Stuart Fisher announced Bridbrewer and Taproom’s closure in recent weeks, but has talked of his ambitions
17:55, 12 Nov 2026
(Image: Stuart Fisher)
The owner of a Bridlington brewery and taproom that closed due to rent hikes has talked of his hope to “reboot” the venue elsewhere in the town. Stuart Fisher, 60, set up Bridbrewer and Taproom in 2020 having moved to the town in four years prior.
As a retired Thames Barrier worker, Stuart took up home brewing and became “absolutely obsessed” – putting himself through a course at Bristol University which not only included knowledge about beer making but also about running a licenced business. With the help of friends and family, he launched Bridbrewer in premises on Chapel Street and King Street.
It built a loyal following with drinkers coming to enjoy Stuart’s off-the-wall creations such as Peanut Butter Porter, ‘Wraggy’s Raspberry Ripple’ and ‘Jan’s Jaffa Cake’ – as well as more mainstream flavours. But in September – following a steep increase in rent – Stuart handed the keys back.
“We didn’t have a bad time of it,” says Stuart, who is originally from Essex. “But starting a business selling hazy beers to northerners, that succeeded to a certain extent. That gives me the biggest chuckle to myself.”
Stuart was helped in the running of Bridbrewer by a friend who is a retired publican, his daughter and his friend’s daughter. They initially ran the venue five nights a week, extending to seven nights in the summer months when visitors to Bridlington would be encouraged to try the beers brewed on site, and guest brands.
Having staged a send-off night at which regulars, friends and family came to see off the much-loved venue, Stuart’s house is now full of brewing equipment and taproom furniture, including the wooden bar in his hallway. There are hopes he can put them to use in a follow-up venture.
He explained: “My aim long term is that, if I do find somewhere else in town next year, it’d be nice to sort of reboot the business. But probably in a slightly different format.”
Stuart estimates that he would need to downscale such that the business could be run by him alone – including all of the brewing in 50L batches and serving. That might involve partnering with another business or venue.
“I’m not rulling anything out,” he said. “My house is absolutely full of stuff at the moment – dismantled tables and chairs, the bar’s on the hallway – so if I don’t get the opportunity, I’ll look to selling on the kit. But we’ll see where we go.”
Customers took to social media when Stuart initially announced the closure to encourage a new venture. One said: “Fingers crossed you find a new suitable location and be up and running in 2027! Good luck!” Another wrote: “So many special memories in there, will never forget ’em. Let’s hope you come back stronger and better than ever. That bridpour and also my beer and milk stout were great, also that sour.”
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