Longwood Brewery on Boxwood Road

About

If you're looking for quality craft beer in Nanaimo, Longwood Brewery deserves serious consideration. Located on Boxwood Road in the Northfield neighbourhood, this operation combines a working brewery with a food service component, making it more than just a spot to grab a pint. With a 4.8 out of 5 rating across 62 reviews, the brewery has clearly resonated with local beer enthusiasts and visitors alike. The fact that it operates as both a manufacturer and service-oriented business means you're getting a more complete experience than at many smaller taprooms around the city.

What sets Longwood apart is its positioning as an upscale brewery operation. This isn't a dive bar or casual neighbourhood pub—the pricing reflects a focus on quality ingredients and craftsmanship. You should come prepared to spend a bit more than you might at a standard bar, but most visitors find the quality justifies the cost. The brewery takes its product seriously, and that commitment shows in how it's been received by the community. If you're accustomed to craft beer culture in other Canadian cities, you'll recognize the approach here.

For practical purposes, keep in mind that Longwood operates weekday hours only, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Friday. This is important if you're planning a weekend visit—the brewery is closed Saturday and Sunday. The weekday-only schedule might actually work in your favour during the work week if you're looking to stop by without crowds. The address is 2046 Boxwood Road, and you can call ahead at (250) 591-2739 if you want to confirm anything before visiting. Their website at longwoodbeer.com will give you additional details about their current offerings and any special releases.

In the context of Nanaimo's brewery scene, Longwood holds its own alongside other established operations like White Sails Brewery and Wolf Brewery. The city has developed a respectable craft beer culture over the past decade, and this brewery fits squarely into that community. The Northfield location places it in a neighbourhood with good accessibility, though you'll want to plan accordingly if you're relying on transit. If you're already exploring craft breweries across Nanaimo, Longwood should be on your list. The high rating and upscale approach indicate a business that's been thoughtful about what it produces and how it serves customers, which is worth experiencing firsthand.