Gladstone Brewing Co.

Located in the heart of Courtenay, Gladstone Brewing Co. is more than just a bar—it’s a true cultural hub for the local community. This unique establishment occupies a former 1948 mechanical garage, which has left an unmistakable mark on its appearance. The industrial style is felt throughout, from the 20-foot ceilings to the decor made from recycled car parts and original tool-shaped taps.

Gladstone Brewing. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Since its opening in 2015 in Canada, this brewery has become a must-visit for lovers of quality beer and authentic atmosphere. They brew a wide range of varieties—from classic IPAs and English porters to exquisite Belgian ales and European lagers. The scale of production is impressive: starting small, the brewery now produces over 3,500 hectoliters of beer per year.

The popularity of Gladstone Brewing is confirmed by high ratings and tourist reviews. It is the perfect place to get a "taste" of Vancouver Island, enjoy lively conversation, and see how an old industrial building can be transformed into a cozy and modern space.

To get in touch with the establishment and clarify details about current beer varieties or table reservations, you can use the following contact details:

You can also follow the brewery's news on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter), where announcements of seasonal new releases and events are regularly posted.

The main reason to visit Gladstone Brewing is, of course, tasting the freshest craft beer. Be sure to order a tasting flight: four small portions of different beers served on a unique flight board made from an old license plate. This is a great way to explore the range before choosing a full pint.

In addition to the drinks, they offer an excellent menu where the star of the show is freshly baked pizza. The combination of crispy dough and house-brewed beer in the fresh air makes for an especially pleasant meal. If you visit during the warm season, be sure to grab a table on the spacious patio—it's a favorite hangout for locals.

The brewery's interior deserves special attention: looking at the details that recall the building's auto-repair past becomes a tour in itself. You can see mechanical tools used as decorative elements and feel the spirit of the 1940s. Additionally, the location makes it easy to combine your visit with a trip to the neighboring paleontology museum or a stroll through the colorful streets of downtown Courtenay.

Finding the brewery is very easy: it is located at 244 4th St, right in the heart of the city. A good landmark is the Palaeontology Centre, which is located directly across from the establishment. Thanks to its central location, Gladstone Brewing is easy to reach on foot while strolling past the shops and restaurants of downtown.

If you plan to arrive by car, there is ample parking available near the building. From other parts of Vancouver Island or Victoria, you can reach the area via the main highways leading into the Comox Valley. For those who prefer public transport, Comox Valley Transit bus routes serve the area, and taxi and ride-sharing services are also available.

The compact nature of the city makes this place an ideal point to end a walking tour of the historic district. Navigator coordinates: 49.691868, -124.998042.

The history of this popular spot didn't begin in Courtenay, but in a garage on Gladstone Street in Victoria. That is where economics graduates and home-brewing enthusiasts Daniel Sharratt and Alexandra Stefanson created their first recipes, inspired by Belgian ales and European lagers. Over time, the hobby grew into a serious business plan, and in 2014, the couple chose the historic 1940s former Seale and Thomson service station to realize their dream.

The official opening took place in early 2015. In those days, the brewery was so popular that stocks from the first two fermentation tanks ran out faster than new batches could mature, sometimes forcing the bar to close for a few days. Nevertheless, support from the local community helped them quickly overcome these "growing pains."

During its first few years of operation, production grew by an impressive 600%, and the staff expanded significantly. Today, Gladstone Brewing is considered one of the pioneers of the craft revolution in the Comox Valley, while maintaining its unique aesthetic and the commitment to quality established back in that Victoria garage.

To fully experience the atmosphere and enjoy the flavors of the drinks, most visitors need between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. This is plenty of time for a tasting flight, a leisurely lunch with a signature pizza, and a look at the unusual interior details.

If you plan to stop by on a weekend when many locals gather on the spacious patio, your visit might last longer—the relaxed atmosphere of the Comox Valley doesn't encourage rushing at all.

Gladstone Brewing welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for both an early lunch and evening gatherings:

• Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

The brewery's location in the historic city center makes it easy to combine a craft beer tasting with a tour of local attractions. A stroll through the surroundings will reveal cozy parks, memorials, and authentic cafes, creating a complete picture of the region's cultural life.