Steeped in tradition and brimming with character, Joules Brewery is a proudly independent Shropshire-based brewery with deep roots in the region's brewing heritage.
Their distinctive red cross logo is an ancient marker of quality and finding it outside a pub is a good sign you’re in for something special.
A Slice of History in Every Sip
The Joules name dates back to 1758, making it one of the most storied breweries in the UK. After a brief hiatus, the brewery was revived in Market Drayton in the early 2000s, where it continues to produce award-winning ales using traditional methods and local ingredients.
Their beers pay homage to the past while embracing the present – from the classic Joules Pale Ale, a crisp and refreshing drink with subtle hoppy bitterness, to the rich and smooth Slumbering Monk, a full-bodied favourite that’s perfect for cooler evenings.
Don’t Miss: Green Monkey
One of the stars of the Joules lineup is Green Monkey, a clean, continental-style lager with a cheeky name and a serious fan base. Brewed with natural mineral water and fine hops, it’s incredibly drinkable and pairs beautifully with food – particularly fish and chips, burgers or anything grilled.
Joules pubs also serve a variety of IPAs, stouts and seasonal brews that rotate throughout the year. Whether you prefer something light and citrusy or dark and malty, there’s always something interesting on tap. And they have a fine range of wines, spirits and non-alcoholic drinks, too.
Food that Feeds the Soul
While Joules may be known for their beer, don’t overlook the food. Joules pubs focus on locally sourced ingredients, classic British dishes, and generous portions. Expect to find everything from homemade pies and Sunday roasts to artisan burgers, ploughman’s lunches and vegetarian specials. The menus vary slightly from pub to pub, giving each one a unique flavour.
Some even offer beer-infused dishes – think steak and ale pie made with Joules’ own brew, or ale-battered fish served with hand-cut chips and mushy peas.
A Pub Experience Like No Other
Walking into a Joules pub is like stepping into a cosy, character-filled haven. They take pride in restoring historic pubs or building new ones that echo traditional styles – complete with oak beams, open fires, flagstone floors and a welcoming atmosphere.
They’re not part of a faceless chain. Each Joules pub has its own identity, with friendly staff, thoughtful décor and a real sense of place. Dogs and muddy boots are often welcome, and you’ll find everything from quiz nights to acoustic sessions depending on where you go.
Where to Find Joules Pubs
While Joules Brewery is based in Market Drayton, you’ll find their pubs dotted around Staffordshire, Shropshire, the Black Country, Cheshire and into Wales, ideal for a detour during a Midlands countryside walk, a day out in a market town, or even a short pub crawl in a historic village.
Some popular Joules pubs include:
The Crown Wharf (Stone) – a striking canalside venue with great views and even better beer
The Henry Tudor Inn Barracks Passage, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury
The Red Lion (Market Drayton) – the original Joules Tap House, bursting with charm and history
The Cock Hotel, Wellington, Shropshire, an ancient coaching inn
The New Inn, Newport, Shropshire,
The Red Lion, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham
The Cross Keys, Chester
The Royal Oak, Wrexham, Wales
To check out the 40+ tap houses visit https://www.joulesbrewery.co.uk/our-taphouses
Joules pubs are a true Midlands treasure. They combine heritage, hospitality and hand-crafted brewing in a way that few other pub groups can match. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, a lover of British pub culture, or simply someone looking for a very good meal in good company, a Joules pub is always worth seeking out.
So next time you’re in the West Midlands, follow the red cross – and raise a glass to one of Britain’s finest independent breweries. Cheers!
