Everything you need to know about National Beer Day 2026 and how to celebrate with Hungry Horse
Ah beer. A proper British classic that's always worthy of the cheers. Whether you're toasting to a reunion with the gang, washing down a big feast with the family or wetting your whistle on a baking hot day, there's nothing like a refreshing pint.
From the frosty head to the burst of bubbles and smooth taste, a beer is more than just a drink; it's a cornerstone of pub life, and at Hungry Horse, we're ready to raise a glass for National Beer Day.
What is National Beer Day and when is it celebrated in Britain?
When it comes to tipples worthy of a toast, we can't think of any more deserving than a beer, and beer lovers can unite on June 15th 2026, as it marks National Beer Day in Britain.
The national celebration is an excuse to get together with your nearest and dearest and say ‘Cheers to Beer’. Tradition calls for a toast at 7pm, but you're welcome to celebrate with us at whatever time suits you. Plus, this year's date is a Monday, and we can't think of a better way to start the week.
We'll be celebrating National Beer Day at our Hungry Horse pubs, so stop by and let us pour a glass of what you fancy.
How did National Beer Day start?
There are tons of national holidays that stretch back over the decades, but National Beer Day is practically a baby, turning only 11 this year.
National Beer Day was first coined by Jane Peyton, a beer sommelier, writer, and drinks educator, and kicked off on June 15, 2015.
The date was chosen because it’s the day the Magna Carta was sealed in 1215, where ale even gets a mention. Clause 35 reads: ‘Let there be throughout our kingdom a single measure for wine, ale, and corn’. Proof that, no matter the century, people have always known the value of a great beer.
What is beer and which pint should you pick?
Beer is traditionally made from just four ingredients, water, hops, malt, and yeast. The brewing process mixes roasted barley and hops with water, unlocking the rich flavours and sugars that turn into a perfect pint.
Beer has been brewing for thousands of years, with evidence that the ancient Egyptians mashed partially germinated barley, mixed it with water, and let it ferment. Essentially, the origins of a pint.
Not a fan of beer? Maybe you've not found the right one! There are plenty of beers to tickle your taste buds, each with its own distinct flavour.
You've got lager, which is crisp, clean, and refreshingly smooth. Perfect for a summer's day spent in a sundrenched beer garden.
A pale ale may be light in colour, but it's full in flavour, while an IPA is bold and bursting with hops. And for a richer flavour, opt for a stout, such as Guinness.
Weird and wonderful facts about beer
Beer is older than writingWith beer having roots in ancient times, it means it even predates writing. In fact, beer is thought to be older than any other alcoholic drink, including wine.
Britain is not the biggest lover of beer
A pint may seem like a British staple, but it's actually the Czech Republic that drinks the most beer per capita, with an average of 148–188 litres per person annually compared to just 67-70 litres per person annually for the UK.
Beer helped build the Egyptian Pyramids...kinda
Beer was a key part of Ancient Egyptian life, with archaeologists finding evidence that workers on the pyramids received daily rations of beer. Historians have claimed it was also common in Ancient Egypt for beer to be treated like currency. Certainly puts a new spin on the phrase 'beer money'.
The strongest beer can be found in Scotland
Of course the Scots are responsible! The beer is known as Snake Venom and has a percentage of 67.5%. Definitely not something we'd suggest you keep drinking all night...
Hops haven't always been in beer
They may seem like a key part of the brewing process, but hops weren't added to beer until around the 13th century. Before that, brewers used gruit, which is a traditional mixture of herbs.
Beer used to be healthier than water
Yep, you read that right! Back in the Middle Ages, water was often contaminated and could cause lots of health issues. Whereas beer was relatively cheap and easier to drink. Sadly, we can't use this excuse now...
How can you celebrate National Beer Day at Hungry Horse?
At Hungry Horse, there's plenty to raise a glass to, and on National Beer Day, we'll keep those pints flowing. Stop by with friends or enjoy a catch-up with the family.
Our pub food menu is packed with classic plates that pair perfectly with a beer. Whether you're peckish or positively starving, there's a dish for you.
What beers do we have on offer at Hungry Horse?
We’ve got plenty of tasty tipples on tap, as well as bottled beers to clink and drink. Soak up the flavours of a Desperados with a wedge of lime or go for a classic Heineken.
A BrewDog Punk IPA is light and golden, while a Peroni Nastro is an Italian pale lager with a crisp taste. We’ve also got our Greene King beer selection on offer, plus a packed drinks menu if you want some variety.
Not drinking? No problem! Our low and no-alcohol beers are just as flavourful, so everyone can raise a glass.
Find a Hungry Horse pub for National Beer Day
Want to celebrate National Beer Day with Hungry Horse? We've got plenty of pubs marking the day, so pop your postcode or location into our handy pub finder tool, and swing by for a celebratory pint!