Hogs Back Brewery’s Tap Room, in a former hop-drying kiln in Tongham, Surrey, has re-opened following a two month renovation.
Caroline Breckell, deputy lieutenant of Surrey, cuts the ribbon to re-open the tap. From left are: Brodie Mauluka, mayor of Farnham; Caroline Breckell; Rupert Thompson, executive chairman of Hogs Back Brewery; and Sallie Barker, mayor of Guildford. Photograph: Jon Hawkins/Surrey Hills Photography
The renovation was part-funded by a grant secured through the Rural Prosperity Fund, thanks to Surrey County Council. The grants are aimed at helping small businesses in rural communities within the Guildford boundary to invest in capital equipment to expand their businesses and to create jobs.
There is now a new, larger bar, supported on recycled wooden beer barrels, new stone, and wooden flooring. There has been investment in new chairs, tables, and sofas.
The work was carried out by local builder Ben Waugh, who has been responsible for transforming the site over the last five years, alongside Euan Champion, who successfully graduated from the brewery’s TEA [Train. Experience. Achieve] Academy, having completed his apprenticeship in 2024.
“The Tap is an integral part of our future growth plans here in Tonhgam,” said Hogs Back managing director Miles Chesterman. “We’re delighted to have secured the funding, which means we can invest in the highest quality and standards.
“Bringing like-minded people together in a relaxed and comfortable environment, where they can drink the freshest beer straight from the cellar, is very special and we want to continue that tradition.”
Guests at the opening — including civic dignitaries, and friends of the brewery — were able to try a range of Hogs Back beers, as well as canapes courtesy of the new head chef, Danny Smith. The evening concluded with local singer-songwriter, Luke Edney, performing an acoustic set.
