Our independently owned and operated brewery started as a passion project by founder Lewis Gaskin in 2015. Originally a tortilla factory, Lewis and his partner Anna moved into the empty warehouse as they hand-built every inch of the brewery and taproom into what it is today. June 2018 saw Searchlight open its doors to the public for the first time and the first pints poured. It now features 18 taps, a beer garden, kitchen and taproom.
Covid. What a story! Four years down the line, and now under the same ownership as Beech Tree, a rad little bar with many craft beers to choose from, Searchlight is fighting back to become bigger and better than before, with some epic home improvements on site to keep our customers as happy and warm as possible. Because, winter time in QT!
BEER GARDEN
Our sunny beer garden is the perfect spot to hangout with your mates and sink a couple of frothies or chow down on some of our delicious grub. It regularly transforms into a stage for live music gigs, mini festivals, comedy and trivia, so be sure to keep an eye on our socials for the latest events. Your fury friends aren't just welcome here, they're encouraged.
taproom
A great spot to chill with a wood fire for the cooler months, loads of board games to beat your friends at and plenty of space to enjoy the beers and good vibes. Proudly open 7 days a week.
Planning an event? Email us your idea, we're all ears.
brewery
Each of our beers are thought of, brewed, tested and packaged right here at the brewery. We have a 12hl brewhouse, 6 tanks and a canning machine so every aspect of that delicious nectar you're drinking was made right here in Queenstown.