CAMRA Great British Beer Festival moves to Birmingham after 34 years in London - Dates announced

After a hiatus in 2024, the Great British Beer Festival (GBBF) is making a triumphant return next summer, and for the first time since 1983, it will be hosted in Birmingham.

The event, organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is set to take place from August 5-9, 2025, at the iconic NEC Birmingham.

The GBBF has been a staple in London for the past 34 years, but due to venue availability issues, the festival is moving to Birmingham. This change marks a significant moment in the festival’s history, bringing it closer to beer lovers in the West Midlands and beyond.

What to expect

Visitors to the festival can look forward to an impressive array of beers, ciders, and perries. The event will feature hundreds of different drinks, including offerings from renowned breweries such as Thornbridge, Greene King, Harvey’s, Siren Craft Brew, and many more.

In addition to the drinks, there will be a variety of food options, entertainment, and pub-style games to enjoy.

For those interested in learning more about their favourite beverages, the festival will offer educational opportunities through the Discovery Bar, where attendees can engage with brewers and explore the ingredients that make their drinks unique.

Champion Beer of Britain competition

One of the highlights of the festival will be the prestigious Champion Beer of Britain 2025 competition. The winners will be announced on the first day of the festival, and attendees will have the chance to sample the top beers in each category.

‘A warm welcome to all’

Festival Organiser Adam Gent expressed his excitement about the festival’s return, stating, "The return of the Great British Beer Festival is a cause for great celebration. I cannot wait to welcome beer and cider lovers from across the UK, and indeed the world, to the NEC Birmingham, where the festival promises to be better than ever before".

With excellent rail and air links, the NEC Birmingham is an ideal location for the festival, making it accessible to both local and international visitors. CAMRA members can also enjoy significant discounts on tickets, adding to the appeal of this much-anticipated event.

The return of the Great British Beer Festival to Birmingham is set to be a landmark event for beer lovers. With a rich history, a new location, and a promise of an unforgettable experience, the GBBF 2025 is not to be missed.

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