Manchester Beer & Cider Festival
Overview
The Manchester Beer & Cider Festival is the North West’s premier event for real ales, craft beers, ciders, and perries. Held at Manchester Central Convention Complex, it features over 700 beverages from independent UK and international producers.
The festival showcases CAMRA-endorsed real ales alongside cutting-edge brews from modern microbreweries. Cider and perry bars highlight traditional and innovative fruit fermentations. Visitors can enjoy curated beer trails, tasting notes, and brewery spotlights.
Food stalls offer hot meals, snacks, and local delicacies to pair with drinks. Seating areas, live acoustic sets, and pub games help maintain a social, enjoyable atmosphere.
The event is staffed by volunteers and draws a friendly, knowledgeable crowd. Whether a seasoned beer aficionado or new to cask ales, attendees are welcomed and encouraged to explore.
With a focus on education and appreciation, Manchester Beer & Cider Festival celebrates the region’s proud brewing heritage and supports local producers with a high-profile platform.
How to get there
The fastest and most convenient way is via Manchester Metrolink:
St Peter’s Square tram stop is just a 3-minute walk from the venue. Nearly all Metrolink lines stop here except one branch, with clear signage to Manchester Central
Deansgate-Castlefield tram stop is another great option—also around 5 minutes on foot
Train
If arriving by train:
Manchester Piccadilly is the main station. It’s about a 20-minute walk, but you can change to
Take the tram from Piccadilly (undercroft) to St Peter’s Square, then walk (~3 min)
Another train option is Deansgate station—connected to the Metrolink at Deansgate-Castlefield, giving quick access
Bus
Buses into the city center drop you near Piccadilly Gardens (10–12 min walk away). From there:
Walk via pedestrian paths to St Peter’s Square, or
Catch a Metrolink tram one stop to St Peter’s Square
Car
Address: Manchester Central, Windmill St, Manchester M2 3GX (use this for sat-nav).
Zoned parking is available in nearby car parks—avoid city centre rush during peak hours.
Check it out
Price and Tickets
Advance tickets include the £3 glass-hire fee
CAMRA members booking in advance also get £4 in beer tokens with their ticket.
Price range is around £45.
Location
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