FAQs

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Frequently Asked Questions

ARE DOGS ALLOWED?

Only assistance dogs are allowed at the festival due to the nature of the event.

ARE DRINKS OTHER THAN BEER AVAILABLE?

Yes, there will be a wide selection of ciders, perries, wines, cocktails and soft drinks for those who prefer something different.

ARE THERE ANY DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE?

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.

CAN I BUY TICKETS AT THE DOOR?

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.

CAN I CAMP AT THE FESTIVAL?

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

CAN I GET A REFUND ON MY FESTIVAL GLASS?

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.

CAN I LEAVE AND RE-ENTER THE FESTIVAL?

Yes, re-entry is permitted, but you will need to get a hand stamp or wristband when leaving to gain access again.

CAN UNDER 18s ATTEND?

Under 18s are welcome to attend with an Adult until 20:00 at which time the event becomes over 18s only.

HOW CAN I GET TO THE NEC BIRMINGHAM?

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/

HOW CAN I PAY AT THE BARS?

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.

HOW CAN I VOLUNTEER FOR THE FESTIVAL?

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.

HOW MUCH DO TICKETS COST?

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

IS THE EVENT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?

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.

IS THERE A SMOKING AREA?

Yes, there is a dedicated outdoor smoking area in the beer garden that you can access via the festival halls.

IS THERE ACCOMMODATION NEARBY?

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.

WHAT ARE THE FESTIVAL OPENING HOURS?

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.

WHEN AND WHERE IS THE GREAT BRITISH BEER FESTIVAL 2025?

The festival will be held from Tuesday 5th August to Saturday 9th August 2025 at the NEC Birmingham.

WHEN WILL TRADE TICKETS BE AVAILABLE?

More information about the Great British Beer Festival's Trade Event will be made available in January 2025, along with the application for tickets.

WHERE CAN I BUY 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.

WHO ORGANISES THE FESTIVAL?

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.

WILL THERE BE BAG SEARCHES?

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.

WILL THERE BE ENTERTAINMENT?

Yes, live music, games, and other entertainment will take place throughout the festival, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees.

WILL THERE BE FOOD AT THE FESTIVAL?

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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