Christ Church Beer Festival.

Christ Church Swindon is proud to announce the return of its much-loved Old Town Beer & Cider Festival for its 13th year.

The XIII Old Town Beer & Cider Festival – Centurion Edition Set to Be Biggest Yet at Christ Church Swindon.


Running from Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th May 2026. This year’s event, aptly named the Centurion Edition, will be the largest in the festival’s history. It’s featuring an impressive selection of 100 beers and ciders.

It’ll be held across Christ Church, the Community Centre, and surrounding grounds on Cricklade Street. The four-day festival promises a vibrant programme:

• Of entertainment
• Community engagement
• And fundraising with something for all ages

Helping to make it happen

Making the festival possible is the generous support of many sponsors, such as:

• Gel Studios
• DSNY wealth planning

Their backing helps ensure the event continues to grow year-on-year. All while supporting important community causes.

This year also marks the beginning of an exciting new three-year partnership with Guardians Group. They’ve donated a state-of-the-art digital totem display. This new addition will support Christ Church and the festival’s commitment to sustainability with a significant reduction in the need for printed posters and promotional materials. All helping to minimise environmental impact while enhancing the visitor experience.

The festival opens on Thursday evening with a headline comedy night. That’s in partnership with Swindon Old Town Comedy Club, featuring an award-winning line-up led by Esther Manito, known for appearances on Live at the Apollo (BBC One) and Comedy Central Live and Chortle Awards Best Headliner 2026. Supporting acts include Sam Day and Alex Farrow, with hosting by local favourite Sam Michael.

On Friday afternoon, the festival introduces an exciting new collaboration with the Swindon Festival of Literature. That’s Brews & Beats – Tasting Notes: The Art & Science of Pairing Beer and Music. Hosted by acclaimed author and Sunday Times beer columnist Pete Brown. The session will explore the sensory relationship between sound and taste through guided beer tastings paired with music.

Meanwhile …

The main festival sessions run from Friday evening through Saturday, showcasing the full Centurion range. Saturday evening will once again feature live music. That’s headlined by the ever- popular ukulele rock band What The Pluck, alongside local acts The Saga Louts and Splat The Rat.

The festival concludes on Sunday with a brand-new, family-friendly event: 100 Hits Family Music Bingo. That offers a fun and inclusive finale filled with music, games, and prizes.

The fundraising

As in previous years, the festival will raise funds for important local and charitable causes, including:

• Swindon Town Football Club Community Foundation
• Sepsis research FEAT
• And of course, he ongoing upkeep of Christ Church and its community centre.

Tickets for all sessions went on sale from 1st March and we expected them to sell fast. Each ticket includes festival entry, a commemorative glass, and selected refreshments depending on the session. A variety of hot food options will be available throughout the event.

Festival organisers note that while approximately 100 beers and ciders will be available at the start, popular selections may sell out over the course of the weekend. All part of a sustainability- focused approach to minimise waste.

Chris Smith, Site Operations Manager at Christ Church Swindon and event organiser, said:

This year’s Centurion Edition is our biggest and boldest festival yet. We’ve got 100 beers and ciders on offer — our widest range ever. We’ve pushed the boat out, and we can’t wait for people to discover new favourites across the weekend.

‘It’s not just about the drinks though — it’s about creating something unique for the town. From headline comedy and live music to our exciting new partnership with the Swindon Festival of Literature for the Brews & Beats beer and music experience, this year’s programme has something for everyone. It’s shaping up to be our most vibrant festival yet.’

The event at a glance

Dates: Thursday 7th – Sunday 10th May 2026

Location: Christ Church Swindon & Community Centre, Cricklade Street, Swindon, SN1 3HB

Highlights:

• The Range of 100 beers & ciders on offer
• Comedy night
• Beer and music pairing experience
• Live music
• Family bingo finale

Tickets: From £5 to £15 depending on event

For further information, tickets, and updates, visit the festival website at:

Home

You can also follow the beer festival on social media at:

https://linktr.ee/oldtownbeerfestival.com

Or subscribe to the Beer Festival “Brewsletter” at: http://eepurl.com/iqptr6