Traquair Bear Ale

Traquair Bear Ale is a Scottish beer produced by the Traquair House Brewery, located at the historic estate of Traquair House in Innerleithen, Peeblesshire, Scotland. The brand has a storied history, as Traquair House is considered the oldest continually inhabited house in Scotland, with brewing traditions dating back over 300 years.

The modern brewing operation was revived in 1965 by Peter Maxwell Stuart, the 20th Laird of Traquair, utilizing the original 18th-century brewing equipment that had lain dormant for decades. Today, the brewery remains an independent, family-owned establishment under the guidance of Catherine Maxwell Stuart. The Bear Ale itself is named after the famous Bear Gates at the Traquair House entrance, which have been locked since 1744.

Production remains strictly artisanal and local. The beer is brewed on-site in small batches using traditional methods, including fermentation in oak tuns, which contributes to its unique character. As of 2026, the company continues to be owned and operated by the Maxwell Stuart family, maintaining its status as one of Scotland's most authentic historical craft breweries.