David Roder is best known as the founder of Rye Waterworks Micropub and Brewery, one of Rye’s best-loved independent breweries. He established the brewery with the aim of producing distinctive, characterful beers while creating a welcoming place where the local community could come together.
Under David’s leadership, the Waterworks venues have become much more than a pub and a brewery. They have grown into popular social hubs, with charity events hosting live music, fundraisers and gatherings for many local organisations. It is also the home of the Ryebellion Drummers, who regularly meet there before performing at civic and community events.
A passionate advocate for independent beers and independent brewing, David has built a reputation for quality, innovation and consistency. Both establishments have received multiple awards from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), reflecting the high regard in which its beers are held.
Those who know David describe him as approachable, generous with his time and deeply committed to Rye. He has quietly supported countless local initiatives over the years, believing that a successful business should play an active role in the life of its community. His enthusiasm, humour and warm welcome have made the Waterworks and the Brewery a favourite meeting place for both residents and visitors alike.
David’s story is one of entrepreneurship, community spirit and a genuine love for the town he serves. He’s also our latest Ryer to submit to Three Degrees of Curiosity. Over to you David!
What three ingredients are essential for a great community?
Conversation, happiness and honesty.
If you could share a pint with any three people, living or dead, who would they be?
My grandfather, my father and my grandmother and here are the reason’s why:
My grandfather for being active in two world wars and never saying anything about it… to be able to ask him questions or listen to him.
My grandmother because I lived with her for around a year. She was such fun and lovely but passed away weeks after I moved out.
And my father as I would have loved him to share a pint with me in the Waterworks and he would be so proud of the pub and the brewery. All who are no longer with us.
What three things would people be surprised to learn about you?
I have crippling psoriatic arthritis, Type 1 diabetes and I often use a walking stick.
What three things make a pub truly special?
Good landlord and landlady, good colleagues behind the bar and talking to strangers that become friends.
What three causes are closest to your heart?
My two illnesses and Parkinson’s.
If people were raising a glass to David Roder in years to come, what three things would you most like them to toast?
Happy Landlord, Bing Bong Landlord Here and Contribution to Rye’s hospitality. Or sourdough, wholemeal and granary.
What are the three ingredients for a happy life
Malts, hops and yeast!
What three things always make you smile?
Family, friends and pets.
If the waterworks could host three well known people who would you choose
Paul McCartney as he likes beer but has never been in! John Lydon (Jonny Rotten) and Ray Winstone.
If your personality was a beer what three tasting notes would it have?
Bitter, old and fruity.
Next week’s Curiosity will be someone well-known in the world of drama.
Image Credits: Kt bruce .