Five Refreshing Non-alcoholic Beers to Enjoy this Summer
Summer by the pool calls for an ice-cold beer in hand, but what if you’re after something alcohol-free that still delivers on flavour? Fortunately, the world of alcohol-free beers has evolved far beyond the bland, watery options of yesteryear.
Whether you’re into crisp lagers, hoppy IPAs, or refreshing EPAs, we’ve asked our engineers and some friends of Hydrocare to test and recommend five fantastic alcohol-free brews that are ideal for those sunny, relaxing poolside moments. Best of all, these beers are readily available in your local supermarket, online store or selected drinks shops and promise to elevate your summer experience without the hangover.
1. Big Drop Brewing Co. Pine Trail (IPA)
For hop lovers who don’t want to miss out on that bitter bite, Big Drop Brewing Co.’s Pine Trail IPA is a must-try.
This alcohol-free IPA packs a punch with vibrant notes of pine, citrus, and tropical fruits like grapefruit and mango. Its well-balanced bitterness gives it the depth of a full-strength IPA, while the maltiness ensures it doesn’t feel too light.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or enjoying a barbecue, Pine Trail is a standout choice for those who want a refreshing, full-flavoured beer without the alcohol.
Where to find it: Available in major supermarkets, independent beer shops, and online.
2. Drop Bear Beer Co. Pale Ale (EPA)
Drop Bear Beer Co. has made a name for itself with quality alcohol-free brews, and their Pale Ale is no exception.
This EPA strikes the perfect balance between malt sweetness and hoppy bitterness, offering notes of citrus zest, herbal hops, and a light, crisp finish. It’s an easy-drinking beer that won’t leave you feeling too full, making it an excellent option for extended poolside sessions. Plus, the beer’s moderate bitterness gives it a more sophisticated profile than most alcohol-free options.
Where to find it: Available at independent beer shops and online.
3. Nirvana Brewery Hoppy Pale (IPA)
Nirvana Brewery is a pioneer in the alcohol-free craft beer scene, and their Hoppy Pale IPA is a perfect companion for hot summer days.
It’s bursting with aromatic hops, offering zesty citrus and pine notes, with a touch of tropical fruit for an extra burst of flavour. The malt base is clean and crisp, making it refreshing and easy to drink, while the bitterness lingers just enough to remind you that you’re sipping on a proper IPA. If you’re craving hops, Nirvana’s Hoppy Pale is an alcohol-free winner.
Where to find it: Available in specialist beer shops and online retailers.
4. Beck’s Blue (Lager)
For a light, crisp, and refreshing lager to sip by the pool, Beck’s Blue is an excellent choice.
While it’s a more widely available option, it’s still a standout in the alcohol-free lager category. This beer delivers that classic lager flavour with a light malt body and subtle bitterness, offering the perfect balance of refreshment and flavour.
It’s incredibly easy-drinking and has a clean finish that keeps you reaching for another. Beck’s Blue is ideal for those who want a familiar, no-frills lager experience without the alcohol.
Where to find it: Widely available in supermarkets, independent retailers, and online.
5. Krombacher Alcohol-Free Pilsner (Lager)
For fans of crisp, traditional German pilsners, Krombacher’s alcohol-free version is a top-tier pick.
This lager boasts a light golden colour and a clean, refreshing taste, with subtle hoppy bitterness and a smooth malt backbone. It’s easy to drink and full of flavour, offering a satisfying beer experience without the alcohol content.
With its crisp finish and refreshing nature, it’s an ideal beer to enjoy on a sunny day by the pool, making it perfect for those who love a good lager.
Where to find it: Available in most supermarkets, online beer retailers, and independent shops.
The Hydrocare Team’s Verdict
Just because you’re skipping the alcohol doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the full beer experience. These five alcohol-free brews offer everything from hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink by the pool without compromising on flavour. Best of all, they’re all readily available in the UK, making it easy to stock up for your next sunny day outdoors.
So go ahead, crack open one of these delicious, alcohol-free options, and let the relaxation begin. Cheers to summer, and cheers to great beer—without the booze!
Which is your favourite?
Safety Note: Glassware and swimming pools should never be in the same placse at the same time. Broken glass in a pool is difficult to see and can cause serious injury. Broken glass in a pool means the pool needs to be drained and cleaned, and pumps & filters checked for damage. This can be a very expensive fix for what may have been a simple accident. At Hydrocare, we offer a safe and almost unbreakable alternative to glassware. It is premium quality and hard to distinguish from its glass cousin.
