German lager first became popular with UK consumers in the 20th Century, offering a light, refreshing alternative to the heavier fermented ales Brits were used to.
A reputation that has continued to grow, with German beer lagers becoming widely available in the UK today. This is largely thanks to their use of simple, high-quality ingredients, creating an easy drinking profile that suits modern, more casual drinking habits.
In this guide, we explore the top 10 German lagers in the UK, so you can find your new go-to beer to crack open on a Saturday night.
10 Best German Lagers in the UK
There are a lot of great German lagers available in the UK, it can be tricky to narrow down which ones will suit your preferences, especially if you’re new to it.
Below are 10 of the most popular German lagers you can buy in the UK, covering a wide range of styles and tasting notes.
1) Beck’s Premium Lager (4.9%)
Beck’s is a widely recognisable German beer brand, with their premium lager offering a clean, light taste and a dry finish.
Perfect for sipping in front of the TV, Beck’s Premium Lager is a staple choice for those looking for a reliable, familiar, pilsner-style beer.
2) Augustiner Edelstoff (5.6%)
Augustiner Edelstoff is a classic, pale-style helles lager with a layered profile that hits several notes, making it a favourite amongst beer fans.
Its subtle sweetness and herbal notes provide a smooth, well-balanced mouthfeel, ideal for anyone looking for a “step-up” lager.
3) Augustiner Helles (5.2%)
One of the most respected German lagers globally, the Augustiner Helles is all about easy drinkability. The definition of an everyday premium lager.
It features soft malt and citrus notes with a fresh, hoppy finish, making it a great summer beer, best enjoyed cold on a hot day
4) Paulaner Münchner Hell (4.9%)
A classic Munich lager, the Paulaner Münchner Hell offers the perfect balance of gentle sweetness and light hop bitterness.
It’s a smooth, easy going lager that is incredibly versatile, easily enjoyed all-year round for any occasion.
5) Hofbräu Original (5.1%)
Straight from Munich’s most famous brewery, the Hofbräu Original is more fuller-bodied than some of the other popular German lagers in this list.
It delivers a malty backbone with an undertone of subtle spice, a clear frontrunner for those wanting extra depth in their beer.
6) Bitburger Premium Pils (4.8%)
Bitburger Premium Pils is one of Germany’s best selling pilsners and it’s clear to see why. This lager combines dry bitterness with a light and refreshing finish.
A great option to try for pilsner-fans that enjoy sharper, hop-forward lagers.
7) Augustiner Pils (5.6%)
The Augustiner Pils is a classic German pilsner beer, following a traditional recipe that perfectly captures the essence of an iconic pils.
Striking the right balance between moderate bitterness and a touch of sweetness, with floral hop notes woven through, it offers more bite than other lagers. All while maintaining a smooth character and mouthfeel that suits pilsner palettes.
8) Dortmunder Export (5.3%)
A typical example of an “export” style lager, the Dortmunder Export sits in between helles and pils.
It combines sweet and bitter with a slight maltiness, followed by a gentle hop to finish, which is a good starter for anyone who is new to German lager.
9) EKU Hell (5%)
EKU Hell is a traditional Bavarian lager with soft malt tones and a well-rounded flavour. It’s approachable for those that are newer to this style of lager but still feels distinctly German.
The EKU Hell is an opportunity for those looking to try authentic imported German beer in the UK without going to the usual big names.
10) Krombacher Pils
Krombacher Pils is another one of Germany’s best selling pilsners, known for its clean taste and the use of spring water during brewing.
It’s bright, snappy, and very refreshing without being too overpowering. The Krombacher Pils is so popular for a reason, it’s a high quality lager that is easy to come back to again and again, whenever you find yourself reaching for a beer.
Buy German Lager in the UK – Delivered to Your Door
There is more to German lager than just the big name brands you find in the pub.
This list demonstrates some of the best must-try lagers you can find in the UK for those that are new to German lager and long-time beer enthusiasts.
At German Beer you can explore a wide range of lagers to suit your tastes, whether you prefer a soft helles or a sharper pilsner.