Beer history: everything you wanted to know

Phil Withington answers questions about the evolution of the ancient drink still enjoyed by millions around the world

Published: July 20, 2025 at 8:00 AM

Save

Beer is one of the world’s most popular alcoholic beverages. From refreshing lagers to amber ales and creamy stouts, there’s a style for virtually every drinker to enjoy. But how did this winning combination of water, hops, malts and yeast become such a staple in the first place? Jon Bauckham talks to Phil Withington to answer listener questions on beer’s boozy history, from medieval monasteries to the modern pub.

Ad

Authors

Jon BauckhamDigital commissioning editor

Jon Bauckham is the digital commissioning editor at HistoryExtra

Ad

Ad

Loading...

Ad

Loading...