40FT Brewery & Taproom

Listen up, because I'm about to let you in on one of London's best-kept secrets that won't stay secret much longer. 40FT Brewery & Taproom in London's Dalston neighborhood is the kind of spot that makes you feel like you've stumbled into the coolest friend-of-a-friend's backyard party, except this party never ends and the beer is ACTUALLY good.

You know those places that just feel right the moment you walk in? That's 40FT Brewery & Taproom. Tucked away like a speakeasy for beer lovers, this London gem started life in shipping containers (yes, actual 40-foot shipping containers - hence the name!) and has transformed into the kind of place where "just one quick drink" turns into "wait, how is it midnight already?"

Let me paint you a picture: You're sitting in this amazing industrial-chic outdoor space, string lights twinkling overhead, surrounded by the kind of crowd that makes you want to befriend everyone. The air is filled with that perfect mix of excited chatter and music that somehow hits just right. And in your hand? One of their ridiculously good craft beers that makes you wonder why you ever settled for anything less.

THIS IS NOT A DRILL: They've got rotating taps that'll make your beer-loving heart skip a beat. From their own stellar brews (their IPAs are the stuff of legend) to carefully curated guest beers that'll have you texting your friends "YOU NEED TO TRY THIS." And the best part? The staff actually knows their stuff and loves nothing more than helping you find your new favorite beer.

But wait - it gets better. You're not just getting amazing beer; you're getting the full experience. They've partnered with some of the most exciting food vendors in London, including Acme Fire Cult right next door. Imagine: perfectly crafted beer paired with food that makes you want to take pictures before you devour it (no judgment, we all do it).

The space itself? PERFECT for literally any occasion. Meeting up with friends? There's plenty of room to spread out. First date? The laid-back vibe takes all the pressure off. Celebrating something? Trust me, everyone will thank you for choosing this spot. They've even got covered areas for when London decides to London (you know what I mean).

Here's some insider intel: Get there early-ish on weekends if you want your pick of spots. The place fills up fast because, well, word's getting out. And while you're there, don't just stick to what you know - let the bartenders guide you. These people are like beer sommeliers, except way more fun to chat with.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on their social media. They're always hosting events, collaborating with other breweries, and bringing in amazing food pop-ups. Sometimes they even do brewery tours where you can see where the magic happens (and by magic, I mean science, but like, the most delicious science ever).

The whole Dalston Junction area is becoming London's next big thing, but 40FT Brewery & Taproom still feels like that incredible secret spot you want to keep to yourself but can't help telling everyone about. It's about five minutes from the station, which means it's dangerously easy to get to (dangerous because you'll want to come back. A lot.).

Look, I'm just going to say it: If you haven't been to 40FT Brewery & Taproom in London yet, what are you even doing with your life? This is where memories are made, where "quick catchups" turn into epic evenings, and where you'll find yourself planning your next visit before you've even left. Don't be the person who has to hear about how amazing it is secondhand - get yourself down there and thank me later. Your future self will high-five you for it, I promise.