Award-winning former head brewer Kevin Kelly has opened a new community-led taproom and events space in the heart of Fife.
The Howe Beer Project, founded by Kelly and his wife Julia McCarthy, is now pouring its own craft beer at Balmalcolm Den, the former home of Muddy Boots farm shop near Cupar.
Kelly, originally from Fife, moved to Colorado in 2012, where he met Julia. The couple spent a decade immersed in the state’s outdoor lifestyle and vibrant taproom culture before returning to Scotland in 2022.
After a career in forestry, Kevin made the move into brewing on his return to Fife, when he joined Loch Leven Brewery as a brewing assistant, quickly assuming responsibility for all production and helping the team win national awards.
Now, inspired by the venues they enjoyed in the US, they have set out to bring that taproom spirit to Fife, serving beer straight from source, with a focus on community, creativity, and direct connection between brewer and drinker.
Kelly said: “Back in Colorado, taprooms aren’t just about the drink – they’re places where people meet after climbing or biking, catch up with neighbours, play games, or unwind with their kids.
“We wanted to recreate something similar here, a space that’s down-to-earth, feels unpretentious, and is rooted in community.”
Unlike a traditional pub, Howe Beer Project brews its own beer on site in small batches, then serves it fresh in the adjacent taproom.
To help bring this concept to life, Kevin and Julia secured a £25,000 loan from DSL Business Finance through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. The funding enabled them to buy a specialist Moravek carbonator – a canning, bottling and carbonation system essential for producing high-quality beer with consistency.
Kevin added: “The loan was the final piece of the puzzle. We had the space, the equipment, and the drive, but the Moravek means we can brew less frequently while keeping the beer tasting its best, giving us more time to focus on the taproom and the people who come through the door.”
Situated in one of the UK’s major barley-producing regions, the couple are also exploring partnerships with local growers and suppliers, and plan to collaborate with neighbouring food vendors and community groups.
Since its inception in 2012, the Start Up Loans programme has provided 558 loans worth £5.24m to start ups in Fife.
Barry McCulloch, senior manager, UK Network, Scotland at the British Business Bank, said: “Howe Beer Project is a brilliant example of what can happen when passionate people invest in their local area.
“Through the Start Up Loans programme, we’re proud to help independent businesses like this get off the ground, offering something distinctive and home-grown, rather than defaulting to big-name brands. Supporting small enterprises not only strengthens local economies but also creates spaces where people genuinely want to spend their time.”
Rekha Welsh, loan officer at DSL Business Finance, added: “Kevin and Julia’s vision for Howe Beer Project stood out from the start – it wasn’t just about brewing great beer, but about creating a welcoming community space rooted in Fife’s identity.
“It’s been a pleasure to support their journey through the Start Up Loans programme. At DSL Business Finance, we’re proud to have played a part in helping them bring this vibrant and inclusive venue to life.”
