The History of the English IPA: The Beer That Travelled the World

What Is an English IPA?

The India Pale Ale (IPA) is one of the most famous and widely enjoyed beer styles today. Known for its bold hop character and golden to amber colour, the English IPA is a distinct variation that dates back to the 18th century, when British brewers developed a beer strong enough to withstand long sea voyages to India.

Unlike its American counterparts, which often emphasise citrusy and piney flavours, traditional English IPAs have a balanced malt backbone, with earthy, floral, and slightly spicy hop notes from varieties like Fuggles and East Kent Goldings.

Why Is IPA So Bitter? The Science Behind the Hops

One defining trait of an IPA is its higher hop content, which gives the beer a distinct bitterness. But this was not originally for taste—it was for survival.

During the 1700s, British troops, officials, and traders stationed in India craved beer from home. However, most beer styles of the time, such as Porter, spoiled during the six-month journey around the Cape of Good Hope.

To solve this, brewers—most notably George Hodgson of Bow Brewery in London—began crafting a pale ale with:
✅ Increased alcohol content, which acted as a preservative
✅ Higher hop levels, as hops contain natural antibacterial properties
✅ A drier finish, reducing residual sugars that could lead to spoilage

This early “October Beer”, originally brewed for ageing, became the first India Pale Ale. By the early 19th century, it had evolved into a highly sought-after beer style across the British Empire.

How English IPAs Evolved

As refrigeration and brewing technology improved, IPAs were no longer necessary for preservation, and their popularity waned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

However, the craft beer revolution of the 1980s and 1990s reignited interest in the style, first in America and then back in Britain. While American IPAs became known for their intense bitterness and tropical fruit flavours, modern English IPAs have retained a softer, malt-forward balance while still showcasing the distinctive qualities of British hops.

A Modern Take on Tradition: Archetype

At Tūn Brewing, we believe in honouring brewing history while embracing modern craft innovation. That’s why we created Archetype, a 6% ABV English IPA that blends the classic balance of malt and hops with contemporary brewing techniques.

Brewed with new-generation English hops from Charles Faram and a Maris Otter malt base, Archetype offers a rich, nuanced flavour that celebrates the legacy of the original IPA while appealing to today’s beer lovers.

You can try Archetype at select venues in Manchester or purchase it directly from our website.

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The IPA Legacy Lives On

From its origins as a beer for British sailors to a staple of craft breweries worldwide, the English IPA remains a timeless classic. Whether you prefer a traditional malt-forward version or a more hop-driven modern take, this beer continues to evolve while staying true to its bold, adventurous spirit.

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