With a Guinness shortage in the UK, discover alternative stouts like Murphy’s and where to find them in London pubs
London: So, it looks like there’s a bit of a Guinness shortage going on. A spokesperson from Diageo mentioned that demand has skyrocketed in Great Britain lately. They’re doing their best to keep up with the supply and manage distribution.
Is it a stunt or a real crisis? Who knows! But if you’re looking for a pint, head over to the Ramble Inn in Tooting. They’ve got Guinness on tap for just a fiver. You might also find some at Tir Na Nog in Wandsworth and The Devonshire. We’ll keep talking about these spots as long as they keep serving!
While some pubs are still stocked up on Guinness, this situation opens the door to explore other stouts that deserve more love. Murphy’s is a great option. It’s a smooth stout from Cork, Ireland, and some folks say it’s even creamier than Guinness. It’s a bit of a hidden gem in London, though, as not many pubs serve it on draught.
But don’t worry, there are a few places where you can find it. The Montpelier in Peckham usually has it, and The Lord Nelson in Southwark never runs out. Cafe Mondo in Peckham is a trendy spot that serves Murphy’s too. You might also check out The Railway in Streatham, but it’s hit or miss.
Other pubs like Skehan’s in Peckham and The Lamb in Holloway have recently switched to Murphy’s due to the shortage. If you’re in the mood for a proper Irish pub experience, Auld Shillelagh in Stoke Newington is worth a shot, even if it’s not guaranteed. The Boston Arms in Tufnell Park often has it, and Dublin Castle in Camden has been serving it this month.
Another option is Anspach & Hobday’s London Black, a porter that could satisfy your dark beer cravings. They even have an online map showing where it’s available. Then there’s Samuel Smith’s, a quirky brewery that makes its own stout. You can find it in their pubs around London, like the Jon Snow in Soho.
Camden Brewery also has its own stout, mostly available in cans, but you might catch it on draught at their flagship beer hall in Kentish Town. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try Gibney’s, a silky smooth Irish stout served at a bar of the same name in Old Street.
Lastly, BrewDog has its own stout called Black Heart, which you can find in their pubs across London. So, while the Guinness shortage might be a bummer, there are plenty of tasty alternatives to explore!