With a host of beautiful pubs and brilliant breweries, it’s safe to say that Brummies love a beer or two. And, thanks to the NEC, this city has become pretty successful at hosting large-scale events. So it’s easy to understand why the UK’s most popular beer festival is abandoning the capital for Birmingham.
After 34 years in London—with the first ever held in 1977 at Alexandra Palace—The Great British Beer Festival (hosted by CAMRA) will take place in Birmingham from August 5 to 9. The iconic National Exhibition Centre will host tens of thousands of attendees from across the country to enjoy a mix of craft beers, ales, perrys and ciders.
The festival, which is part of CAMRA’s mission to bring together beer-lovers, will feature more than 500 cask and other beers. Plus, a dedicated cider and perry bar, ‘no and low’ beer, wine and cocktails—catering for everyone! On top, enjoy a selection of food and snacks, and a variety of entertainment, including live music in the afternoons and evenings.
A swathe of renowned UK and international breweries will be in attendance, including St Austell Brewery, Brains Brewery, Green Duck Beer Co, Harvey’s Brewery, Greene King, Siren, Thornbridge, and the Stirchley-based Attic Brew Co. The winner of CAMRA’s much-coveted Champion Beer of Britain competition will also be unveiled at the festival.
“The Great British Beer Festival is a fantastic way to bring people together and has played a leading role for more than half a century in our successful campaigning to protect our pubs and champion cask beer,” said Adam Gent, CAMRA’s Great British Beer Festival Organiser. “Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just curious to try something new… you’re sure to find something you love.”
Tickets to The Great British Beer Festival are £9.50 for General Admission on Tuesday and Wednesday, and then £16 on Thursday to Saturday. For members, they are only £6 on all days. Group tickets (5 for 4) are also available. To learn more, head here.