Service station launches own beer

The UK’s only family-run motorway service station has stepped up its offer by commissioning a bespoke beer.

Tebay Services on the M6 near Kendal is now selling “Tebay Blonde”, which it describes as “a light blonde ale produced from Marris Otter Pale Ale malt and a new British hop, 103, grown for its alpine, floral tones and a hint of liquorice.”

Setting itself apart from most of the country’s motorway service stations, Tebay shuns big brands and franchises in favour of a farm shop and restaurant serving fresh, local produce. The mallard ducks on its ponds, which have built up a fan base among regular visitors, are celebrated on the label of the new beer.

Tebay Blonde is produced by Cumbria’s Eden Brewery, which was set up in 2011. Commenting on this latest collaboration, brewer Jason Hill said: “”Obviously Tebay is more than just your generic motorway stop-off; it is actually somewhere that people like having the chance to relax and enjoy themselves and the quality and service on offer mean it has become a destination in its own right.

“We are a local brewery and we are lucky that the Westmorland family really loved our other beers and decided to commission their own with us. They are doing a great job of promoting local food and drink to the thousands who pass through the services every month.”

Westmorland Ltd, which owns Tebay Services, is preparing to bring its artisanal service station model further south, with building work currently underway for a new outlet on the M5 near Gloucester.