How to Attend London Craft Beer Festival

The London Craft Beer Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the UK’s craft beer calendar. Held annually in the heart of the capital, it brings together over 150 independent breweries from across Britain and beyond, offering beer enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to sample rare, limited-edition, and award-winning brews in a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or a curious newcomer, attending this festival is more than just drinking beer—it’s an immersive experience in brewing culture, innovation, and local craftsmanship.

With its growing popularity, securing entry, navigating the event, and maximizing your enjoyment requires thoughtful planning. This comprehensive guide walks you through every aspect of attending the London Craft Beer Festival—from pre-event preparation to post-event reflection—ensuring you make the most of your visit. You’ll learn how to plan your trip, understand festival logistics, identify top breweries to seek out, and avoid common pitfalls that can detract from the experience. By following this guide, you’ll transform a simple day out into a memorable journey through the evolving world of craft beer.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Research the Festival Dates and Location

The London Craft Beer Festival typically takes place in late spring, often in May or June, and is hosted at the historic Tobacco Dock in Wapping, East London. This venue, a restored 19th-century warehouse, provides ample space for multiple tasting zones, food vendors, live music, and educational sessions. Dates vary slightly each year, so it’s essential to check the official website—londoncraftbeerfestival.com—as soon as the next edition is announced.

Mark your calendar early. Tickets often sell out weeks in advance, especially for weekend sessions. The festival usually runs over multiple days, with sessions divided into afternoon and evening slots. Choose a date that aligns with your schedule and preferred crowd size—weekdays tend to be quieter, while weekends offer more energy and extended hours.

Step 2: Purchase Tickets in Advance

Tickets are sold exclusively online through the official festival website. Avoid third-party resellers, as they may charge inflated prices or sell invalid tickets. There are typically three ticket tiers:

• General Admission: Includes entry and a branded tasting glass with 8–10 tasting tokens.
• Premium Admission: Offers early entry (usually 1–2 hours before general admission), additional tasting tokens, and access to exclusive brewery showcases.
• Designated Driver Ticket: Provides entry without tasting tokens, ideal for non-drinkers accompanying friends.

When purchasing, select your session carefully. Morning sessions are less crowded and allow more time to explore. Evening sessions are livelier but can become packed, making it harder to interact with brewers. Always confirm your ticket type and session time before completing payment. You’ll receive a digital ticket via email—save it to your phone or print a copy. No physical tickets are issued.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation

Tobacco Dock is well-connected by public transport but has limited parking. The nearest Tube station is Wapping (District and Hammersmith & City lines), a 5-minute walk from the venue. Shoreditch High Street (Overground) and Tower Gateway (DLR) are also viable options, with 10–15 minute walks. Consider using Google Maps or Citymapper to plan your route ahead of time, factoring in potential delays or engineering works.

If you’re driving, note that on-site parking is extremely limited. Nearby paid parking is available at the Royal Docks or Canary Wharf, but these are a 15–20 minute walk away. Rideshare services like Uber or Bolt drop off directly at the entrance. For those staying overnight, consider booking accommodation in Shoreditch, Limehouse, or Canary Wharf—areas with good transport links and plenty of post-festival dining options.

Step 4: Prepare for the Experience

Before arriving, ensure you’re physically and mentally ready. The festival involves standing for hours, walking between booths, and tasting a wide variety of beers. Hydration and pacing are critical. Eat a substantial meal before you arrive—avoid heavy, greasy foods that can clash with hop-forward brews. Bring a small, empty water bottle to refill at the free water stations scattered throughout the venue.

Dress comfortably and appropriately. The warehouse is climate-controlled but can get warm with crowds. Wear breathable fabrics and comfortable footwear—heels are strongly discouraged. A light jacket or sweater is useful, as evenings can turn cool. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes; they can interfere with the delicate aromas of the beer.

Step 5: Arrive Early and Map Your Route

Arrive at least 20–30 minutes before your session begins. This allows time to queue for entry, store coats or bags (free lockers are available), and pick up your tasting glass and tokens. Once inside, take five minutes to study the festival map, which is displayed at the entrance and available as a downloadable PDF on the website.

The venue is divided into zones: UK Breweries, International Brewers, Cider & Perry, Low-ABV & Non-Alcoholic, and Specialty Tasting Areas. Identify the breweries you most want to visit and plot a logical route to minimize backtracking. Prioritize smaller, lesser-known breweries—they often have the most unique offerings and are less crowded than the big names.

