Meet the Brewer

At the heart of Botley Brewery is brewer and owner Rob Sanderson, whose passion for traditional real ale has helped shape the brewery and The Hidden Tap into one of Hampshire's most distinctive independent drinking destinations.

Rob has been involved with Botley Brewery Ltd since its incorporation in 2012 and today runs the business alongside Meg Sanderson. Together, they share a belief in properly made beer, personal service and supporting local produce whenever possible.

Brewing with character

Working from the brewery at historic Botley Mills, Rob produces a range of traditional cask ales, seasonal beers and limited-edition small-batch brews.

The brewery operates a compact five-barrel plant, allowing Rob to remain closely involved throughout the process - from selecting ingredients and developing recipes to monitoring fermentation and preparing the finished beer for the bar.

The result is a varied collection of beers with individual personalities, including the refreshing HPA, richly flavoured Wildern Red, traditional English IPA and darker seasonal creations such as Barista and Black Barrel.

Several Botley beers have received recognition at CAMRA festivals, including gold awards for Black Barrel and HPA, together with festival honours for Barista.

From brewery to glass

For Rob, brewing is not simply about producing beer and sending it away. At The Hidden Tap, visitors can enjoy Botley beer only metres from the equipment on which it was made.

Rob is frequently found welcoming visitors, talking about the beers and showing interested guests around the brewery. Formal brewery tours are also available, combining an explanation of the brewing process with food and a selection of Botley ales.

That direct connection between the brewer, the beer and the person drinking it is an important part of the Botley Brewery experience.

Creating The Hidden Tap

In 2017, the small room next to the brewery became available. Rob helped transform it into a simple, welcoming brewery tap appropriately named The Hidden Tap.

Tucked behind Botley Mills beside the River Hamble, it has grown into a characterful meeting place for local residents, visitors, walkers and passing paddlers.

Those arriving by kayak or paddleboard can ring the riverside bell and have their refreshments lowered to them in a wooden box. It is an unusual idea, but one that perfectly reflects Rob's practical, informal and good-humoured approach to hospitality.

Proudly local

Botley Brewery remains closely connected to its Hampshire surroundings. Local ingredients and produce are used whenever practical, while the taproom works with neighbouring and regional suppliers.

Rob has also represented the brewery at events promoting Hampshire food and drink, helping to take the Botley name beyond the village while keeping its identity firmly local.

Come and meet the brewer

The best way to understand Rob's beers is to visit the place where they are created.

Call into The Hidden Tap, choose a pint brewed only a few steps away and, when the brewhouse allows, have a chat with the person who made it.