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The uk's only craft beer festival, in a prison... in a castle
A unique celebration of some of the very best of the region’s craft breweries, in an outstanding, atmospheric and historic location.
A Wing
HMP Lancaster Castle
Castle Hill
Lancaster
LA1 1YN
Session Times
Thurs May 15th – 6-10pm
Fri May 16th – 6-10pm
Sat May 17th – 1-5pm
Sat May 17th – 6-10pm
entrance ticket
Your entrance ticket grants you entry to one of the four separate sessions, alongside your own Behind Bars branded glassware. There will be live music from some of Lancaster’s best acts, and food available from the outstanding Ninja Wraps
- Over 20 craft breweries
- Live Music
- Food stalls
- Souvenir glassware
- 4 separate sessions
A boutique craft beer event
Behind Bars is a unique opportunity to drink some of the UK’s best craft ale in a setting like no other. Remaining in constant use, Lancaster Castle presents a stunning window into the UK’s past.
History
Founded in the 11th century on the site of a Roman fort overlooking a crossing of the River Lune, the castle came under royal control in 1164. In 1322 and 1389, the Scots invaded England, progressing as far as Lancaster and damaging the castle. Its position became even more important during the English Civil War.
The castle was first used as a prison in 1196, and it remained in use until 2011. Uniquely, the castle buildings are owned by the reigning British monarch as part of the Duchy of Lancaster.
Behind Bars Craft Beer Festival
- Date : 15-17 May 2025
- Ticket : £15-£20
The UK’s most unique craft beer event, in a prison, in a castle!
General FAQ
- Behind Bars is an over-18 event and will be operating a Challenge-25 policy. If no valid identification is forthcoming, entry and service will be denied
- Numbers will be limited for first-floor viewing from the A-Wing mezzanine
- Last orders will be called 20 minutes before the end of each session
- Lancaster Castle is a no-smoking venue, including within the grounds. Smokers will need to exit via the main gate.
- Beer may be taken into the castle courtyard during the evening sessions but not during the Saturday afternoon session.
Payment Questions
- Tickets are available online via Ticketebo. Tickets will be accepted on mobile devices or printed out
- Behind Bars is a cashless event. Contactless payments are accepted for tokens