Europe’s largest student-run beer festival is returning to the University of Warwick this February, celebrating its 46th year with an outstanding number of sponsorships from local breweries.

Running from 19-21 February 2026, the Warwick University 46th Real Ale Festival will feature over 100 beers, including 70 cask ales, alongside ciders, wine and mead, and exclusive collaborative brews.

The event will take place across three evenings in the Students’ Union Copper Rooms, with live music from Warwick favourites Big Band, Band Society and up-and-coming band, Midnight Repost.

Real ale continues to grow in popularity among younger generations, with record level membership in the society hoping to make this year’s festival the largest to date. This comes at a time when many breweries and beer festivals have struggled to attract customers since COVID. 

A strong line-up of West Midlands breweries will be sponsoring the event, including flagship brewery Attic Brew Co., alongside Windmill Hill, Dhillon’s Brewery, New Invention, and more. Returning bar sponsors include Hook Norton, Church Farm, Birmingham Brew Co., and Titanic with fan favourite Lilley’s Cider also confirmed.

Tickets are priced at £4, with pints ranging from £3 to £4.50. Festivalgoers will have the opportunity to sample exclusive collaborative brews, including a spring special with Windmill Hill, a peach pale ale with Mashionistas, a raspberry and camomile ale with Dhillon’s Brewery, and Triumph’s 1962 Tropicale.  

Warwick Real Ale Society has previously gained recognition from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), receiving the Coventry and District CAMRA Special Award in 2024, marking the society’s 50th anniversary. Proceeds from this year’s festival are hoping to be donated to Myton Hospice, continuing the society’s long-standing charitable support in the region. 

Co-Presidents, James Freed and James Moran said they are looking forward to welcoming attendees, and expect to see over 2,000 visitors across the three nights.

James Freed said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of the festival is the diversity of people it attracts. Although it is hosted at the University of Warwick, it is open to everyone, with something for everyone. Whether you’re a student daring enough to try Turbo Purple, an experienced real ale drinker or simply there to soak up the live music, the festival will be one to remember.”

James Moran added: “It is always great to see so many people come together to support and enjoy the festival year after year! It is truly amazing to hear the countless unforgettable memories made as well as see both seasoned drinkers and a new generation of ale drinkers find new favourite beers from local breweries, helping to keep the industry thriving.”

The Warwick University 46th Real Ale Festival will run from 6pm to late every evening from 19-21 February. Entry tickets and drink tokens are available on the Warwick Students’ Union website or on the door.