The Merchant Adventurers’ Charity Beer Festival is returning to York for its fourth year this summer, taking place on Friday 3rd and Saturday 4th July. The event, which has quickly become a staple of the city’s calendar, will transform the historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, dating back to 1357, into a massive celebration of Yorkshire brewing.
This year’s festival is expanding with a new marquee and outdoor bar to accommodate growing demand. Inside the Great Hall, visitors will find a Keg Beer Hall with 30 varieties, while the atmospheric Undercroft will house a 50-foot Cask Bar featuring 40 additional beers. Beyond the ale, the event includes a gin and rum showcase by Hooting Owl, a Champagne and wine bar, and food from local street vendors.
The festival serves as a major fundraiser for the Merchant Adventurers’ Charitable Trust, which supports regional education initiatives. Last year, the event raised £28,000, funding projects like the “Merchant Adventurers’ Experience” for primary schools and business courses for local teenagers.
Lee Grabham, Co-founder of Brew York, said:
“2026 promises to be our most impressive festival yet with the addition of a new marquee and outdoor bar. This will help us meet the growing demand and bring even greater variety to the beer offering. Don’t miss out on the highlight of the York beer calendar!”
Jim Richardson, Clerk of The Company of Merchant Adventurers’, added:
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to welcome people into the Hall, celebrate Yorkshire’s outstanding brewing community and, most importantly, generate vital support for our charitable work with young people across the region.”
Tickets are now available for four separate sessions across the weekend. For more information and to book, visit the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall website.
