So, the course looks appealing and you’re seriously considering attending Brewlab, but you want to know more about the experience and logistics of studying here? We’ve prepared some general guidance but please just get in touch if you have any questions. Richard, the course coordinator would be more than happy to assist.
Why choose Brewlab?
Choosing to invest in studying at Brewlab is a proven route to success. It has been the starting point for many careers and new breweries. Along with receiving a comprehensive programme of study in the most time efficient and cost-effective way, Brewlab also opens the opportunity to adventure and experience life in the UK. Indeed, our training courses regularly attract people from around the world and the chance to get to know so many people who share the passion for craft brewing is truly unique. We’ve been fortunate enough to have had students from each continent start their brewing journey with us.
We boast a vast international network of successful graduates who are working in the industry and running their own breweries. Check out some of the glowing success stories they’ve provided for us here.
All the lectures are delivered in English. If there are subjects you’re struggling with during the course, whether they be brewing or welfare related, our team can assist or arrange extra sessions to catch up.
Where is Brewlab?
Brewlab is based in the coastal city of Sunderland on the North East coast of England. Sunderland is a modern location with an amazing industrial history particularly coal mining, shipbuilding and glass making. It’s worth reading more about how at one point Sunderland was the biggest ship building town in the world! It is now better known as a university city and perhaps for the football club, that recently featured on a hit Netflix Docuseries.
Check out the local tourist information for what to see and do during your stay. If you’re looking for inspiration you could get yourself along to the beach for some local fish and chips, soak up some local culture at the museum and winter gardens, take a class at the National Glass Centre or attend a show at the historical Empire Theatre.
Sunderland is a comparatively affordable place to live compared to London and other southern cities.
The River Wear runs through it all the way to Durham and beyond. Only a 30-minute bus journey away, Durham is a historic town woven with cobbled streets that lead to a magnificent cathedral which is a real highlight for tourists in the region.
Sitting just north and connected by the light rail system called the Metro, is the city of Newcastle. It is a vibrant, bustling city and home to a thriving brew scene. There are so many exciting breweries to enjoy and visit, Wylam Brewery being the most famous and distinguished. You’ll get a chance to undertake commercial placements in most of them.
During the course we’ll do a spot of tourism around the county of Northumberland and visit some inspiring craft breweries. That would only be an eye opener into this extraordinary region that features Hadrian’s Wall, Roman forts, Bamburgh Castle and Alnwick Castle, home to Harry Potter filming for the quidditch games.
Making the most of your trip
Students often make use of the weekends to have short stays and city breaks around the UK. Travel links are plentiful and easily accessible from Sunderland. The historic cities of Edinburgh and York are less than a couple of hours away on a train and a visit to London is only a little further. You could also venture to the Lake District, Scottish Highlands or North Yorkshire to explore some of the UK’s finest scenery.
During the mid-course break it’s common for students to either book a flight or hop on a local ferry over to Europe, taking in the beer and culture of the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. Cities like Bruges, Amsterdam (only a one-hour flight away) and Munich feature some of the most famous and traditional breweries in the world. Dublin (at only a 45-minute flight away) is another popular tourist destination where you can sample a certain popular brand in all its glory!
Airbnb and hostels make it easier than ever to budget and keep costs down.
Travel Logistics
Newcastle Airport is the closest international airport to Sunderland. It’s about an hours journey on the Metro through to Sunderland central. You may choose to arrive at a different airport and then take a train or a bus to Sunderland.
If you were staying at the accommodation provided by Brewlab, it’s about a 30 minute walk or short bus journey to Brewlab HQ.
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