Great British Rendition Overview and Experience: Imagine walking into a grand, historic venue in the heart of London, the Olympia Exhibition Centre, filled to the brim with over 900 real ales, ciders...
Imagine walking into a grand, historic venue in the heart of London, the Olympia Exhibition Centre, filled to the brim with over 900 real ales, ciders, perries, and foreign beers. The Great British Beer Festival (GBBF), organized by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is one of the most iconic beer events in the UK. The atmosphere is relaxed, and while it’s a massive event, it feels intimate, with beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike savoring each sip and enjoying good conversation.
The festival lasts for five days in early August, and it’s more than just a beer lover's paradise—it’s a celebration of Britain’s long brewing traditions. When I attended, I found the setup to be charmingly British. It feels as though the whole country has gathered to appreciate one of their greatest national treasures: real ale. It’s a place where you can sample beers you’ve never heard of, but quickly come to love, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being surrounded by fellow beer fans.
Live music, pub games, and food stalls selling traditional British fare add to the event’s lively but laid-back vibe. You can feel the pride that the brewers and organizers take in showing off the best of British brewing.
GBBF focuses heavily on real ale—beer that is brewed from traditional ingredients, conditioned in the cask from which it’s served, and dispensed without additional nitrogen or carbon dioxide pressure. This method produces a smoother, less fizzy beer, with a complexity and depth of flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Some of the iconic beer styles you’ll encounter include:
GBBF doesn’t just cater to traditionalists—there are plenty of options for those who prefer modern craft beer styles, including:
You’ll also find an impressive selection of ciders and perries, often overlooked but beloved by many. With options ranging from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity, there’s something to please every palate.
One of the best things about the Great British Beer Festival is its commitment to offering food that pairs perfectly with beer. As you stroll through the venue, you’ll find food stalls offering a variety of traditional British fare, as well as some international options. Must-try dishes include:
For dessert, treat yourself to a Victoria sponge cake or sticky toffee pudding—classic British sweets that offer a sugary counterpoint to the more robust, roasted beers like porter and stout.
The Great British Beer Festival stands apart because it’s more than just a place to drink beer—it’s a celebration of real ale, and a nod to centuries of brewing history in the UK. There’s a palpable sense of pride in showcasing British beers, but what makes GBBF particularly special is its atmosphere. While it’s a huge festival, it retains the charm and warmth of a local pub. You’ll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow beer lovers, discussing the nuances of different brews, and perhaps learning a thing or two from the CAMRA volunteers who are always eager to share their knowledge.
The festival’s focus on real ale sets it apart from other events, especially in a world where craft beer is often dominated by cutting-edge innovations and extreme flavors. At GBBF, the focus is on the fundamentals—perfecting the balance between malt, hops, and yeast to create beers that are flavorful yet easy to drink.
If you’re planning your first trip to GBBF, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
The Great British Beer Festival is a must-attend event for anyone who loves beer, whether you’re a seasoned real ale aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore traditional British styles. The festival offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the world of real ale, discover new favorite brews, and experience the convivial atmosphere of a British pub—on a grand scale. With its wide selection of beers, ciders, and perries, paired with delicious food and live entertainment, GBBF is a beer lover’s dream come true.
The next one is set occur 5-9 August 2025. The Great British Beer Festival will be hosted at NEC Birmingham Pendigo Way Birmingham B40 1NT
