Hidden away behind the Black Bull in Coniston is the Coniston Brewing Company, run by Ian Bradley.  This small but very perfectly-formed outfit has been cookin' with gas ever since its Bluebird Bitter won the Supreme Champion Beer of Britain Award at the Great British Beer Festival in 1998 - just 3 years after the brewery began production.

While just as flavoursome as Bluebird Bitter, Coniston Old Man offers a slightly darker, copper-coloured option for summer drinking.  Crystal malt and roasted barley are added to the mash tun to bring a nutty, slightly treacly character to the crisp taste in which juicy orange notes from the Challenger hops are well in evidence.  It's a winning combination.

PLEASE NOTE: As this beer ferments in the bottle sediment will exist.  As a guide store upright and pour extremely carefully.