What is Nottingham Beer & Cider Festival?
Nottingham Beer & Cider Festival is a real ale festival run by volunteers from the Nottingham branch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale. Until 2026 it was called the Robin Hood Beer & Cider Festival, and the new name was introduced for the 2026 event. It is held at Trent Bridge cricket ground, which has hosted it since 2021.
The organisers say it offers around 500 cask and keg beers, plus more than 100 real ciders and perries. It is a relaxed, sociable event rather than a music festival. People tend to come for an afternoon or evening session, try a range of drinks in small measures and eat from the food stalls.
When is Nottingham Beer & Cider Festival 2027?
The 2027 dates have not been announced. The festival usually runs from a Wednesday to a Saturday in early October. It ran from 8 to 11 October in 2025 and from 7 to 10 October in 2026. Based on that pattern, Wednesday 6 to Saturday 9 October 2027 is expected, but check the official site before making plans.
In 2026, Wednesday ran from 1pm to 7pm and was mainly for trade guests, CAMRA members and season ticket holders, with a small number of public tickets. Thursday to Saturday were open to everyone from 12 noon to 10.30pm.
Where is it and how do you get there?
Trent Bridge cricket ground is in West Bridgford, just south of Nottingham city centre across the River Trent. The festival FAQ says it is about a 20 minute walk from Nottingham railway station, and buses to Trent Bridge pass the station often.
There is no parking at the ground. There is a large public car park nearby on Bridgford Road, but as this is a drinking event, the train, bus or walking is the sensible choice.
Tickets and prices
Tickets are sold through the Trent Bridge website, and the 2027 prices have not been published yet. In 2026, advance prices were:
- Wednesday trade day: £10
- Thursday: £15 (£18 on the door)
- Friday and Saturday: £18 (£20 on the door)
- Saturday evening, 6.30pm to 10.30pm: £10
- Season ticket for all four days: £35
Early bird prices were lower still. Entry is free for CAMRA members who show a current membership card, physical or digital. Tickets can be bought on the day, but numbers are limited, especially on Friday and Saturday, so booking ahead guarantees entry.
Where to stay
Most visitors from outside Nottingham stay in the city centre, which has chain hotels, budget hotels and a few hostels within walking distance of Trent Bridge. There are also some hotels in West Bridgford itself. If you study in Nottingham, Derby, Leicester or Loughborough, a day trip by train is straightforward. Check your last train home before you go, as sessions finish at 10.30pm.
Beers, ciders and music
The drinks list is the main draw. Expect brewery bars and stillages of cask ales alongside keg beers, with a large cider and perry bar. The festival says all its real ciders and perries are gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Glasses are halves with a third-pint line, so you can try more styles without drinking large amounts. A full beer list is usually published on the official site closer to the event.
There is live music throughout the sessions, and in 2025 it was based in a marquee in the Trent Bridge Inn courtyard. No 2027 acts have been named. The organisers say quieter areas are available for anyone who prefers to talk. In 2026 the event ran alongside a new wine festival at the ground.
Tips for students
- Bring photo ID. Under-18s are not allowed in, and the festival runs Challenge 21 as part of its licence.
- Bring a contactless card. Beer tokens have been dropped and all bars take contactless. Cash is accepted at CAMRA bars if you ask the bar manager.
- Pace yourself. Many cask beers are stronger than standard lager, so use the third-pint measure and drink water between beers.
- Eat something. There are food stalls on site, and you can also bring your own food, soft drinks and bottled water.
- There are no pass-outs, so once you leave you cannot get back in. Plan your session and your journey home before you arrive.
- The Saturday evening session is the cheapest way in if you only want a few hours.
FAQs
Is it the same as the Robin Hood Beer Festival?
Yes. The Robin Hood Beer & Cider Festival was renamed Nottingham Beer & Cider Festival in 2026. It is the same CAMRA event at Trent Bridge.
Can under-18s go?
No. Under-18s are not allowed in, and you may be asked for ID if you look under 21.
Do tickets need to be booked in advance?
It is recommended. Some tickets are sold on the day, but places are limited at busy times.
Are dogs allowed?
Only assistance dogs are allowed into the venue.
For dates, tickets and the drinks list, visit the official website. For more events, see our festival guide.