FIRST TIMERS GUIDE
First-Timer’s Guide to Brewfest: What to Bring, Wear & Expect 🍻
Planning your first trip to Berkhamsted Brewfest this September? Welcome aboard — you’re in for a weekend of incredible craft beer, delicious street food, live music, and unforgettable good vibes in the heart of Hertfordshire.
Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a craft beer newbie, this guide will help you prepare like a pro. Here's what to bring, wear, and expect to make the most of your Brewfest 2025 experience!
📍 What Is Berkhamsted Brewfest?
Berkhamsted Brewfest 2025 is a brand-new craft beer festival taking place from September 11–14 in Berkhamsted, right in the heart of the Three Counties. The event features:
50+ UK & international breweries
Live music from local and national artists
Comedy night, family day & community fun
Independent food traders and street eats
A buzzing atmosphere in a historic market town
👉 Book your tickets now on Eventbrite
🧳 What to Bring to Brewfest
If it’s your first time at a beer festival, pack smart. Here’s your essential checklist:
✅ Valid ID
Even if you're clearly over 25, many festivals enforce a strict Challenge 25 policy. Bring a government-issued photo ID.
✅ Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated between tastings. Water refill stations will be available throughout the site.
✅ Festival Ticket (Digital or Printed)
Entry requires your Eventbrite ticket, which can be scanned from your phone or printed out in advance.
✅ Picnic Blanket or Camping Chair (Optional)
For chilled-out sessions, bring something to sit on. There’ll be seating, but a picnic blanket gives you flexibility to lounge in the sun.
✅ Small Backpack or Tote Bag
Carry essentials like, water, suncream, and merch from your favourite breweries to get into the craft spirit.
👕 What to Wear to Brewfest
Dress for comfort and be ready for all British weather possibilities!
🌞 For Sunshine:
Light layers
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Comfy trainers or sandals
🌧️ For Rain:
Waterproof jacket or poncho
Wellies or waterproof shoes
Quick-dry layers
🎉 For Style:
Brewfest is casual but Instagram-worthy. Many guests rock fun beer-themed shirts or merch from their favourite breweries — or even matching festival fits with mates!
🎉 What to Expect at Brewfest
Whether you're coming for a day or the full weekend, Brewfest has something for everyone.
🍺 World-Class Craft Beer
From Mad Squirrel (Hemel Hempstead) to Cloudwater, Verdant, and Omnipollo (Sweden) — explore exciting brews from around the world including IPAs, lagers, sours, stouts, and more.
🎶 Live Music
Each day features an exciting line-up, including Tom Wacket, Grace George, Luke Carey, Ellis & Green and more. Expect local acoustic acts, full bands, and DJ sets.
😂 Comedy Night – Thursday 11 Sept
Kick off the weekend with some laughs. Thursday is all about stand-up comedy and chilled vibes with a pint in hand.
🍔 Local Street Food
Enjoy everything from wood-fired pizza and BBQ to wraps and desserts from top local food vendors.
🎈 Family Funday – Sunday 14 Sept
Bring the kids for a relaxed family-friendly day featuring:
Kids entertainment and games
Music workshops
Local traders
A lower-key beer garden vibe for parents
🚗 Travel & Accommodation
📍 Location: Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire
Easily accessible from Tring, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Watford, Aylesbury, and Amersham.
🚆 By Train:
Berkhamsted Station is a short walk from the venue and connects directly to London Euston.
🅿️ Parking:
There will be local parking, but walking or public transport is encouraged where possible.
🛏️ Accommodation:
Check out local hotels, B&Bs, or consider a weekend Airbnb stay to soak in all four days of the festival!
🤝 Come Prepared to Connect
Want to go behind the scenes?
👉 Volunteer at Brewfest or become a sponsor – find out more here
🎟️ Final Tips Before You Go
Buy your tickets early – Brewfest is expected to sell out!
Follow @berkobrewfest on Instagram for updates, maps & beer drops.
Don’t drive home if you’ve been drinking – take the train or assign a designated driver.
Ready for Your First Brewfest?
Berkhamsted Brewfest 2025 is more than just a beer festival — it’s a celebration of local culture, community, and great times. With everything from hazy IPAs to soulful acoustic sets, this is your chance to close out summer in style.
🎟️ Grab your ticket today and join us for an unforgettable weekend in the heart of Hertfordshire!