Hand Brew Co in Brighton: Why Their Beers (Like 'Toad Licker') Are a Must-Try at Lost and Found Taproom

When you're talking about Brighton's craft beer scene, you can't ignore Hand Brew Co. This isn't just another brewery trying to make a quick buck: it's a proper local operation that's been quietly revolutionising what it means to brew in Brighton since 2015. And right here at Lost and Found Taproom, we're proud to stock their iconic beers, including the legendary 'Toad Licker' that's become a cult favourite across Sussex.

The Hand in Hand Story: Brighton's Tower Brewery

Walk down St James's Street in Kemptown and you'll find something genuinely unique: the Hand in Hand pub, home to what's possibly the smallest commercially operating tower brewery in the world. This isn't some corporate brewing facility tucked away in an industrial estate. This is four stories of brewing magic crammed into a Victorian pub that's been serving beer for 150 years.

Hand Brew Co took over this historic Brighton taproom in 2015, and what they've done with it is nothing short of brilliant. The tower brewery setup means they're brewing vertically: gravity does half the work, and every drop of beer that comes out has been crafted in the heart of our city. It's the kind of operation that makes you proud to be from Brighton.

When demand outgrew their cozy Kemptown setup, they opened a larger facility in Worthing in 2020, complete with a 2000-liter brew kit and automated canning line. But here's the thing: they never abandoned their Brighton roots. Special beers are still brewed at the original Hand in Hand location, keeping that authentic local connection alive.

Toad Licker: The Grapefruit Pale That Changed Everything

Let's talk about the beer that put Hand Brew Co on the map. Toad Licker isn't just a catchy name: it's a multi-award-winning 4% grapefruit pale ale that perfectly captures what modern Brighton brewing is all about. Light, refreshing, and packed with character, this beer takes their original pale ale recipe and infuses it with real grapefruit and a trio of American hops: Cascade and Chinook doing the heavy lifting.

What makes Toad Licker special isn't just the liquid inside (though that's pretty spectacular). It's the collaboration with internationally acclaimed artist David Shrigley, whose distinctive artwork graces every can. This is Hand Brew Co's philosophy in action: "art you can drink," where artists design the outsides and artisans craft the insides.

The beer itself? Naturally hazy, lightly bitter, with that zesty grapefruit character that makes it dangerously drinkable. At 4%, it's perfect for a session at our Brighton taproom: you can actually enjoy a few without writing off your entire day.

Why We Stock Hand Brew Co at Lost and Found

Here's the thing about running a craft beer taproom in Brighton: you could fill your taps with flashy imports and trendy collaborations, but that's not what we're about. At Lost and Found, we're committed to showcasing the incredible brewing talent right here on our doorstep. Hand Brew Co represents everything we love about Sussex brewing: independence, quality, and a genuine commitment to the local community.

Our relationship with local breweries like Hand Brew Co isn't just about business: it's about being part of Brighton's craft beer taproom ecosystem. When you order a Toad Licker at our Fiveways venue, you're not just buying a beer. You're supporting a Brighton brewery, a Brighton taproom, and keeping money circulating within our local economy.

We're the counter-culture to big-label beer, proudly supporting brewers who stay independent and rooted in their craft. Hand Brew Co's commitment to creating vegan-friendly beers for every palate makes them perfect partners for our inclusive, community-focused approach.

Beyond Toad Licker: The Full Hand Brew Co Experience

While Toad Licker might be their flagship, Hand Brew Co's range extends far beyond one beer. These guys know how to brew everything from crisp lagers and hoppy pales to rich stouts, complex porters, and tart sours. Each style showcases the technical skill and creative passion that makes independent Brighton venue partnerships so rewarding.

Their seasonal offerings keep things interesting too. You'll find limited releases that experiment with different hop combinations, barrel-aging techniques, and innovative ingredients. This constant evolution means there's always something new to discover, whether you're a seasoned craft beer veteran or just starting your journey into proper beer.

The beauty of having Hand Brew Co on our taps is the conversation it starts. People recognize the quality immediately: that clean finish, the balanced hop character, the attention to detail in every aspect of production. It's beer that bridges the gap between accessibility and complexity, perfect for our diverse Fiveways community.

Supporting Independent Brighton Brewing

When we choose to stock Hand Brew Co, we're making a statement about what matters to us as a craft beer taproom. We could easily fill our lines with mass-produced alternatives, but that's not who we are. Every pint of Toad Licker we pour represents our commitment to authentic, local brewing.

Hand Brew Co's journey from a cramped tower brewery to a respected Sussex operation proves what's possible when you focus on quality over quantity. They've grown without compromising their values, expanded without losing their local identity, and succeeded while staying true to their Brighton roots.

This is exactly the kind of brewery we want to champion at Lost and Found. Independent. Local. Uncompromising in their pursuit of great beer. When you visit our Brighton taproom, you're not just trying exceptional craft beer: you're participating in a movement that values authenticity over marketing, community over corporate profits.

The Perfect Pairing: Local Venue, Local Beer

There's something magical about enjoying Hand Brew Co's beers in the heart of Brighton's Fiveways area. Our taproom provides the perfect setting to appreciate what makes these beers special: the relaxed atmosphere, the knowledgeable staff, and the community of beer lovers who gather here to discover new favorites.

Whether you're meeting friends for a casual pint, exploring craft beer taprooms in Brighton, or looking for an independent Brighton venue for your next celebration, Hand Brew Co's offerings provide the perfect backdrop. That first sip of Toad Licker, with its bright grapefruit character and smooth finish, captures the essence of what makes Brighton's beer scene so special.

Come Taste the Difference

Ready to experience what makes Hand Brew Co's beers essential drinking in Brighton? You'll find Toad Licker and other Hand Brew Co selections on our carefully curated taps, alongside the best independent beers from across Sussex and beyond. Each pint tells a story of local craftsmanship, community support, and the kind of brewing passion that makes our Brighton party venue something special.

Visit us at Lost and Found Taproom on Ditchling Road, where the beer is local, the atmosphere is welcoming, and every pint supports the independent spirit that makes Brighton's craft beer scene thrive. Like what you've tasted? Want to try some more? We're here to guide you through the very best of what Brighton brewing has to offer.

Because when it comes to craft beer, local isn't just better( it's everything.)