UK: Diageo to launch Guinness Open Gate Brewery in London on December 11

Diageo has announced the opening of Guinness Open Gate Brewery, a new £73m visitor experience and working microbrewery in London’s Covent Garden, Drinks International reported on December 9.

The 54,000ft venue features a working microbrewery where master brewer Hollie Stephenson will create limited-edition craft beers and seasonal specials, as well as guided tours of the brewery, exclusive tasting sessions, and a 360-degree digital experience.

The venue also includes two restaurants led by British chef Pip Lacey, a ground-level courtyard bar and eatery, two retail stores, and a private-hire event venue.

“London has played a critical role in Guinness’ success throughout its history, and two centuries after the black stuff arrived in the UK capital, one in seven pints poured in the city is now a Guinness. This iconic stout has always been about bringing people together, and Open Gate Brewery London builds on that tradition, creating a vibrant space where both visitors and the local community can connect, celebrate, and experience the very best of Guinness hospitality,” said Barry O’Sullivan, managing director of Diageo Great Britain.

Guinness Open Gate Brewery will create up to 250 new jobs and serve as the southern UK hub for Diageo’s Learning for Life programme, offering free hospitality training for those looking to build careers in the industry.

The London site is the fourth Guinness Open Gate Brewery site globally, sitting alongside the original Guinness Storehouse at St James’ Gate in Dublin, and Open Gate Brewery locations in Baltimore and Chicago.

Guinness Open Gate Brewery, London will open its doors to the public on 11 December.