Brewery Het Anker

History and Heritage

Founded in 1471, Het Anker stands as one of Belgium's oldest family-run breweries, now in its fifth generation under the Van Breedam-Leclef family. The site in Mechelen's historic Groot Begijnhof preserves original post-WWII copper brew kettles. In the 1990s, Charles Leclef restored the buildings while modernizing fermentation and cooling systems, safeguarding its legacy while embracing innovation. By 2024, whiskey production relocated here for sustainability, uniting beer and distillery stories under one roof.

Brewing Excellence

Het Anker achieves global acclaim with Gouden Carolus beers, including the Classic, a multiple World Beer Awards gold medalist praised for its rich molasses, toffee, pear drops aroma, smooth power, fruity body, and warming finish. Variants like Tripel are brewed in the authentic brew hall. Guided tours reveal the process from kettles to maturation, culminating in tastings of two Gouden Carolus beers and a rooftop view of Mechelen. Duration averages 1 hour 45 minutes; no unguided access in this active facility.

Visitor Experiences

Tours run on fixed schedules: Tuesdays-Wednesdays-Fridays at 15:00 (English), Fridays also 11:00, Saturdays half-hourly 11:00-16:30, Sundays 13:00/14:00. Individuals welcome but must book; groups from €13/person, individuals €16+. The on-site brasserie serves daily 10:00-23:00 (kitchen 12:00-21:00), featuring beer-paired meals like Flemish beef stew and Mechelen Cuckoo with Gouden Carolus. Brewery shop open longer hours for bottles and merchandise.

Practical Details

Reached by 25-minute walk from Mechelen station, bike parking available, or short stroll from Keerdok/Tinel public lots. Not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility-impaired due to 100+ steps; brasserie and shop are ground-level accessible. No dogs on tours; arrive 10 minutes early. Hotel rooms available with check-in from 15:00. Contact +32 15 28 71 41 or info@hetanker.be for groups or queries.

Surrounding Allure

Nestled in the picturesque Groot Begijnhof, Het Anker enhances Mechelen visits amid riverside paths and Rivierenland bike routes. Pair with nearby attractions for a full day, savoring local flavors in a setting where Burgundian traditions thrive.