the brewery’s website for details.

Can I drink gluten free beer on tap safely?

It depends on how the bar or pub manages its lines and equipment. Even if a beer is certified gluten free, it can be cross-contaminated if it shares lines with regular beer. If you are unsure, it is always best to ask staff whether the beer is poured from a dedicated gluten free tap or a separate line. Many independent venues are becoming more aware and take this seriously, so it is worth checking.

Why do some gluten free beers still use barley?

Barley gives beer much of its classic flavour, colour, and texture. Some brewers choose to use it because it helps maintain that familiar beer profile while removing the gluten through enzymes during brewing. This allows them to create a traditional-tasting pint that is safe for most coeliacs, though as always, individual tolerance can vary.

Can I drink gluten free beer if I have a wheat allergy?

This depends on how the beer is made. Gluten removed beers may still contain trace amounts of wheat or barley proteins, so they may not be suitable for people with wheat allergies. In that case, it is best to look for beers made entirely from alternative grains such as rice, buckwheat, or sorghum, as these are naturally free from both gluten and wheat. Always double-check ingredient labels if you are managing a wheat allergy, as it is not the same as coeliac disease.

What is the best way to start exploring gluten free beers?

Start simple. Try a few of the easy-to-find supermarket options first to see which styles you like, lager, IPA, ale and then move on to independent breweries that specialise in gluten free beer. Everyone’s taste is different, and half the fun is discovering what you enjoy most.


Final thoughts

Gluten free beer in the UK has come a long way. From supermarket lagers to small independent breweries there is now something for every taste. If you have a favourite I should try next, tell me in the comments and I will add it to the tasting list.

Disclaimer. Please drink responsibly

This post discusses alcoholic beverages and is intended for readers aged 18 and over in line with UK law. The information shared is based on personal experience and trusted sources and is not medical advice.

If you have coeliac disease or gluten intolerance, always check product labels carefully, as brewing methods and formulations can change.


All brewery logos and product images on this page belong to their rightful owners, the brilliant breweries who make these gluten free beers possible. They’re shown here purely to celebrate and help you recognise their creations, not to claim ownership (I’m good, but I don’t own a brewery… yet).

If you’re a brewery or brand featured here and would prefer an image removed or changed, just drop me a message, I’ll sort it quicker than you can say “cheers”.

Always check labels and drink responsibly.

Keep Reading

Gluten free life isn’t just about avoiding wheat, it’s about finding the best substitutes that actually taste amazing. Here are some posts you’ll love…

If you’ve been enjoying these posts, check out The Gluten Free Chronicles. It’s my personal series on life with coeliac disease, the highs, the lows and the snacks in between.

My Gluten Free Chronicles – A GF Table Story 📖


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3 responses to “Best Gluten Free Beer Brands. A Complete UK Guide”

  1.  Avatar
    Anonymous

    The Bowland Brewery in Clitheroe, Lancashire, does a fine range of gluten free beers.

    Like

    1. Ben Haggerty Avatar

      Amazing thank you for the heads up. I’ll add it my growing list. 😂

      Like

  2.  Avatar
    Anonymous

    Thank you! I’ve got another one for your ever growing list; Westerham Brewery, superb GF beers ranging from Stout to Lager.

    Liked by 1 person

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