For more than 30 years, Rudgate Brewery has been brewing beers inspired by Yorkshire's rich history. From our beginnings in 1992 in a former ammunition building on the old RAF Marston Moor airfield, through to our modern brewhouse today, we've always believed that great beer should evolve with the tastes of the people who drink it.

That's why we're excited to introduce Ragnar Pale Ale — a refreshing, zesty, vegan and gluten-free pale ale at just 3.4% ABV.

Ragnar isn't just another addition to our range. It represents where modern beer is heading.

The Changing Face of Beer

The way people enjoy beer is changing.

More drinkers are looking for beers that fit modern lifestyles: beers that can be enjoyed during a long afternoon with friends, after a bike ride, at a barbecue, or simply without feeling weighed down. Session-strength beers have seen a surge in popularity as consumers increasingly seek flavour without high alcohol levels.

At the same time, demand for specialist products has grown dramatically. Whether driven by dietary requirements, health-conscious choices, or simple curiosity, more consumers than ever are actively seeking gluten-free and vegan-friendly options.

Historically, these beers often involved compromise. Drinkers expected lower strength beers to lack flavour, and gluten-free products were sometimes viewed as niche alternatives.

Ragnar aims to challenge that perception.

Small in Strength, Big in Character

At 3.4% ABV, Ragnar sits firmly in the session beer category, but don't mistake sessionable for boring.

Brewed to be zesty, refreshing and highly drinkable, Ragnar delivers bright character and crisp refreshment while remaining light enough for those occasions when one pint simply isn't enough.

Most importantly, it has been crafted from the outset to be both vegan and gluten-free, opening the door for more people to enjoy a Rudgate beer without compromise.

Why "Ragnar"?

Anyone familiar with Rudgate knows that Viking history runs through our veins.

The brewery itself takes its name from the ancient Roman road, Rudgate, which runs through the Vale of York. The road's connection to York — or Jorvik, as it was known during the Viking era — inspired many of our best-loved beer names over the years.

Ragnar continues that tradition.

The name immediately evokes one of the most legendary figures in Norse history and mythology: Ragnar Lothbrok. Whether viewed as a historical Viking chieftain, a legendary warrior, or a symbol of exploration and adventure, Ragnar has become synonymous with boldness, ambition and carving your own path.

In many ways, that's exactly what this beer represents.

Rudgate has built its reputation on traditional brewing values, award-winning ales and Yorkshire craftsmanship. Ragnar takes those foundations and carries them into a new era, embracing changing consumer tastes while remaining true to the quality and character people expect from Rudgate.

A New Milestone for Rudgate

Since opening our doors in 1992, we've expanded from a small Yorkshire brewery into an award-winning producer of cask, bottled and keg beers. We've introduced lagers such as Pilsnor and HUS, explored new styles and flavours, and continued to innovate while staying proudly independent.

Ragnar marks another important milestone in that journey.

It's our first beer specifically brewed to be both vegan and gluten-free, created for a growing audience who want modern beer choices without sacrificing flavour, quality or authenticity.

The Future Tastes Refreshing

Beer has always evolved alongside the people who drink it. Today's drinkers want flavour, balance, accessibility and flexibility. Ragnar delivers all four.

Whether you're choosing gluten-free beer, following a vegan lifestyle, looking for a lighter session ale, or simply searching for something refreshingly different, Ragnar is ready to earn its place in your fridge, your local pub and your next gathering with friends.

After all, the Vikings were explorers.

It seems only fitting that Rudgate's latest Viking should lead us into new territory.

Ragnar Pale Ale – Zesty. Refreshing. Gluten Free. Vegan. 3.4% ABV. 🍻