Britannia Brewing Co

The Vibe

Britannia Brewing came to Lake Country with a clear mission — become the community's local. Founded in the Steveston neighbourhood of Richmond in 2016 and drawing its name and nautical spirit from the historic Britannia Shipyards, the brewery grew quickly enough to demand a flagship production facility, and co-owner Lloyd Kinney — who had fallen in love with the Okanagan after moving there five years earlier — knew exactly where it should be. The result is a purpose-built 10,000 sq. ft. brewhouse on Jim Bailey Road, tucked just off the Rail Trail at the edge of Lake Country, that has quickly become exactly what it set out to be — a gathering place, a community hub, and a very good reason to extend a Lake Country wine tour day into the evening. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious — exposed brewery hardware visible through the taproom windows, a sprawling outdoor area with games and firepits, and the kind of easy, welcoming energy that makes a first visit feel like a regular haunt.

The Experience

Britannia's greatest strength is its versatility — there is genuinely something here for everyone in a group, regardless of whether they came to the Okanagan for wine or craft beer. The tasting flight — three beers of your choice in generous pours — is the natural starting point, guided by staff who bring the same enthusiasm and knowledge to beer that the best winery hosts bring to wine. The outdoor picnic arena is one of the most impressive beer garden settings in the entire Okanagan Valley — a sun-drenched acre with firepits, games, and easy Rail Trail access that makes it a natural stop for cyclists working the Okanagan's most scenic recreational route. Wednesday trivia nights have developed a loyal local following, while open mic evenings and seasonal events keep the programming calendar busy year-round. The full-service restaurant — open for brunch, lunch, and dinner daily — rounds out the experience with a menu that has won best restaurant recognition in Richmond and translates beautifully to the Okanagan's relaxed, food-forward culture.

The Beer

Award-winning Head Brewer Mike Nicholson produces a broad and deliberately approachable lineup of craft ales designed to appeal to the full spectrum of beer drinkers — from the first-timer who wants something light and refreshing to the seasoned craft beer enthusiast looking for complexity and depth. The Adrift Blonde Ale is the flagship — bright, crisp, and perfectly sessionable, with just enough hop character to keep things interesting. The Watermelon Gose is the summer standout — a light, tart, and ultra-refreshing sour brewed with fresh watermelon and pink Himalayan sea salt that pairs beautifully with the outdoor patio experience. The London Porter and Oatmeal Stout anchor the darker end of the spectrum, while a rotating seasonal tap program ensures there is always something new worth trying. The full Okanagan local wine list adds a further dimension for guests who want to extend the evening without leaving the patio.

Good to Know

• Best for: Groups, families, cycling enthusiasts, craft beer lovers, mixed groups wanting a break from wine, evening dining and events

• Don't miss: The Watermelon Gose on a warm Okanagan afternoon, the outdoor picnic arena, and Wednesday trivia night if your visit falls mid-week

• Signature beers: Adrift Blonde Ale, Watermelon Gose Sour, West Coast IPA, London Porter, Oatmeal Stout, seasonal rotating taps

• Hours: Open daily from 10:30am — brunch, lunch, and dinner service seven days a week

• Reservations: Recommended for large groups and for the upstairs private event space — walk-ins welcome at the bar and outdoor area

• Rail Trail tip: Britannia is one of the best cycling pit stops on the entire Okanagan Rail Trail — bike access directly from the trail with outdoor racks available