The Blackfriars Tavern will end 2026 and begin 2027 in the same place: at a beer festival. The Last & First Beer Festival runs for three days, from Thursday 31 December 2026 to Saturday 2 January 2027.
The idea is straightforward. It is the last festival of the year and the first of the next, held as one continuous run rather than two separate events. There are 50 ciders and 30 real ales from around the country across the three days, with real cider and perry alongside the ales. With that much choice, there is room to try something unfamiliar and still find a favourite.
Thursday 31 December, 11am to 8pm
A quiet day to open. Drinks, the pianola and beer festival food, 1pm to 8pm, with the last drinks being poured at 7:30pm and the pub closing at 8pm*. If you want the festival without the pressure of New Year’s Eve, this is the day for it.
*Note that we are closed from 8pm for our annual invite only New Year’s Eve Party.
Friday 1 January, 11am to 10pm (Yes Trains are Running!)
The bar opens at 11am, with music from 4pm to 6pm and beer festival food 1pm to 8pm. A gentle way to start the year with the festival still in full swing. See here for Train Times to Great Yarmouth. and here for Trains from Great Yarmouth
Saturday 2 January, 11am to 10pm
The last day runs from 11am until 10pm, with music from 7pm to 9pm and beer festival food 1pm to 8pm. It is the last chance to work through the range.
Plan your visit
The Blackfriars Tavern is at 94 Blackfriars Road, Great Yarmouth NR30 3BZ. The festival page has the details, and it is worth checking back nearer the time for updates: https://www.blackfriarstavern.co.uk/real-ale-real-cider-perry-festival-blackfriars-tavern/
You do not have to choose between a New Year’s Eve out and a proper beer festival. Come for the festival, stay for the music, and come back the next day for more. Whether you are a regular, a first-timer, or in Great Yarmouth for the New Year, there will be a seat and good company.
Come along across the three days, ask at the bar, and take your time over something worth drinking.
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