Local Pints: A Guide to Woodstock's Craft Breweries
title: "Craft Beer Paradise: Local Breweries Near North Woodstock" slug: local-craft-breweries date: 2024-07-15 author: "Inn 32 Staff" description: "Guide to craft breweries near North Woodstock including Woodstock Inn Brewery, Schilling Beer Co., and Base Camp Brewing with reviews and atmosphere details." keywords: "breweries North Woodstock, craft beer NH, Woodstock Inn Brewery, Schilling Beer, Base Camp Brewing, White Mountains" image: "/images/breweries.jpg"
The White Mountains beer scene has exploded over the past decade, transforming North Woodstock into a craft beer destination. Whether you're a serious beer enthusiast seeking rare releases or simply enjoy tasting local brews, the region's breweries offer excellent beers paired with outstanding atmospheres. This guide covers the best breweries near North Woodstock, helping you plan brewery visits that become highlights of your vacation.
The Craft Beer Revolution in North Woodstock
North Woodstock's craft brewery scene reflects broader trends in New Hampshire, where small breweries have become community gathering spaces. Beyond just beer, these establishments create gathering places where locals and visitors mingle, live music happens, and community forms.
The proximity of North Woodstock to Loon Mountain and Franconia Notch has also made it attractive to outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the après-adventure ritual of relaxing with quality beer. Many brewery patrons arrive directly from hiking, mountaineering, or other outdoor activities, making breweries natural social hubs.
Woodstock Inn Brewery
Woodstock Inn Brewery, located right in downtown North Woodstock, is the closest brewery to Inn 32. This establishment combines a full-service restaurant with an onsite brewery, making it perfect for combining food and beer in one visit.
The Experience
Atmosphere - Woodstock Inn Brewery features a warm, welcoming interior that works for everything from casual beer drinkers to fine dining. The restaurant side maintains refined atmosphere while the bar side is casual and friendly. You can dress up or come in hiking clothes—both feel appropriate.
Beers - The onsite brewery produces year-round styles ranging from accessible pilsners and IPAs to creative experimental beers. Tap lists rotate, so repeat visits offer new discoveries. Their flagship beers remain consistent, letting you revisit favorites while exploring new releases.
Food - Woodstock Inn Brewery serves elevated pub fare. Quality ingredients and careful preparation distinguish the food from typical brewery fare. From burgers to fish, pasta to seasonal specials, the menu offers choices for various preferences and dietary needs.
Setting - Windows overlook the Pemigewasset River and surrounding scenery. Evening light reflecting off the river creates beautiful ambiance. Outdoor seating in warmer months offers direct river access.
What to Order
Start with a flight of several beers, allowing you to sample multiple styles without over-committing to any single beer. Staff are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. If you enjoy hoppy beers, ask about their IPAs. Prefer balanced, smooth flavors? Their pale ales or pilsners might appeal.
Pair beer with food carefully. Their lighter beers work well with salads and lighter dishes. Richer beers complement beef and heavier fare. Staff can suggest pairings if you're uncertain.
When to Visit
Woodstock Inn Brewery opens at lunch, making it accessible for casual midday beer and food. Evening can be busier, especially weekends. Arriving around 4-5 PM provides good timing—after lunch rush, before dinner peak.
Schilling Beer Company
Schilling Beer Company, located in nearby Littleton (15-20 minutes south of North Woodstock), represents the larger, more elaborate brewery facility. This destination brewery attracts serious beer enthusiasts alongside casual visitors.
The Experience
Facility - Schilling's taproom features high ceilings, industrial aesthetic, and considerable space. Large windows look out at the Ammonoosuc River. The atmosphere is modern and somewhat sophisticated while remaining welcoming.
Beer Selection - As a larger operation, Schilling produces more beers than smaller breweries. Year-round offerings combine with seasonal and rotating specialty beers. The diverse tap list ensures something appeals to every preference.
Crowds - Schilling attracts larger crowds than smaller breweries. Weekend afternoons and evenings see significant traffic. Arriving early or visiting on weekdays provides better seating and atmosphere. Tour reservations let you learn about beer-making processes while experiencing the facility.
Food and Amenities - Schilling features a full kitchen with quality food options. The taproom includes games, creating entertainment alongside drinking and eating.
What Makes Schilling Special
Schilling's sheer size and complexity appeal to beer enthusiasts wanting to understand commercial brewing. Their beers showcase technical brewing skill and creativity. Tours explain their processes and ingredient sourcing. Even non-beer-focused visitors enjoy the professional atmosphere and food.
Their IPAs, sours, and stouts demonstrate variety. Ask staff about latest releases or limited editions—breweries often hold back special beers for those who ask.
Base Camp Brewing
Base Camp Brewing, located in Lincoln (just west of North Woodstock), takes the concept of "mountain brewery" literally. Designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, Base Camp combines beer with mountain culture.
