New “Indie Beer Fest Wales” celebrates thriving Welsh beer scene
Wales’s independent brewing scene is the only in the UK growing its brewery numbers, and this November those breweries are coming together to pour hundreds of Welsh beers all under one roof.
Indie Beer Fest Wales 2026 is a four-day festival running from the 12th to the 15th November at Down By Here Swansea, bringing together over 35 independent Welsh breweries for a weekend of discovery, conversation, and seriously great beer. With 150+ beers pouring from cask and keg, and live music in the evening sessions, this is the biggest celebration of Welsh brewing culture anywhere.
Indie Beer Fest Wales is testament to the health and ambition of Welsh independent brewing, as SIBA Regional Director Lee Ralph puts it: “Right now, Wales stands alone as the only part of the UK where the brewing scene is actually growing.
That is a massive achievement. Let’s raise a glass to it. Get behind the independent brewers putting their passion into every single pint. We don't do mass-produced here, and neither should you. Keep drinking local, keep supporting independent craft beer, and let’s keep this Welsh scene thriving!”
The breweries at Indie Beer Fest Wales are genuinely independent, no multinational-owned brands, no global conglomerates. These are Welsh businesses, often family-run, using local ingredients and building something from the ground up. With organisers making clear “When you buy a pint at this festival, you are directly supporting the Welsh independent brewing scene and Welsh economy.”
Indie Beer Fest Wales is organised by Welsh Breweries from SIBA (Society of Independent Brewers and Associates), and Down By Here Swansea. Following up on the huge success or the first festival in Haverfordwest, it is a dedicated showcase of the country’s independent brewing industry under one roof.
From Champion Beer of Britain winners to garage startups now shipping across the country, the Welsh independent brewing scene has exploded in recent years. This festival celebrates that growth, giving you the chance to taste 150+ beers, meet the people who brew them, and discover your next favourite pint.
Whether you are a diehard cask aficionado or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, there is something here for everyone.
Indie Beer Fest Wales 2026
Dates: Thursday 12 November – Sunday 15 November 2026
Venue: Down By Here, 210 High St, Swansea SA1 1PE
Beers: 150+ beers on pour — keg and cask — from 35+ independent Welsh breweries
Entertainment: There will be live music on every evening sessions
Included with every ticket: Branded pint glass + beer token to get you started
Trade session: Thursday features a dedicated session for pubs, bars, and hospitality professionals
Tickets: Book now via www.indiebeerwales.co.uk/
Notes to Editors:
Note venue change:
This event was previously scheduled to take place on the 9-11th July in Cardiff however had to be rescheduled due to unforseen circumstances outside of the organisers control.
Four Days, Seven Sessions:
The festival runs across four days and seven sessions. Come for one evening or stay for the weekend. However you enjoy it, this is an event you will not want to miss.
The Venue: Down By Here:
Down By Here on High Street is one of the city’s most welcoming event spaces, affectionately known as "Swansea's living room," this historic venue has hosted everything from live music and cabaret to poetry and comedy nights. Its inclusive atmosphere, storied past, and versatile layout, featuring both the main bar and the 'Down By There' back room, make it the perfect setting for intimate gigs and creative arts events. Down By Here is located just a minute’s walk from Swansea train station.
Address:
Down By Here, 210 High Street, Swansea SA1 1PE
For more information:
For further information email wales@siba.co.uk
Third-party news items are published as received for informational purposes. Publication does not imply endorsement by the Guild. Please use the contact details within the post for any enquiries.
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