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The clocks have gone back and darkness has descended upon us. Is there a better excuse to hole up with a comforting pint? We’re spoilt for choice with tap takeovers in November and because the days are shorter, it’s worth packing as much quality drinking into them as possible. Here are five places to go this month.
Five Points Brewing at The Rake
It’s no secret that The Rake in Borough Market knows how to host an event. They showcase both local and international breweries on a regular basis. For this tap takeover, they’re welcoming Hackney’s own Five Points Brewing Co. A selection of their beer will be on offer – and everything they do is exceptionally solid, from their luscious pale ale to their new Brick Field Brown, a traditional brown ale with some chewy, malty notes. Meet the brewer, learn more about the beers and maybe even leave with some swag. Be sure to taste the Railway Porter, which is affectionately known as ‘Hackney’s Guinness’. Or it is now, at least. The Rake, 14 Winchester Walk, Borough Market, SE1 9AG. Nov 2, 5pm–11pm.
New Zealand Collective’s Kiwi tap takeover
This is one for the Kiwis – or those who can't get enough of juicy, tropical Pacific ales. Or just anyone who loves beer. A sample of New Zealand breweries will congregate at Out of Office in Battersea to present an exciting range of the country’s beers. This is a one-off and exclusive event that will guarantee to have your tastebuds doing the tango, promising beers imported directly from New Zealand and the freshest available in the UK. One half of Wellington’s Yeastie Boys, Stu McKinlay, will be on hand to guide drinkers through some shining examples of Kiwi beer. We can confidently say that his tuition is worth the tenner ticket price alone. Places are limited, so get a haka on to guarantee your spot. Out of Office, 2A Stormont Road, SW11 5EN. Nov 10, 7.30pm–10pm.
Redemption and Weird Beard dual tap takeover
Like most things in life, two brewers are better than one. Head down to this dual tap takeover hosted by The Craft Beer Co Clerkenwell, where Redemption Brewing and Weird Beard Brew Co come together to entice drinkers with old favourites, some specials and even a collaboration beer. Redemption has been quiet while relocating to a new site in Tottenham, but they’re poised again to shake things up with their flavoursome, modern styles. Aptly matched with Weird Beard, who specialise in hop-forward and unapologetic beers, this combo should be worthwhile. There will also be merchandise and mini kegs to purchase on the day, so be sure to stock up. The Craft Beer Co. Clerkenwell, 82 Leather Lane, EC1N 7TR. Nov 19, noon–11pm.
Bullfinch Brewery at The Rake
This is another not-to-be-missed tap takeover at The Rake, but this time featuring Herne Hill’s Bullfinch Brewery. Bullfinch's beers see traditional UK styles and global influences meet, resulting in some exceptional results. Meet the brewer, enjoy a crisp pint of their Milou Saison, or just try everything on tap that evening and report back. The Rake, 14 Winchester Walk, Borough Market, SE1 9AG. Nov 23, 5pm–11pm.
Burning Sky Beer: Tate tap takeovers
On the last Thursday of every month, the taps of the Tate Modern’s terrace bar are handed over to a British craft brewery, and November sees Burning Sky at the helm. Brewing out of an old Sussex Barn in the South Downs, this brewery is wildly imaginative in its process and styles. Pales are punchy and recipes evolve to ensure each pint is as tasty as possible. It has a barrel-ageing programme that promises great things down the line, but the contents of their foudres – large casks usually used to mature wine – won’t be ready for a few years yet. See this tap takeover as an ideal opportunity to get on the bandwagon now. Tate Modern, Bankside, SE1 9TG. Nov 24, 6.30pm–10.30pm.
In the mood for cask? Check out our round-up of London's best real ale pubs.