Only assistance dogs are allowed at the festival due to the nature of the event.
Yes, there will be a wide selection of ciders, perries, wines, cocktails and soft drinks for those who prefer something different.
Yes, discounts are available for members of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), Caravan & Motorhome Club members, and group bookings. Check the tickets page for more details.
Yes, tickets will be available for purchase at the door if the event is not sold out. However, buying in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Yes! For the first time ever we have teamed up with the Caravan and Motorhome Club who will be bringing a campsite to the Great British Beer Festival. You do not have to be a member of the CAMC to use the site but the campsite is only for Caravans and Motorhomes. No tents can be used due to the hard standing area the campsite occupies. For more information click HERE
There will be no refunds for festival glasses at this event. You are welcome to take the glass home with you or leave it at one of our collection points at the end of your visit.
Yes, re-entry is permitted, but you will need to get a hand stamp or wristband when leaving to gain access again.
Under 18s are welcome to attend with an Adult until 20:00 at which time the event becomes over 18s only.
Getting to the NEC is very easy by all forms of transport including train, bus & coach, car, plane, bicycle and on foot!
For all the information you need on how to get to the Great British Beer Festival 2025 at the NEC Birmingham, follow this link: https://www.thenec.co.uk/visitors/getting-here/
All bars at the festival will accept contactless payment or beer tokens. Beer tokens can be purchased at the membership stand and the glasses stand.
Volunteers are always welcome! Our volunteer application form is not yet live but keep checking the festival website for details on how and when to apply and get involved.
Ticket prices vary based on the day and type of admission (standard or Plus package). You can find all the ticket information here: https://tckty.camra.org.uk/e/287/great-british-beer-festival-2025
Yes, the NEC is fully accessible with wheelchair access, accessible toilets, and assistance available for visitors with disabilities. Please contact the venue in advance if you have any specific requirements.
Yes, there is a dedicated outdoor smoking area in the beer garden that you can access via the festival halls.
Yes, the NEC is surrounded by hotels catering to different budgets. It’s recommended to book early as hotels can fill up quickly during major events like the festival.
Tuesday 5 August 12:00 - 17:00 (Trade Session)
Tuesday 5 August 17:00 - 22:30 (Public Session)
Wednesday 6 August 12:00 - 22:30
Thursday 7 August 12:00 - 22:30
Friday 8 August 12:00 - 22:30
Saturday 9 August 12:00 - 19:00
Last admission will be 40 minutes before closing and all bars will close 30 minutes before closing.
The festival will be held from Tuesday 5th August to Saturday 9th August 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.
More information about the Great British Beer Festival's Trade Event will be made available in January 2025, along with the application for tickets.
You can buy tickets direct from the Great British Beer Festival website. This year we have also teamed up with AXS who are an official ticketing partner for the event.
The Great British Beer Festival is organised by CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale), a volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to promoting real ale and supporting local breweries.
Yes, we will be conducting bag searches at the entrance to the festival. Please note, we will also be conducting random body searches which will be carried out by same-sex staff.
Yes, live music, games, and other entertainment will take place throughout the festival, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees.
Yes, there will be a wide range of food vendors offering different cuisines, snack and festival favourites. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options will be available.
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