The Captain Cook brewery sits out the back of the White Swan, a traditional 18th century hostelry in the handsome market town of Stokesley. In the heart of Herriot Country, and known as the northern gateway to the North Yorks Moors, Stokesley was mentioned in the Domesday book and is still famed for its bustling Friday markets and its Farmers’ Markets on the first Saturday of the month.

Arguably its most famous son – one James Cook (well Brian Clough played his first football game in nearby Great Broughton) – grew up in the neighbouring village of Great Ayton, where you’ll find his School House Museum (see the useful Captain Cook Country website for more on what you can find and see).

With its choice of 10 real ales, The White Swan is a former Pub of the Year as voted for by the local CAMRA. Your tour begins and ends amidst its antique-laden walls, and, if you are there Wed to Sat, leave time for its award-winning Ploughmans lunch.

Matt Power the brewer brews a range of regulars including the tasty Slipway, plus a series of seasonals, some of which, like the Endeavour, become regulars due to popular demand. Group tours start with an introduction into the art of beer making before a wander around the “brewhouse” followed by a tutored tasting of a few Captain Cook’s beers back in the bar.

Regular events

• Easter Beer & Cheese Festival – over the Easter weekend, with 25 cheeses and 35 beers
• Christmas Beer Festival
• Music nights – The White Swan has weekly folk nights & monthly all-music nights. See website.

Community

Captain Cook Brewery supports a number of local charities.