The Experience
Design Philosophy - Base Camp's name reflects its positioning as a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts. The decor features mountain imagery, climbing equipment, and outdoor gear. The aesthetic celebrates the adventure lifestyle.
Beer Style - Base Camp produces beers designed to appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Their styles lean toward refreshing, food-friendly beers that don't require deep analysis. Perfect for casual drinking after hiking or other mountain activities.
Crowd - Base Camp attracts mix of locals, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The atmosphere feels friendly and approachable, not exclusive or pretentious.
Location Benefits - Base Camp's Lincoln location positions it convenient to multiple activities. You might base camp activities here while exploring nearby attractions.
What to Expect
Base Camp represents "fun beer" rather than advanced beer geekery. Their beers are approachable and delicious without requiring extensive beer knowledge. This accessibility makes Base Camp perfect for people new to craft beer or those seeking casual atmosphere.
The social atmosphere encourages mingling. You'll often overhear conversations about hiking plans, mountain adventures, and local recommendations. The community aspect distinguishes it from purely commercial establishments.
Planning Brewery Visits
Responsible Consumption
- Arrange transportation before visiting breweries (designated driver, taxi, or walking if nearby)
- Never drive after consuming alcohol
- Eat food while drinking to slow alcohol absorption
- Pace beer consumption by spacing visits and limiting quantities
- Stay hydrated with water alongside beer
Beer Tour Etiquette
If visiting multiple breweries in a day:
- Start earlier in the day (breweries open mid-afternoon or earlier)
- Visit smaller breweries first, saving larger ones for later
- Limit to 2-3 breweries maximum
- Eat substantial meals between visits
- Allow time to appreciate each brewery rather than rushing
What to Bring
- Cash (some breweries are cash-only; all accept cards but cash is appreciated)
- Water bottle (staying hydrated matters, especially in summer)
- Appetite for food (pairing beer with food enhances experiences)
- Good attitude and openness to new flavors
Beyond the Breweries
Many breweries serve as gathering places before other activities. You might visit a brewery for lunch, then explore other North Woodstock attractions, returning to another brewery for evening drinks.
The brewery scene also connects visitors with locals. Breweries provide natural places to ask recommendations, learn about local happenings, and understand the community you're visiting.
Brewery Events and Seasonality
Craft breweries often host special events:
- Seasonal beer releases
- Live music performances
- Trivia nights
- Food truck collaborations
- Seasonal celebrations
Visiting brewery websites before your trip helps identify special events during your stay. Attending brewery events provides fuller experiences than standard taproom visits.
Seasonal beers reflect ingredient availability and brewing traditions. Summer beers tend lighter and refreshing. Fall brings rich, complex flavors. Winter offers potent, warming styles. Spring celebrates renewal with fresh approaches.
Pairing Beer with White Mountains Activities
Craft beer complements White Mountains vacation naturally:
- After Hiking - A cold beer satisfies after exertion and replenishes liquids
- Evening Relaxation - Brewery visits provide evening entertainment and social atmosphere
- Rainy Days - Breweries offer indoor activities when weather interrupts outdoor plans
- Local Culture - Breweries represent local entrepreneurship and mountain community values
Staying at Inn 32 for Brewery Exploration
Inn 32's Main Street location in North Woodstock puts you within walking distance of Woodstock Inn Brewery and short drives from other breweries. After brewery visits, return to your comfortable room rather than driving long distances.
If visiting breweries on your evening out, we recommend:
- Walking or using local transportation rather than driving
- Returning to Inn 32 to rest before the next day's adventures
- Enjoying breakfast at the inn before planning subsequent activities
Brewery Recommendations for Different Tastes
IPA Lovers - All three breweries produce quality IPAs. Ask staff for their most hoppy offerings.
Light Beer Preference - Base Camp and Woodstock Inn's lighter styles appeal to those preferring less intense flavors.
Beer Geeks - Schilling offers the most complexity and experimental offerings for serious enthusiasts.
Food Focus - Woodstock Inn Brewery combines best food with excellent beer in single location.
Outdoor Connection - Base Camp captures mountain culture and outdoor community atmosphere.
The Brewery Experience in North Woodstock
Craft breweries represent more than just beer. They're social institutions where community gathers, where skills are celebrated, where ingredients matter, and where people connect around shared values. Visiting local breweries during White Mountains vacations lets you experience these communities while enjoying excellent beverages.
North Woodstock's brewery scene offers perfect additions to your outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxation time.
Book Your Brewery Adventure
Inn 32 at 180 Main Street in North Woodstock positions you perfectly for brewery exploration. Book your stay and discover why the White Mountains craft beer scene has become a destination in itself.
The breweries are calling. Your White Mountains craft beer adventure awaits.