CaskFinder 4.4.2

This application now incorporates a caching feature for Ale Trail scans, designed to mitigate issues caused by poor network reception. This enhancement ensures users can reliably access pub information without interruption.

IMPORTANT NOTICE – The app exclusively displays beers and brewers registered within the UK Cyclops database. However, it is available for download regardless of your location. In response to user requests internationally, CaskFinder has been expanded to support other countries; nevertheless, its pub-finding functionality is limited to locations within the UK.

It is essential to understand that this app presents only those beers listed in the Cyclops database. It does not add or modify beer entries outside this dataset. All displayed information reflects the data provided by the Cyclops system. This limitation is by design and should be acknowledged accordingly.

The purpose of CaskFinder is to facilitate the exploration and appreciation of Cask Ale across the UK. By integrating data from The Cask Marque Trust’s pub quality inspection scheme and The Cyclops® Beer standardization initiative—both industry-supported organizations—this app utilizes location-awareness features to identify nearby pubs, brewers, and upcoming events.

Locating Cask Marque-certified pubs is straightforward. Over 8,500 such establishments across the UK are included, each recognized for maintaining high-quality cask ales. Users can select the Cask Marque icon within the app to view a map with nearby certified pubs. Selecting a specific pub icon reveals details about the beers it offers, based on its ongoing quality inspections. For those interested in exploring new options, clicking on a beer logo provides comprehensive information from the Cyclops® Beer database, which includes standardized tasting notes contributed by trained inspectors—including head brewers—ensuring credibility and expertise. Users also have the option to rate their favorite beers within the app, creating a personal record of preferred selections.

For enthusiasts of a particular brewer’s portfolio, the app offers insights into additional beers produced by that brewer and displays pubs where their beers are available. Alternatively, users can browse the entire database at their leisure and select any beer at random for more information.

The Cyclops database is regularly updated—new beers and brewers are added continuously, with weekly updates stemming from ongoing inspections conducted by Cask Marque representatives throughout most of the year.

Beyond pub and beer discovery, CaskFinder provides supplementary features such as a comprehensive list of Beer Festivals—including contact details, admission prices, and map directions—a beer-related blog authored by industry expert Pete Brown offering insider insights, and a 'Beer of the Week' spotlight highlighting notable regional selections.

In essence, CaskFinder is a vital resource tailored for beer enthusiasts—it transcends simple directories to become an essential tool for exploring British cask ales and their cultural landscape.

Please note that pub stock levels for specific beers may fluctuate; cask ales are best enjoyed fresh from the brewer. Consequently, availability can change between visits. To avoid disappointment when traveling to sample a particular beer, it is advisable to contact the pub in advance—access to contact details is conveniently available within the app on each pub’s information page.