Whilst the weather outside might not make it feel like May, the influx of mild beers and fun festivals into London pubs should at least ensure that you stay wet on the inside too.
3-7 May
The Alma, Canonbury. The pub’s bank holiday beer festival showcases 14 award-winning seasonal ales, from 5 microbreweries. Entry is free and pints are £3.50, with a 10% discount for CAMRA members.
4-7 May
The Windsor Castle, Carshalton. Over 40 ales and ciders from nationwide microbreweries will be on offer, alongside a BBQ in the garden. The Friday night preview kicks off at 7pm, otherwise the festival opens at 12pm every day. The pub will be offering live music throughout the bank holiday weekend, including an open-invite jam session on Monday evening.
11-12 May
Kingston Beer and Cider Festival, Kingston Workmen’s Club and Institute. Over 50 real ales, 12 ciders and perries, food and a spacious outdoor area are all on offer at this CAMRA festival, which celebrates the centenary of Kingston’s Aircraft industry. The festival is open from 11am both days: admission is free before 4pm on Friday, then £3 thereafter, or £2 all day Saturday with a £1 discount for CAMRA members at all times.
16-19 May
Surrey County Cricket Club Beer festival, Oval. Over 50 beers and real ales will be available from 11am each day. Admission into the grounds, including the beer festival, is £10, or free after tea. Beer can be purchased via tokens that area available in books of £5, £10 and £15. Visit the website for match details.
26 May
Crystal Palace Beer Festival, Selhurst Park. Running from 12-7pm, the second annual Crystal Palace Beer Festival will offer up to 100 ales from around the UK, including its special ‘Palace Ale’. The big screen at the event will show highlights from various championships and the Red and Blue Bar will offer live music, pub food and special guest appearances.
Extra beer-related goodness:
Advanced tickets for the Great British Beer Festival are now on sale from the official website.
The Draft House is opening a new pub in Dulwich at 21 Lordship Lane on 8 May.
