About Us
OUR STORY
Founded in 2013, Firebird was born when Bill and Richard rekindled a friendship that began at The University of Birmingham’s Brewing School. Both had studied for an MSc in Brewing Science and Technology before following different career paths: Bill joined and eventually ran the family firm King and Barnes in Horsham, while Richard continued his career with Courage before moving into the wines and spirits industry.
When they reconnected in 2012, it didn’t take too many beers to realise that a joint brewing venture was the only sensible next step. A site was soon secured in a converted brickworks in Rudgwick, a brewing plant was installed, and the first commercial beer, Heritage, was sold at the end of June 2013.
What started as two old friends sharing a pint and a dream has grown into a well-respected brewery across Sussex. Firebird now produces a diverse range of award-winning beers, from traditional favourites to modern craft styles, all brewed with the same passion, curiositty, and attnetion to detail that inspired those first conversations.
Today, the brewery is more than just a place where beer is made. With a welcoming taproom, shop and regular events, Firebird has become a destination for locals and visitors from all round to enjoy delicious, local beer at its source.
Brewing Philosophy
Quality ingredients
Sourced from reputable suppliers, we ensure all ingredients from malts to hop extracts are of high quality, ensuring we can put our full passion and confidence into the beers we brew.
Consistency
We take pride in striving towards brewing excellency, and consistency is a key part of this journey. From developing recipies to packaging the beers, we ensure every step is taken with the final product in mind.
Gluten Free & Vegan
Brewing beer for the enjoyment of everyone is a core value of Firebird brewery. Through the development of our recipes and working with suppliers to source suitable ingredients, we have developed a widely gluten free and /or vegan range of beer.
Local Focus
From stocking local products in our shop, to sourcing Malts and Hops grown just miles down the road, Firebird is all about keeping it local. We are also a proud participant of the Sussex Six Campaign, advocating for other fantastic independent businesses within the county.
Sustainability
Firebird makes sure to take meaningful steps towards a greener future, without compromising on quality. With support from our Landlord and generous local grants, we can make the right decisions which positively impact upon our surroundings, aside from providing delicious beer!
Community
Whether we are booking local musicians, welcoming customers from our local campsites, or finding out what our customers want to see next from Firebird, community is very important to us.
Meet the team
Bill
Richard
Paul
Rich
Sam
Kerry
Chris
Jon
Leah
Our amazing Bar Ambassadors
We'd love to hear from you
Send us your enquiry using the form below, and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible