Southport Beer Week set to return with ale trail and live events this May

Southport Beer Week is back for 2026, bringing six days of celebrations to the town’s pubs and bars just in time for the bank holiday weekend.

The event, organised by Southport BID, will run from Wednesday 20 May to Monday 25 May, building on a successful debut year that saw venues across the town centre packed with visitors.

At the heart of the festival is a town-wide ale trail, giving people the chance to explore a range of venues, sample cask ales and craft beers, and collect stamps along the way.

Those who complete their trail booklet will be entered into a prize draw, adding an extra incentive to try as many stops as possible.

More than 18 pubs and bars have already signed up, with over 90 different beers expected to be on offer across the week.

Participating venues include traditional favourites like The Guest House, The Masons Arms, The Windmill and The Lakeside Inn, alongside popular craft spots such as Tap and Bottles and newer additions including The Bugle Tap.

Visitors can also expect a packed programme of events, with last year’s festival featuring everything from tap takeovers and meet the brewer sessions to quizzes, live music and food specials. More details on this year’s line-up will be announced closer to the time.

Luke Randles, Head of Operations at Southport BID, said the event is quickly becoming a key date in the town’s calendar.

He said: “The first Beer Week was a resounding success, with both businesses and visitors eager to see it return.

“It was great to see so many people getting involved and there was a real buzz across hospitality venues in the town centre.

“May is shaping up to be a really exciting month in Southport, with other major events also taking place.”

Southport Beer Week is delivered in partnership with local venues and Southport Pubwatch, with artwork for this year’s event once again created by local artist Ruthie Illustrations.

More information and updates will be shared here in the lead-up to the festival.

Southport Heritage Running Day returns this weekend with vintage buses and charity fundraising.

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