The transformation of Nethergate Brewery has begun. Construction is under way and the first 18 specimen trees have been delivered, so the plan for a new outdoor space, with a nature-led beer garden and an eco-focused playground, is becoming real.
As lead landscape designer for the expansion, Studio Stour is shaping the whole exterior. Our job is to make every space feel grounded in the Suffolk landscape, sustainable in how it is made and welcoming for the thousands of visitors who come to Nethergate each year.
A brewery already rooted in sustainability
Part of what makes this project so exciting is Nethergate’s commitment to the environment. The brewery already runs extensive solar arrays across its roof, and the outdoor redesign builds on that with a landscape that works with nature rather than against it.
The first trees arrive
There’s always a moment when a project moves from drawings to reality. At Nethergate it came this week, as we positioned the first batch of trees across the field. To show the scale and layout, we marked each tree’s spot with an empty beer barrel, a fitting and surprisingly effective way to plot out the future beer garden and play areas.
These trees will provide:
- Structure for the new beer garden
- Natural boundaries around the eco play space
- Shade, screening and seasonal interest
- Strong sightlines towards the new taproom building
- Long-term biodiversity benefits for the site
It’s amazing how placing a few trees changes the feel of a place straight away.
What the masterplan includes
The landscape masterplan builds on the trees with:
- Structured tree planting
- Wildflower and pollinator-friendly areas
- Meadow pathways
- Natural play features
- Accessible seating and small places to gather
- Sustainable materials
- Low-maintenance planting with plenty of impact
The aim is a place people want to spend time in, whether that’s a morning coffee, a family afternoon, a long summer evening or a seasonal event.
A space for everyone
A good community garden gives people a reason to meet, relax and spend time outdoors. We are designing the beer garden and eco play space so that every visitor, whatever their age or ability, can enjoy it, with accessible paths and seating and play features for children of all ages.
Native planting through the seasons
We are using native plants that thrive in local conditions. They need less maintenance and support local wildlife, which adds to the ecological value of the site. Visitors should notice the colour of the flowers, the sound of the leaves and the smell of the earth.
The planting will change with the seasons: blossom in spring, shade in summer, colour in autumn and a quiet backdrop in winter, so there is something different to enjoy on every visit.
What comes next
I’m excited to see the beer garden and eco play space take shape and grow into a lasting link between the brewery and nature. I’ll share more updates as the work goes on.
Filed under Place stories on 27 November 2025
