Centuries of brewing come alive as Blackfriars announces return of beer festival

A beer festival celebrating heritage, local brewing and community spirit is set to return to Newcastle this spring led by Blackfriars Restaurant and St Dominic’s Brewery.

Now in its second year, the three-day celebration will run from 22–24 May 2026, will bring together local brewers, live music and medieval history within the walls of the city’s 13th-century former Dominican friary.

This year’s festival is set to be even bigger, featuring eight local breweries including Flash House, Wear Beer and other regional favourites. Blackfriars’ onsite brewery, St Dominic’s, launched in 2024, will unveil an expanded range of brews including a Porter, Blonde and Triple, alongside its established beers. Visitors can also expect dedicated tasting sessions running all weekend, giving guests the chance to meet the brewers and explore the craft and traditions behind each pour.

The event takes inspiration from the medieval practice of ‘Church Ales’- community gatherings where brewers sold their products to raise funds for local good causes. That tradition continues today, with £1 from every ticket supporting the Newcastle United Foundation. Organisers say the charity partnership is central to this year’s event, celebrating the Foundation’s work in improving lives across the region through the power of football.

The festival will be in Blackfriars’ all-weather, dog-friendly Cloister Garden, where visitors can enjoy BBQ street food, expanded merchandise stalls, and live music performed by singer-songwriter Sam Rea.

Brewing has deep roots at Blackfriars. The Dominican friars once produced their own herb-infused ales on the site, and the friary later became a meeting place for Newcastle’s Brewers’ Guild. Reviving this history, Blackfriars’ modern-day festival brings together the city’s brewing community much as it did centuries ago – uniting local producers, beer lovers and families in a unique cultural celebration.

Rebecca Armstrong, general manager at Blackfriars and event organiser, said:
“We’re delighted to bring the Beer Festival back for a second year – and with an even bigger line-up. It’s a chance to toast Newcastle’s brewing heritage while supporting a charity that makes a real impact in our communities. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply looking for a brilliant day out, there’ll be something for everyone.”

The Blackfriars Beer Festival will take place from 22–24 May 2026 in the Cloister Garden at Blackfriars Restaurant, Friars Street, Newcastle. Tickets cost £9.50 per person, including a commemorative St Dominic’s-branded schooner, festival brochure and first beer.

Tickets are available now at:
https://blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk/events/photo/?tribe-bar-search=beer+festival

For updates about the beer festival, follow on Facebook and Instagram @blackfriarsrestaurant