Step 6: Use Your Tokens Strategically

Your tasting tokens are your currency. Each token grants you a 1/3 pint (approx. 190ml) sample. With 8–10 tokens included in standard admission, you have room for 8–10 tastings. Don’t feel pressured to use them all. Quality over quantity is key.

Start with lighter styles—pale ales, lagers, or wheat beers—to cleanse your palate. Progress to medium-bodied options like IPAs and ambers, then finish with heavier styles: stouts, barleywines, or barrel-aged beers. This prevents flavor fatigue and allows you to appreciate nuances.

Engage with the brewers. Most are passionate and eager to discuss their process, ingredients, and inspiration. Ask questions like: “What inspired this recipe?” or “Is this a limited batch?” You’ll often receive extra tips or even samples not listed on the menu.

Step 7: Sample Food Pairings and Non-Alcoholic Options

The festival features an impressive selection of street food vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers and vegan tacos to artisanal cheese boards and chocolate desserts. Many pairings are curated to complement specific beers. For example, a smoky porter pairs beautifully with BBQ pulled pork, while a citrusy IPA cuts through fried chicken.

Don’t overlook the non-alcoholic section. The rise of high-quality NA beers has been one of the biggest trends in recent years. Breweries like Heineken 0.0, Athletic Brewing Co., and local UK innovators like BrewDog’s Nanny State offer complex, flavorful alternatives that stand on their own. Many attendees use these as palate resetters between alcoholic tastings.

Step 8: Attend Educational Sessions and Workshops

Beyond tasting, the festival hosts daily workshops led by master brewers, sommeliers, and beer historians. Topics include “The Science of Hops,” “Brewing at Home: A Beginner’s Guide,” and “Pairing Beer with Cheese.” These sessions are free with admission but require advance sign-up via the festival app or at the information desk. Capacity is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Workshops are excellent opportunities to deepen your knowledge and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Take notes. Many brewers share proprietary techniques or ingredient sources you won’t find elsewhere.

Step 9: Capture Memories Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but be respectful. Avoid blocking brewery stations or taking flash photos during tastings. Many breweries have branded signage or limited-edition labels worth documenting. Tag the festival and breweries on social media—you might get featured on their official channels.

Consider downloading the official festival app (available on iOS and Android). It includes real-time updates, brewery profiles, session maps, and a digital tasting journal where you can rate beers and save favorites. You can even scan QR codes at booths to record tasting notes directly on your phone.

Step 10: Know When to Leave

The festival typically ends at 10:00 PM for evening sessions and 7:00 PM for afternoon ones. Last call for tastings is usually 15–20 minutes before closing. Use the final 30 minutes to revisit your favorite booth, purchase merchandise (t-shirts, growlers, or beer kits), or grab a final snack.

Don’t wait until the last minute to exit. Crowds build rapidly as the event winds down. If you’re using public transport, check the last Tube times. The DLR and Overground run until around midnight on weekends. If you’re walking, consider using a rideshare app to avoid delays.

Best Practices

Practice Responsible Tasting

One of the most important best practices is moderation. With multiple beers available, it’s tempting to sample everything. But overindulgence diminishes your ability to taste and enjoy. Use water between tastings. Eat snacks provided by vendors. If you feel lightheaded, step outside for fresh air. The festival staff are trained to assist if needed—don’t hesitate to ask.

Engage, Don’t Just Drink

The true value of the festival lies in interaction. Many breweries produce small-batch, experimental brews only available at events like this. By talking to the brewers, you gain insight into their philosophy, sourcing, and future releases. These conversations often lead to discovering hidden gems you’d never find on supermarket shelves.

Support Independent Breweries

Every purchase you make—from a tasting token to a growler fill—supports small businesses. Avoid defaulting to the most familiar names. Seek out breweries from regions you’ve never tried: Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, or even Wales. Many of these producers have limited distribution, making the festival your best—or only—chance to taste their beer.

Bring a Tasting Journal or Use the App

Even if you’re not a professional taster, keeping a record of what you try enhances your experience. Note the beer name, brewery, ABV, style, aroma, flavor profile, and your overall impression. Over time, this builds a personal database that helps you refine your preferences. The festival app makes this effortless, but a simple notebook works just as well.

