At the mere mention of the sun, many of us slather on the sun cream and make a beeline for our nearest bar or pub.
Extended pub opening hours over the Coronation weekend were predicted to give a £104 million boost to the sector. As summer starts in earnest, the Square Mile’s 1,000 licensed venues are limbering up for what they – and we at the City Corporation – hope will be a successful season after the trials and tribulations of Covid.
And, to support the Square Mile’s recovery, we’re delighted to bring the annual Beerfest back to Guildhall Yard on Thursday 6 July.
Pub culture is an integral part of London life. Around 37% of Brits visit one at least once a fortnight, and a trip to an authentic British pub should be on any tourist’s bucket list.
Once the refuge of the weary traveller, today’s pub is a place where people from all walks of life can gather to celebrate successes, lament losses, catch up with old friends and make new ones. Particularly as most now welcome families, serve food, and offer a range of soft beverages for non-drinkers.
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I’m sure I’m not the only one who felt the absence of the City’s pubs and restaurants when they were required to close during the pandemic.
The City of London Corporation stepped up to help firms with its COVID Recovery Fund. And our fast-track al fresco seating policy was delivered with no fee, resulting in over 140 venues contributing to the City’s vibrancy with outdoor seating.
Today, workers have returned to offices, tourists are visiting, and the City has its buzz back. Yet, although the Square Mile is busier, it is clear some establishments are struggling to get back to full health.
That is why we have launched our flagship “Destination City” programme to transform the Square Mile into a world-leading leisure destination for residents, workers, and visitors.
The annual Beer Fest is part of this. A hugely popular event – produced in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Brewers – which celebrates London’s heritage, culture… and, of course, a wide range of British beers.
Eleven leading brewers will be offering 35 beers to sample. There’ll be delicious food catering to a range of dietary requirements, and entertainment from New Orleans brass band, UnSwung Heroes.
City Beerfest has raised over £150,000 for good causes in 10 years, and funds raised this year will go to The Lord Mayor’s Appeal, which supports three incredible charities: National Numeracy, MQ Mental Health, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
And you’ll get a 10% discount on your tickets by booking online now.
Three hundred years ago, the writer Samuel Johnson said man hadn’t yet created anything which could produce as much happiness as a good tavern.
His words ring true today. But the many good taverns in the Square Mile need our patronage to keep serving us so well. So please, do, pay your local a visit, and come down to Guildhall Yard on 6 July for some cold beer and warm conversation.
To book tickets please visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/
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