Guinness OGB Gate 1 (1)

The 54,000 sq ft site is located in London’s Covent Garden

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

The 54,000 sq ft experiential brand home for Guinness in Covent Garden would offer “new way to experience the magic of Guinness across brewing, gastronomy, retail, and community”, claimed brand owner Diageo.

It will feature an on-site microbrewery, two restaurants, a casual dining courtyard, public and community events spaces, a multifunctional private hire event space and a private dining room. Two retail spaces will offer exclusive merchandise including “an exclusive pipeline of collaborations”.

Visitors to the Open Gate Brewery would be able to sample a rotating range of “craft brews and seasonal specials” produced on site, including non-stout varieties and low-alcohol options, Guinness said.

OBY Shelton Fifth Floor 01

Gilroy’s Loft features a horseshoe bar and skyline views across London

The food offer will be helmed by former Hicce and Murano chef Pip Lacey.

A rooftop restaurant called Gilroy’s Loft will offer “the best of Britain’s coast” including line-caught fish and native, freshly shucked oysters alongside “skyline views across London”.

Meanwhile, the sharing-style menu at The Porter’s Table will showcase “the very best of British produce” including locally aged meat, fish caught in British waters and vegetables grown in London’s neighbouring counties.

Finally, the courtyard space of Old Brewers Yard will serve handmade pies by chef Calum Franklin, with no bookings required.

OBY CourtYard 01

Pints and pies will be on offer in Old Brewers Yard

First announced in early 2022 and originally due to open in autumn 2023, the Open Gate Brewery project has faced a series of delays.

Last year, The Grocer revealed its lead contractor had fallen into administration, derailing Diageo’s plan to open the brewery by last October.

“The Guinness Open Gate Brewery London has been years in the making, and we’re thrilled that the moment has almost arrived,” said Guinness GB marketing director Deb Caldow. “We can’t wait to welcome Londoners and visitors from around the UK and the world.

“We consider this Guinness’ home in the UK, hosted in the country’s dynamic capital city. It will be a place to celebrate heritage, embrace innovation, and invite visitors to discover new flavours, experiences, and stories. Good things really are coming.”

A first tranche of tickets for the Open Gate Brewery would go on sale in November, Diageo said.