IN Cumbria, we have a number of fantastic local breweries and microbreweries, who each craft a huge array of beers.

We asked our readers to tell us where their favourite place in the county was, and what made it stand out from the rest.

Here then, in no particular order, are the selection of the best breweries and microbreweries in Cumbria, as recommended by our readers.

1 CARLISLE BREWING CO, CARLISLE

The brewery, at the north of Carlisle in Kingstown, was recommended by many of our readers, including Toby Evans and Tina Campbell Phillips.

Julie Elliot said: “Part of the Spinners Pub in Cummersdale. They have a range of fantastic brews on cask and in bottles.”

Kris Lear added: “Run by friendly people who understand beer, how to make it, keep it and serve. Each of their beers have an individual taste so anyone liking real ales should find one they like.”

2 TRACTOR SHED BREWING, WORKINGTON

Based on Calva Brow, Tractor Shed Brewing in Workington received several comments of praise.

Sammy Fitton said: “Lovely beers and spot. Staff are all right too.”

Frances Donoghue posted: “Tractor Shed do lovely beers and lagers.”

Kevin Hodgson added: “I just love their German-style beers.”

3 HAWKSHEAD BREWERY, KENDAL

The independent craft brewery, on Back Lane, Kendal, was recommended to us by reader Richard Weir.

He said: “Hawkshead Brewery is among the top breweries in the country.

“Innovative, very high quality control, flavour-packed beers.

“And, in the Beer Hall, one of the best brewery tap rooms too.”

4 KESWICK BREWING COMPANY, KESWICK

Located on the aptly named Brewery Lane in Keswick, the craft brewery was set up in 2006. Jamie Tickner said: “Keswick Brewing Company has a good balance of more traditional beers that hit the spot after a walk as well as smaller releases of beers that are a bit different and modern in styles.”

5 ENNERDALE BREWERY, ROWRAH

This west Cumbrian brewery received a bundle of praise from Steve Wharton, who posted: “Ennerdale Brewery Ltd – not only do they have consistently great beer and stand as wonderful ambassadors for what we can produce in Cumbria, but they also work hard at being part of the community.”

6 THE ROYAL BARN, KIRKBY LONSDALE

Jamie Tickner posted: “The Royal Barn is a very nice brewery tap and the beers I’ve had from them have all been great, ranging from a double IPA to a black IPA. Also they have some craft keg offerings.”