Okell’s brewery
Brewing Excellence Since 1850
Founded in 1850, Okell’s has always been driven by innovation and uncompromising quality. From early advances in steam brewing and cleanliness to a steadfast commitment to pure ingredients, every beer reflects a dedication to craft.
Today, brewing continues at our Kewaigue site, where generations of knowledge meet modern techniques—ensuring every pint upholds the same standards of precision, character, and flavour that have defined Okell’s for over 175 years.
Brewery History
Dr William Okell takes over Dutton’s Brewery at Castle Hill, marking the beginning of his brewing journey. His ambition quickly extends beyond management towards building his own brewery.
Inspired by innovations showcased at the Great Exhibition, Dr Okell adopts a patented steam brewing system. This pioneering approach sets new standards for cleanliness and consistency.
The Falcon Brewery undergoes its first expansion as demand for Okell’s ales grows. Tied-house agreements are introduced, securing a reliable market for the brewery’s output.
A new purpose-built Falcon Brewery opens near Derby Road in Douglas. This expansion reflects the continued success and scaling of the business.
The Isle of Man Pure Beer Act, championed by Dr. Okell, mandated that only water, malt, sugar, and hops could be used in brewing. Unlike the UK’s later relaxations, the Act remained in force.
Okell’s survives the notorious Dumbell’s bank crash and begins a symbiotic investment partnership with wine and spirit merchants Heron & Brearley.
To meet the rising demand for the "take-home" market, the brewery installs its first automated bottling plant, significantly modernising production.
Heron & Brearley duly acquired Okell’s Brewery and further invested in the Falcon Brewery’s capacity with new equipment and the introduction of a new stronger beer called Amber Ale.
A high-speed bottling plant capable of filling 1,500 bottles per minute is opened, celebrated with the release of the specially brewed "Governor’s Ale."
After acquiring rival Castletown Brewery, Heron & Brearley decides to consolidate operations into a modern, singular facility at Kewaigue to allow for future growth.
Celebrating its 175th anniversary, Okell’s remains the Island’s most dominant brewer, still honuoring Dr. Okell’s original commitment to the Manx Pure Beer Act.
The Manx Brewing Purity Law
The Manx Pure Beer Act was introduced to protect the integrity of brewing on the Isle of Man. It states that only natural ingredients – hops, malt, sugar, and water – may be used in the production of beer.
The law strictly prohibits the use of artificial additives or substitutes, ensuring every brew remains authentic and unadulterated. This principle has guided Okell’s since its founding and continues to define the quality and character of its beers today.
Our Brewing Heritage in Action
At the heart of Okell’s Brewery is Head Brewer Kevin Holmes, leading a skilled team dedicated to maintaining over 175 years of brewing tradition while embracing modern innovation.
From carefully sourcing ingredients to refining each stage of production, the team ensures every brew meets the standards set by the Manx Pure Beer Act. Alongside Okell’s heritage ales, they continue to develop seasonal and limited-edition beers, balancing consistency with creativity.
With a shared passion for quality, sustainability, and continuous improvement, the team carries forward the spirit of Okell’s – where heritage meets excellence in every pint.
Brewery Tours
Step behind the scenes and experience the craft of Okell’s like never before. Our guided brewery tours offer a unique opportunity to explore where tradition and innovation come together – led by the very team behind the beer.
You’ll journey through each stage of the brewing process, from raw ingredients to the finished pint, while uncovering the stories, techniques, and passion that define Okell’s. Along the way, enjoy carefully selected samples served in our in-house bar – because the best way to understand great beer is to taste it.
Tours run monthly, last approximately 2.5 hours, and are available to over 18s only. For private group bookings or more information, please contact: brewerytours@okells.co.uk
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For private group bookings or more information, please contact: brewerytours@okells.co.uk