St Austell Brewery revives one of its most iconic beers to celebrate 175th anniversary

As part of its 175th anniversary celebrations, St Austell Brewery has revived one of the most popular beers from its brewing archives.

The South West's largest independent family brewer has brought back Admiral's Ale (5.0% ABV) as a limited-edition release in its 2026 special cask ale range. The commemorative collection combines revived favourites from the brewery's archives with new brews inspired by 175 years of Cornish brewing.

Originally brewed in 2005 to mark the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar, Admiral's Ale is inspired by a remarkable story that links St Austell Brewery to a defining moment in British history.

According to local legend, King George III's messenger, carrying official news of Nelson's triumph from Cornwall to London, stopped for refreshment at St Austell Brewery’s Blue Anchor Inn. The visit created a lasting connection between the pub and one of the nation's most celebrated historical events.

Two centuries later, St Austell Brewery commemorated the occasion by creating Admiral's Ale. Now, the beer is making a comeback as part of the business's milestone anniversary year.

Brewed with Celia and Cascade hops, Admiral's Ale delivers floral, pine and berry notes, resulting in a full-flavoured ale with a bold character worthy of its namesake.

Georgina Young, Brewing Director at St Austell Brewery, said: "Reaching our 175th anniversary has given us the chance to celebrate the beers, people and stories that have shaped St Austell Brewery, while continuing to look ahead to the future.

"We're deeply rooted in tradition. It's hard not to be when you're brewing in an original Victorian brewery where we still mill our malt in the tower. At the same time, we're always looking forward, continuing to innovate while celebrating the beers and stories that have shaped us.

"This year's special cask range draws inspiration from recipes and brewing records dating back to the 1800s. The collection pays tribute to some of the most popular beers we've produced over the years, bringing back old favourites while introducing brews that reflect both our past and present."

Also making a return as part of the special cask range for the remainder of the year are Tinners Best Bitter (3.4% ABV) and Tribute Extra (5.3% ABV), the bigger sibling of St Austell Brewery's bestselling Tribute pale ale.

The special cask range is one of several initiatives marking St Austell Brewery's 175th anniversary, alongside events, collaborations and celebrations of the pubs, people and communities that have shaped the business since 1851.

Admiral's Ale will be available from 1st September for a limited time across St Austell Brewery's 45-strong managed pub estate in the South West, as well as in selected leased, tenanted and freehold pubs across the UK.

ENDS

About St Austell Brewery

St Austell Brewery was founded as a family-owned company in 1851 and has been fuelled by Cornish spirit and independent thinking ever since. Celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, it is the South West’s leading brewing, hospitality and drinks wholesale business.

The company operates two breweries, in St Austell and Warmley (near Bath), following the acquisition of Bath Ales in 2016. Its award-winning beers - including Tribute pale ale, Proper Job IPA and korev lager - are available in pubs and supermarkets nationwide.

St Austell Brewery owns over 160 pubs across the South West, comprising of 45 managed houses alongside managed operator and leased and tenanted sites that are independently run by business partners.

With a network of six distribution centres across the region, from St Columb to Wimborne, the company is the South West’s leading drinks wholesaler. In 2026, it became a majority shareholder in Harbour Brewing Company, expanding Harbour’s distribution footprint and making its high-quality craft beers available in St Austell Brewery pubs and for wholesale customers.

Proud of its heritage and inspired by the future, St Austell Brewery is brewing great experiences for generations to come.

www.staustellbrewery.co.uk

For more information contact:

Charlotte TurnerPress Officer

charlotte.turner@staustellbrewery.co.uk07977 564 900

Megan ChuterHead of Communications

megan.chuter@staustellbrewery.co.uk07970 379 690