Respect the Space and Other Attendees

The festival is a shared experience. Avoid crowding booths, shouting over brewers, or pushing through lines. Be patient. Queue respectfully. Clean up after yourself—dispose of tokens, cups, and napkins properly. Leave the venue as you found it.

Plan for Post-Festival Reflection

After the event, take time to reflect. Which beers stood out? Which breweries impressed you? Did any flavors surprise you? Consider writing a short review or sharing your favorites on social media. Many breweries monitor these platforms and may reach out with future invites or exclusive releases.

Follow Up with Breweries

After the festival, visit the websites or social media pages of breweries you enjoyed. Many offer online sales, subscription boxes, or upcoming taproom events. Sign up for newsletters—they often include early access to new releases or invitations to future pop-ups. Building these connections turns a one-day event into an ongoing journey.

Tools and Resources

Official Festival Website

londoncraftbeerfestival.com is your primary resource. It hosts the complete lineup of participating breweries, session schedules, maps, FAQs, and ticketing. Bookmark it early and check back frequently for updates.

Festival App

Download the official London Craft Beer Festival app before your visit. It features:

• Interactive venue map with real-time location tracking
• Digital tasting journal with ratings and notes
• Push notifications for session changes or pop-up tastings
• QR code scanning to save beer details
• Direct links to brewery websites and online stores

Beer Rating Platforms

Use Untappd or BeerAdvocate to research breweries ahead of time. Search for their most popular or award-winning beers. You’ll gain insight into what to expect and can even check recent ratings from other attendees who’ve tried the same brews.

Transport Apps

Citymapper and Google Maps provide real-time public transport updates, including disruptions and walking times. Uber and Bolt offer reliable rideshare options with estimated arrival times and fare estimates.

Beer Knowledge Resources

For deeper learning, explore these free resources:

• BeerAdvocate’s Style Guide: Learn the characteristics of different beer styles.
• MasterClass: The Art of Beer Tasting: A short video series on sensory evaluation.
• The Beer Bible by Jeff Alworth: A comprehensive reference for beer styles and history.

Local Beer Shops and Taprooms

Before or after the festival, visit London’s top craft beer destinations to extend your experience:

• Beer & Cider (Shoreditch): Extensive bottle selection and knowledgeable staff.
• Beermoth (Camberwell): Weekly taproom events and rare imports.
• The Taproom (Brixton): Focus on local London brewers.
• Beavertown Brewery (Tottenham): Tour the facility and taste exclusive releases.

Newsletters and Communities

Subscribe to:

• RateBeer Newsletter: Weekly updates on new releases and events.
• London Craft Beer Club: Monthly tasting boxes and exclusive invites.
• Reddit r/beer and r/LondonBeer: Active communities sharing tips, reviews, and meetups.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah’s First Festival Experience

Sarah, a 28-year-old marketing professional from Croydon, attended the festival for the first time in 2023. She purchased a General Admission ticket for the Saturday afternoon session. Before arriving, she used Untappd to research breweries and narrowed her list to five: Beavertown, Cloudwater, Magic Rock, Buxton, and a small Cornwall-based brewery called Kernow.

She arrived 30 minutes early, picked up her glass and tokens, and started with a light wheat beer from Kernow. The brewer explained they used locally foraged elderflower, which gave the beer a floral, summery note. Sarah loved it and used her next token on a sour ale from Cloudwater, known for its experimental fruit infusions.

She skipped the popular IPA booths initially, opting instead for the low-ABV zone, where she discovered a 3.8% session IPA from a new East London brewer called Tilted. It was crisp, hoppy, and easy to drink—exactly what she wanted for a long afternoon.

At the end of the day, she attended the “Brewing with Local Ingredients” workshop and learned how to source hops from British farms. She left with a growler of Kernow’s elderflower wheat and a notebook full of new breweries to explore. Two weeks later, she joined the London Craft Beer Club and received her first monthly box.

Example 2: David’s Brewery-Focused Approach

David, a 35-year-old homebrewer from Brighton, attended the festival with a mission: to meet brewers behind his favorite beers and learn new techniques. He purchased a Premium ticket to gain early access and used the app to schedule three workshops: “Dry Hopping Techniques,” “Yeast Management,” and “Barrel Aging 101.”

