A Celebration of Ale, Cider and Prosecco in one of Warwick’s most historic landmarks
The Lord Leycester Beer Festival will whet Warwick’s thirst with 20 beers, eight ciders, and a prosecco bar, when it returns to The Lord Leycester’s 14th-century Great Hall on Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd February 2025.
Organised by Warwick Court Leet, this annual winter beer festival combines the rich heritage of Warwick with the convivial spirit of traditional British beer culture. Hosted at the historic Lord Leycester Hospital, a medieval guildhall nestled in the heart of Warwick,
the festival provides a unique opportunity for beer and cider enthusiasts to enjoy a diverse range of brews in a stunningly atmospheric setting.
A Venue Steeped in History
The Lord Leycester, an iconic landmark in Warwick, serves as the perfect backdrop for this community event. Originally founded in the 14th century as a guild for Warwick’s craftsmen, it later became a retirement home for ex-servicemen, or Brethren, in the 16th century under the patronage of Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. Today, the building stands as a preserved piece of English heritage, drawing visitors from around the globe. The beer festival not only offers a chance to taste exceptional beers but also immerses attendees in the history of this venue.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
The festival showcases a wide variety of local and regional ales, beers, and ciders, offering attendees a taste of the best that the craft brewing scene has to offer. The festival’s 20 beers offer everything from smooth stouts and hoppy IPAs to refreshing ciders and
experimental brews. With the addition of eight popular ciders and a prosecco bar there’s a flavour for everyone’s tastebuds to enjoy. The event is also a celebration of the artistry and innovation of small-batch brewers, who take pride in creating unique flavours and styles of both beers and ciders.
A Vibrant Atmosphere
The Lord Leycester Beer Festival is as much about community as it is about beer. It draws locals and visitors alike, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy their drinks in the hospital’s beautiful courtyard or its timbered Great Hall, which features
the commemorative seal of the banquet held by King James I in 1617, which until the recent restorations, had not been seen for some sixty years.
Supporting Heritage and Community
The festival’s organiser – Warwick Court Leet – donates proceeds from the festival to the preservation and maintenance of The Lord Leycester, ensuring its historical significance is protected for future generations. By attending, festival goers can indulge in exceptional
beers while also supporting a vital piece of Warwick’s cultural heritage. The festival underscores the importance of community-driven initiatives in sustaining historical landmarks.
Be part of The Lord Leycester Beer Festival!
The Lord Leycester Beer Festival will be held on Friday 21st February (4pm to 10pm) Saturday 22nd
February (12 noon to 10pm). Tickets often sell out quickly, so early booking is advised. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, a history buff, or someone looking for a memorable and thirst-quenching day out, The Lord Leycester Beer Festival promises an experience that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.
Offering a delightful combination of history, culture, camaraderie and craft beer and cider, The Lord Leycester Beer Festival delivers a unique setting, diverse drink offerings, and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout event in Warwick’s annual calendar. Don’t miss
the chance to raise a glass in this unforgettable location!
· Tickets £8, including Festival Beer glass and Tasting Notes
· Venue: The Great Hall, The Lord Leycester, High Street, Warwick
· Online tickets available from https://warwickbeerfestival.com/
· Tickets also available from The Lord Leycester café, Warwick Visitor Information Centre (Jury Street), Torry’s Hardware & DIY (West Street)