York CAMRA launches Beer Festival 2026 at Golden Slipper Inn

The launch took place recently at the Golden Slipper in York, which is the Spring Pub of the Season for York CAMRA.

More symbolically, perhaps, The Golden Slipper was also the branch’s first headquarters back in 1974 and was listed in the first ever Good Beer Guide which was launched at a National AGM in York that year.

Festival organiser Karl Smith said: “We’re delighted to be able to announce that tickets are now on sale for our 52nd Beer Festival and the 4th festival at the wonderful St Lawrence Church which has proved a very popular new venue”

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“Our beer festival remains the highlight of the year in York for thousands of local residents and visitors from around the UK who attend to sample the largest collection of real ales; craft beers and ciders available in one place – over 200 in all”

“Be sure to get your tickets early to ensure you get to attend your preferred session and we’ve already seen a big uptake from CAMRA members who enjoy free entry to every session for the first time ever”

This is the fourth annual event at St. Lawrence’s Church at the top of Hull Road, since it  had to relocate from the Knavesmire.

York Camra says St Lawrence’s is a magnificent venue, a spectacular Church (2nd only in size only to the Minster in York) and Hall in attractive grounds.

The 200-plus beers and ciders will cover all types, styles, strengths and come from local, UK and overseas brewers. There will also be gin, wine and mead.

Karl Smith, beer festival organiser (Image: Pic supplied)

York CAMRA will again run a Locale blind-tasting competition, and the CAMRA Festival special brew is being brewed in collaboration with Trig Brewery this year;

There will be a range of ticketed, tutored tasting sessions and presentations from local brewers and beer experts.

The beer list will also go on-line shortly before the festival, and an online live beer list will be running during the festival. Free programmes will be given to attendees on entry.

New this year, inline with CAMRA policy nationally, CAMRA members will have free entry.

The event, which runs from September 16 to September 19 promises a friendly atmosphere and dogs are welcome, The venue wis wheelchair friendly.

York CAMRA has again partnered with York Rescue Boat to help raise funds for their valuable work.

York CAMRA details this year’s festival. (Image: Pic supplied)

There will be a good selection of streetfood vendors by the beer garden with a variety of world cuisines plus a snack bar with traditional pub favourites.

CaMRA adds it is seeking volunteers as well as sponsors for the event, with cask sponsorship costing £100 + VAT.

Advance tickets are now available. A link and lots more information, including volunteering and sponsorship are on our website https://yorkbeerfestival.uk