As a long-time Prince Edward County resident, I’ve spent plenty of afternoons exploring the County’s wineries, beaches, and back roads.
But when friends ask me where to grab a great craft beer away from the busiest tourist crowds, one place almost always comes to mind: Gillingham Brewing Company in Hillier.
Now, I should probably keep this one to myself.
After all, every local likes having a few hidden gems that haven’t been completely discovered. But Gillingham is simply too good not to share.
Did You Know About Their Award-Winning Beer?
A standout achievement came in 2024 when Gillingham’s popular Jack’s Black Lager earned a Silver Medal at the Canadian Brewing Awards, one of the country’s most respected beer competitions. The brewery followed that success with an impressive performance at the 2025 Ontario Brewing Awards, winning two Gold Medals for its Triple A American Amber Ale and Vienna Lager, along with a Silver Medal for ES Marzen.
As a local, what impresses me most is that Gillingham doesn’t chase trends. Instead, they focus on brewing classic styles exceptionally well, from crisp lagers and easy-drinking helles to rich amber ales and seasonal specialties. The awards are certainly impressive, but after your first pint overlooking the vineyards in Hillier, you’ll understand why the brewery has earned such a loyal following among both visitors and County residents.
The Drive Is Part of the Experience
One thing I love about Gillingham is that you don’t accidentally stumble across it.
Unlike some breweries that sit right on a main highway, getting here requires a leisurely drive through the countryside. You’ll pass vineyards, farm fields, and quiet rural roads that remind you why Prince Edward County feels so different from the city.
By the time you arrive, you’ve already slowed down a little.
And that’s exactly the point.
The Patio Is One of the County’s Best-Kept Secrets
The first thing many visitors notice is the patio and view.
The brewery’s spacious outdoor seating area overlooks neighbouring vineyards and open countryside, making it one of the most relaxing patios in Prince Edward County.
On a sunny afternoon, it’s the kind of place where you order one beer and suddenly realize you’ve been sitting there for two hours.
As locals, we’ve learned that some of the best County experiences aren’t necessarily the busiest ones. Gillingham has mastered that balance. It feels welcoming and popular without feeling crowded.
Local Insider Tip #1
Visit on a weekday afternoon if you can.
Many visitors are busy winery hopping, which means the patio is often quieter and you’ll have an even better chance of snagging the best seats overlooking the vineyard.
The Beer Speaks for Itself
Let’s be honest.
A great view can only take a brewery so far.
Thankfully, the beer is excellent.
Gillingham Brewing Company has built its reputation on thoughtfully crafted small-batch beers, including refreshing lagers, hop-forward ales, seasonal creations, and easy-drinking favourites that appeal to both beer geeks and casual drinkers.
Local Insider Tip #2
Don’t automatically order your usual favourite.
I always recommend starting with a tasting flight. The rotating beer selection often includes seasonal surprises, and I’ve discovered several new favourites simply by trying something I normally would have ignored.
The Vinyl Records Make It Feel Different
One of my favourite things about Gillingham has nothing to do with beer.
Inside the brewery you’ll find an impressive collection of vinyl records playing throughout the day. It adds personality and warmth that many newer breweries struggle to create.
There’s something wonderfully County about enjoying a fresh pint while listening to a classic album spinning in the background.
It’s genuine. It’s relaxed.
And it perfectly matches the vibe of the brewery.
Stay Until Late Afternoon
If you’ve spent enough time in Prince Edward County, you know the light changes throughout the day.
Early afternoon is beautiful, but late afternoon is when Gillingham really shines.
As the sun starts to drop, the surrounding vineyards and fields begin to glow. The atmosphere becomes quieter, conversations slow down, and suddenly you’re reminded why so many people fall in love with this corner of Ontario.
Local Insider Tip #3
Plan Gillingham as your final stop of the day.
A lot of visitors rush from stop to stop trying to squeeze in as many wineries and breweries as possible. Locals know that the best memories often come from slowing down and staying put.
Grab a pint, find a comfortable spot on the patio, and enjoy the view.
Why Locals Keep Coming Back
Prince Edward County has no shortage of fantastic breweries. You’ll find excellent beer in Picton, Wellington, Bloomfield, and beyond.
But Gillingham offers something that feels increasingly rare. It feels authentic.
There’s no pressure to rush. No over-the-top tourist gimmicks. Just a welcoming atmosphere, beautiful scenery, good music, and very good beer.
As a local, that’s exactly why I keep returning.
And while I probably shouldn’t be sharing one of my favourite hidden spots with the entire internet, some places are simply too good to keep secret forever.
If you’re looking for a brewery that captures the laid-back spirit of Prince Edward County, put Gillingham Brewing Company near the top of your list. Then do what the locals do: slow down, stay awhile, and enjoy the moment
