Lincoln Beer Festival runs from 21 to 23 May 2026. Entry is £6, with CAMRA members admitted free. A commemorative glass costs £4, refundable if returned.
The Lincoln Beer Festival has become a much-loved fixture in the city’s cultural and social calendar. The Lincoln branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) first staged the event back in 1977, held in the upstairs room of the Stag’s Head pub on Newport. At the time, the focus was firmly on supporting the handful of remaining independent breweries as they fought to survive against the dominance of national brands.
Today, the festival reflects something broader – the resurgence of British brewing and the remarkable variety now produced by craft brewers across the country.
Across three days, around 2,000 visitors are expected to attend, drawn from Lincoln and far beyond, all coming to enjoy the atmosphere and explore the drinks on offer. For regular drinkers of real ale, cider and perry, there is a wide and often unusual selection, with many beers rarely seen in this part of the UK. Local breweries are well represented too, while newcomers can discover just how diverse traditional British drinks have become.
Where Is the Lincoln Beer Festival 2026
The 44th Lincoln Beer Festival will once again take place at SouthSide, the striking former St Katherine’s Church at the junction of High Street, South Park and Newark Road.
Chosen Charity
For 2026, proceeds will go to the Bomber County Gateway Trust, known for its life-size Avro Lancaster sculpture positioned beside the A46 at Norton Disney, which also features in the festival logo.
Timings
- Thurs 21st May – Noon til 11pm
- Friday 22nd May – Noon til 11pm
- Saturday 23rd May – Noon til 9pm
Prices
CAMRA Members – FREE –Join Here.
Non-Members – £6.00 (free after 9pm on 21st & 22nd). Festival Glass – £4.00 (refundable). Paymen is on the door only with card payment preferred.
List of Beers
The full list of beers at the leading British beer festival will appear here.
