The Marches Little Beer Shoppe is the retail arm of Marches Ales. Our shop, in Ludlow, Shropshire stocks our own range of real ales, together with a carefully selected range of fine UK and continental beers, wines and ciders. Also available, for home brewers, are ingredients such as malt and hops. The brewery was established in January 1995 in the nearby Marches town of Leominster, by Paul and Georgina Harris, Paul having honed his brewing skills at Sunderland University.

Inside the shop in Ludlow

In December 1998, Marches launched a new range of bottled beers, all of which have been excellent sellers, including our award-winning beer "Marches Gold". The success of these beers reflects the quality of ingredients used in their manufacture. Artificial additives or colouring are never used, nor are any sugars. Nearly all the hops are obtained locally, as Paul believes that their quality is second to none. Daily distribution throughout the region ensures that all beers are in prime condition.

Paul, blending the hops ready for brewing.

The brewery has expanded its size and scope on three occasions since, increasing its capacity for both production and storage. This has been due to the rapid increase in sales throughout the UK, where 90% of its beers are now sold. Marches Ales are now to be found in London and the South, Burton-on-Trent and parts of Staffordshire, and further north in England. Locally, Marches have been gradually increasing the number of public houses and restaurants it supplies.

Since 1996, the Marches Ales brewing empire has increased its 'staff, who will be groomed in due course as brewers and tasters! Matthew is nearly 3 years old and twins rachel and Simon are nearly 2 years old. The Harris clan grows apace!