Nethergate Brewery Expansion: Trees Arrive as New Beer Garden & Eco Play Space Take Shape

The transformation of Nethergate Brewery has officially begun. With construction underway and the first 18 specimen trees now delivered to the site, the vision for a fully reimagined outdoor experience — complete with a nature-led beer garden and eco-focused playground — is becoming a reality.

As the lead landscape designer for the expansion, Studio Stour is shaping the entire exterior environment. We ensure every space feels grounded in Suffolk’s landscape, sustainable in its approach, and welcoming for the thousands of visitors who enjoy Nethergate each year.

A Brewery Already Rooted in Sustainability

One of the things that makes this project so exciting is Nethergate’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The brewery already runs extensive solar arrays across its roof, and the new expansion strengthens this ethos. It creates a landscape that works with nature, not against it. The outdoor redesign builds on that strong foundation.

The First Trees Arrive — And the Landscape Shifts

There’s always a moment when a project moves from concept to reality. At Nethergate, that moment came this week as we positioned the first batch of trees across the field.

To help visualise the scale and layout, we marked each location using empty beer barrels. This was a fitting and surprisingly effective way to plot out the future beer garden and play zones.

These trees will provide:

• Structure for the new beer garden
• Natural boundaries around the eco play space
• Shade, screening, and seasonal interest
• Strong sightlines toward the new taproom building
• Long-term biodiversity benefits for the site
  
  

It’s amazing how placing trees can immediately shift the atmosphere.

Visualising the Future

Our landscape masterplan will support this vision through:

• Structured tree planting
• Wildflower and pollinator-friendly areas
• Meadow pathways
• Natural play features
• Accessible seating and social pockets
• Sustainable material choices
• Low-maintenance, high-impact planting schemes
  
  

The goal is simple: Create a place people want to spend time in — morning coffee, family afternoons, long summer evenings, or seasonal events.

The Importance of Community Spaces

Creating community spaces is vital. They foster connections among people. A well-designed garden can be a sanctuary for relaxation and enjoyment. It invites visitors to engage with nature. This is especially true for the new beer garden and eco play space at Nethergate.

Designing for Everyone

Our design considers everyone. We want to ensure that all visitors, regardless of age or ability, can enjoy the space. This means accessible pathways and seating areas. It also includes play features that cater to children of all ages. We believe that everyone should feel welcome.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability is at the heart of our design philosophy. We aim to use native plants that thrive in the local environment. This not only reduces maintenance but also supports local wildlife. By creating a biodiverse landscape, we enhance the ecological value of the area.

Engaging the Senses

A well-designed landscape engages all the senses. The sight of vibrant flowers, the sound of rustling leaves, and the scent of fresh earth all contribute to a rich experience. We want visitors to feel immersed in nature. This connection to the environment is essential for well-being.

Seasonal Changes

As the seasons change, so will the landscape at Nethergate. Spring will bring blossoms, summer will offer shade, autumn will showcase vibrant foliage, and winter will provide a serene backdrop. Each season will offer unique experiences for visitors.

Conclusion: A Vision Realised

The expansion of Nethergate Brewery is more than just a project. It’s a vision realised. We are excited to see how the new beer garden and eco play space will evolve. This space will not only enhance the brewery's offerings but also create a lasting connection with nature.

As we continue this journey, I look forward to sharing more updates. Together, we are creating a beautiful, sustainable environment that truly connects with people and their surroundings.

Let’s celebrate this transformation and the positive impact it will have on our community.