Convert Tun (tun) to Barrel (UK) (bbl (UK)) instantly.
About these units
Tun (tun)
A tun is a historical large cask unit commonly used in the wine and brewing industries, typically defined as 252 imperial gallons, or roughly 954 liters. It represented one of the largest standardized cask sizes in medieval and early modern Europe. Originally used for transporting wine, ale, and oil, the tun played an important role in commerce and maritime trade. Because taxes and tariffs were often levied per tun, its definition became central to economic regulation. The size also reflected the maximum volume that could be reliably transported in wooden casks without structural failure. Though obsolete today, the tun provides valuable insight into historical logistics, taxation, and the evolution of standardized container sizes in European trade networks.
Barrel (UK) (bbl (UK))
The UK barrel also varies by context but is commonly set at 36 imperial gallons, or about 163.66 liters. Used in British breweries, distilleries, and older trade systems, the UK barrel historically held ale, beer, and spirits. Barrel sizes were not only a reflection of trade standardization but also taxation. Governments often taxed based on container size, prompting industries to standardize capacities for legal and economic stability. Though less prevalent today due to metrication, the UK barrel remains in use in traditional breweries and historical references. It is an enduring symbol of Britain's long brewing heritage and the complex history of imperial trade.