At Iron Road Brewing, the railway theme isn’t a gimmick—it’s rooted in the town’s past and the founders’ backgrounds. This Kamloops brewery combines geology, brewing expertise, and a respect for the region’s rail history. Located near Thompson Rivers University, it has become a popular spot for students, locals, and visitors. Iron Road Brewing balances craft beer, community, and events, shaping the city’s social and culinary culture.
How Two Geologists Built Iron Road Brewing
Richard Phillips and Jared Tarswell were both geologists who shared a passion for craft beer. While working in the field, they developed an appreciation for brewing. With Kamloops growing as a regional hub for craft beer, they saw an opportunity to build something unique. The name "Iron Road" honours the railway lines that were essential to Kamloops’ economic history.
Instead of following the typical brewery founder story, Phillips and Tarswell leveraged their scientific mindset. They sought out expertise, hiring Aaron MacInnis, an experienced brewmaster. MacInnis brought technical knowledge and creativity to the brewing process. From their backgrounds to the brewery’s railway-inspired branding, the founders built a brewery that tells a cohesive story.
Strategic Location with a View of Brewing Operations
Iron Road Brewing is located on Camosun Crescent, just a short walk from Thompson Rivers University. The location was chosen for accessibility. The brewery attracts a mix of students, faculty, and community members. The taproom can accommodate around 60 people and is designed with an open view of the brewing equipment. Patrons can see the full process from start to finish.
The taproom frequently hosts events, including live music, making it a gathering point in Kamloops. The venue also accommodates families, enhancing its role as a multi-purpose space. Its industrial decor and connection to the local railway heritage are subtle but effective in building atmosphere.
Signature Beers: Award-Winning and Railway-Inspired
Iron Road Brewing’s beer selection is grounded in balance and consistency. The brewery has developed several signature beers that highlight both local and international styles. Locomotive Lager stands out as a tribute to the railway theme. It’s a traditional lager with a crisp finish, designed to appeal to a wide range of beer drinkers.
Handcar ISA, an India Session Ale, emphasizes hop flavours without the intensity of higher-alcohol IPAs. It's a lighter option for those who want something flavourful yet easy to drink. Loop Line IPA offers a bolder profile with pronounced hop bitterness and aroma. The brewery has earned accolades for its lineup, winning awards at provincial and national beer competitions.
Seasonal releases and experimental brews occasionally rotate through the menu, providing variety for regular patrons. The team experiments with ingredients while maintaining a core commitment to brewing fundamentals.
Food Menu: A Mexican-Inspired Offering
Iron Road Brewing’s food menu is straightforward but well-executed. The focus is on Mexican-inspired dishes that pair with their beer lineup. Tacos, nachos, and quesadillas are regular features. The emphasis is on fresh ingredients and flavour combinations that enhance, rather than compete with, the beer.
The menu design caters to both individual diners and groups. Larger plates are ideal for sharing during events. By offering approachable yet flavourful dishes, the brewery ensures a cohesive dining experience. Food and beer pairing events are occasionally hosted to showcase how their offerings can complement each other.
Community Impact and Collaborations
Iron Road Brewing doesn’t operate in isolation. The founders have established relationships with local businesses and community groups. The brewery participates in citywide festivals such as Brewloops Beer Festival, an event that highlights the craft beer scene across Kamloops. Collaborations with other breweries and local suppliers are common.
In addition to supporting local events, Iron Road Brewing promotes sustainability through sourcing practices. Ingredients are often purchased from regional suppliers to reduce environmental impact. The brewery also supports local artists and musicians through events held at the taproom.
The brewery is more than a place to drink beer. It serves as a hub for connection, creativity, and business collaboration. Kamloops’ identity as a growing craft beer destination is strengthened by establishments like Iron Road Brewing.
What’s Next for Iron Road Brewing?
Iron Road Brewing has established itself as a cornerstone of Kamloops’ craft beer scene. The founders have expressed interest in expanding both their production capacity and beer portfolio. Continued involvement in local festivals and events suggests that the brewery will maintain its role as a community gathering point.
With a solid foundation built on science, history, and collaboration, Iron Road Brewing has positioned itself for long-term success. Its focus on high-quality beer, local partnerships, and customer experience reflects a growing trend in the Canadian craft beer industry. Kamloops, once known mainly for its landscape and outdoor activities, now has a reputation for craft beer, with Iron Road Brewing being a significant contributor to that evolution.
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