The 2026 festival is basically Lincoln’s annual pilgrimage for anyone who can identify hop varieties by aroma alone or has ever uttered the phrase “I preferred the 2023 batch.” With more than a hundred real ales, ciders, and perries on offer, it’s the kind of event where you can spend twenty minutes debating the mouthfeel of a mild and no one will judge you. In fact, they’ll probably join in.

Housed in the atmospheric Southside venue—a former church turned community arts space—it’s the perfect setting for worshipping at the altar of cask. Expect everything from local Lincolnshire gems to those elusive “I’ve only ever seen this on Untappd” brews. Add in friendly volunteers, a buzzing crowd of fellow beer obsessives, and a charity tie‑in featuring the iconic Lancaster sculpture, and you’ve got a festival that feels equal parts celebration, reunion, and treasure hunt for your next favourite pint.

Admission is £6 but, as with all CAMRA festivals, members are admitted free. Attendees pay £4 for their commemorative festival glass – this is refunded if they decide not to keep the glass.