He targeted only 12 breweries, focusing on those known for innovation. He spent 20 minutes at each booth, asking detailed questions about mash temperatures, fermentation times, and yeast strains. At Buxton Brewery, he spoke with the head brewer about their use of wild yeast cultures and was invited to a private tasting later that week.

He purchased three 1L growlers to take home and used his tasting notes to replicate one of the beers in his garage setup. He posted his process on Instagram and was featured on Buxton’s social feed. Within a month, he was invited to contribute a recipe to their next collaboration brew.

Example 3: The Non-Drinker’s Perspective

Maya, who doesn’t drink alcohol, attended the festival with her partner as a designated driver. She initially thought she’d be bored. But she was surprised by the vibrant atmosphere and the quality of non-alcoholic offerings. She sampled six NA beers, including a rich, chocolatey stout from Athletic Brewing Co. and a tart, fruity sour from BrewDog’s Nanny State.

She also explored the food stalls, trying a vegan jackfruit taco paired with a hazy NA IPA. She attended the “Beer and Food Pairing” demo and learned how flavor profiles work regardless of alcohol content. By the end of the day, she had taken photos of every NA beer label and created a personal guide to the best non-alcoholic craft beers in the UK.

She now hosts monthly “Sober Sip & Share” gatherings with friends, featuring curated NA beer flights. She credits the festival for opening her eyes to the sophistication of alcohol-free brewing.

FAQs

Can I bring my own glass or container?

No. The festival provides a branded tasting glass with your ticket. This ensures hygiene, consistency in portioning, and brand experience. You cannot bring outside containers for tastings. However, you may purchase growlers or bottles to take home at the end of the event.

Are children allowed at the festival?

Children under 16 are permitted during afternoon sessions only, and must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Evening sessions are strictly 18+. There are no dedicated child activities, so plan accordingly.

Can I buy beer to take home?

Yes. Most breweries offer growler fills (1L or 2L) and bottled or canned beer for purchase. Some have limited quantities, so arrive early if you want specific releases. Payment is cashless—cards and contactless only.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Tobacco Dock is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. There are designated viewing areas for workshops. If you require special assistance, contact the festival organizers in advance via their website.

What if I lose my ticket or token?

Digital tickets can be re-downloaded from your email. Lost tasting tokens cannot be replaced. Treat them like cash. The festival does not issue refunds or replacements for lost or stolen tokens.

Are there seating areas?

Yes. There are picnic-style benches and high-top tables scattered throughout the venue. Seating is first-come, first-served and can fill up quickly during peak hours. Consider arriving early if you plan to sit.

Can I bring food from outside?

No. Outside food and drink are prohibited. The festival features over 30 food vendors offering diverse, high-quality options. This policy supports local businesses and ensures safety standards.

Is smoking allowed?

Smoking, including vaping, is not permitted inside the venue. There are designated outdoor smoking areas near the main entrances.

Do I need to book workshops in advance?

Yes. While workshops are free with admission, space is limited. Sign up at the information desk upon arrival or via the festival app. Some sessions fill within minutes of opening.

What happens if it rains?

The festival is held indoors in a fully covered warehouse. Weather has no impact on operations. Rain or shine, the event proceeds as scheduled.

Conclusion

Attending the London Craft Beer Festival is more than a day out—it’s an invitation into a dynamic, passionate, and ever-evolving world of brewing innovation. From the moment you receive your tasting glass to the final sip of a barrel-aged stout, every detail is designed to celebrate the art and science of craft beer. But to truly experience it, you must approach it with intention.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate the festival strategically: from securing tickets and planning your route, to engaging with brewers, tasting responsibly, and leveraging tools that enhance your experience. Real stories from attendees show that the festival isn’t just about beer—it’s about connection, discovery, and personal growth.

Whether you’re tasting your first IPA or you’ve brewed your own batch at home, the London Craft Beer Festival offers something profound: a space where passion is shared, flavors are explored, and community is built—one sip at a time. Don’t just attend—immerse yourself. Ask questions. Try something unexpected. Leave with more than a full glass—leave with new knowledge, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the craft.

As you plan your next visit, remember: the best beer isn’t always the most popular. It’s the one you discover because you took the time to look beyond the label. And that’s exactly what the London Craft Beer Festival was made for.