After water and tea, beer is the most widely consumed beverage in the world, with over 35 billion gallons of beer being brewed globally each year. And it’s not hard to see why as beer’s legacy stretches a long way back across the pages of many historical documents. In fact, the earliest known record of fermented beverages can be traced back to China in 7000 BCE, where archaeologists have found evidence of a mead-like drink consisting of fermented rice, honey and fruit.
Closer to home, the origins of beer are a little hazier but there are records of Roman soldiers drinking Celtic ale in Britain around 100 AD. Since then, the UK’s love affair with the humble pint has gone from strength to strength. Earlier this year, Statista reported that 46,800 pubs were in operation across the UK in 2020, with the 49th edition of The Good Beer Guide stating the number of total independent breweries had increased to 1,902 in 2021, the highest number recorded since its publication began in 1974.
So, with National Beer Day on the horizon, the question is this – how do beer enthusiasts celebrate this hop-based holiday? From brewery tours to beer cruises, brewing masterclasses and more, we’ve pulled together a selection of handpicked brewery experience days and beer gift experiences to help every beer lover celebrate in style this year.
View All Beer Tasting & Brewery Tour GiftsWhile National Beer Day may seem like a clever marketing ploy for breweries to take to social media and flaunt some new rare, small batches of craft beer to get customers through the door, there’s actually a deeper meaning as to why this special day is celebrated annually on June 15th in the UK.
Also known as ‘Beer Day Britain’, June 15th marks the date on which the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215. One of the most famous documents in the world that is still regarded as a cornerstone of the British constitution to this day, the Magna Carta was originally issued by King John of England to establish the principle that nobody – including the King himself – was above the law. But this wasn’t all the Magna Carta documented within its historic text. Amongst all the democratic ideals of freedom and liberty, the ‘Great Charter’ also mentions ale and marks the creation of the ‘Pint’ as a measure!
So, what day could be better to celebrate National Beer Day in the UK? First created by renowned Beer Sommelier Jane Peyton, ‘Beer Day Britain’ is backed by several of the nation’s biggest beer advocacy organisations, from the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
In essence, June 15th is a day for beer lovers to come together to celebrate this historic brew, show support for the beer-making industry and raise a collective toast to beer as the nation’s favourite drink by participating in the ‘National Cheers to Beer’ at 7PM on the big day. Cheers!
From discerning ale connoisseurs to those who simply enjoy a cold pint at the end of a long day, National Beer Day welcomes everyone to raise a glass in celebration. To mark this tasty occasion, we’ve put together some beer-centric ways to see in the festivities, including brewery tours, beer cruises, short breaks and masterclasses. So, without further ado, here are our top handpicked beer experiences!
View All Brewery Tours and Beer Tasting ExperiencesAn ideal gift for those who like to indulge in a tipple or two, a brewery tasting tour is just the tonic. With the chance to learn more about the brewing process as well as getting to taste the fruits of their labour too, our selection of brewery tours are a fantastic way to celebrate National Beer Day.
For those who truly love a pint of craft beer, what could be better than a weekend break dedicated to the good stuff? An opportunity to escape the rigmarole of everyday life, treat a fellow ale connoisseur to a glorious getaway packed to the brim with beer tasting experiences, good food and cherished memories.
Fancy enjoying sights, pints and grazing boards while floating along the River Thames? Say no more. A beer cruise in London is a quirky and unique way to indulge in a pint or two. Sail past Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament and the London Eye with a tasty craft beer in hand and get ready to celebrate in style.
For those who are thirsty to learn more about the history of beer brewing in the UK, an educational beer tour is sure to whet the appetite. Take a trip with a beer expert to several breweries as they share their knowledge and stories about beer production and its illustrious past in the UK.
Ever thought about dabbling in the art of beer-making? If so, look no further than a beer masterclass. Learn the tricks of the trade from master brewers, from the production process to the creation of the new flavours and specialty brews, as well as sampling a number of tasty craft beers too!
