By Tara Sloane, Food & Drink Reporter
Just in time for the festive season, one of the world’s most iconic beer brands has planted a new social hub in the heart of the West End.
After years of anticipation and delay, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery London has officially opened its doors in Covent Garden’s Old Brewer’s Yard, bringing a sprawling 54,000 sq ft beer destination to central London. The venue — part working microbrewery, part restaurant and event space — is set to become a new favourite for after-work drinks, weekend outings and tourists alike.
Beer, Tours and Novel Experiences
Though Guinness’s famous stout will not be brewed on-site (production of the classic stout remains in Dublin), the London brewery will showcase experimental and limited-edition beers created by its master brewer. Visitors can explore the brewing process, sip inventive concoctions and even pour their own pint as part of immersive tastings and guided tours.
This makes the Covent Garden brewery more than just a place for a pint — it’s designed as an experience. Guests can book tours that trace Guinness’s heritage and the creative twists behind the new brews, and there’s a dedicated tasting room where Dublin stout sits alongside contemporary lagers, IPAs, porters and artisan ales.
Food, Festivity and City Culture
Food is an integral part of the offering. Multiple dining options — from refined rooftop seafood at Gilroy’s Loft to hearty British fare at The Porter’s Table, plus a casual courtyard bar area — create a versatile setting for socialising throughout the day and into the evening. Chef-driven menus and rotating seasonal dishes aim to appeal to both London locals and visitors exploring the capital’s culinary scene.
In the courtyard at Old Brewer’s Yard, you’ll find classic pairings like braised beef cheek and Guinness-infused pies, designed to complement the beer list and encourage lingering with friends or colleagues after work.
A Historic Site with Modern Ambitions
The choice of Covent Garden is fitting: brewing once took place on this site more than 300 years ago, and Guinness’s return blends that heritage with a modern social experience right in the centre of London’s entertainment district.
The brewery has been described as a “brand home” for Guinness in London — joining flagship venues in Dublin and the United States — and represents a major investment in the city’s hospitality and cultural landscape.
What to Know Before You Go
The brewery opened on Thursday 11 December 2025, with tours and restaurant reservations available online. It’s a short walk from Covent Garden station, making it easy to pop in for a drink after theatre shows, festive market strolls or holiday shopping.
Whether you’re a Guinness devotee or just looking for a new social destination in London this winter, the Open Gate Brewery offers a fresh way to enjoy one of the city’s most beloved drinks — with plenty of flavour and flair to match.
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