International Beer Day 2023
1st August 2023
1st August 2023
International Beer Day, a global celebration of beer and camaraderie, brings beer enthusiasts together to raise their glasses and appreciate the rich history of this beloved beverage. This year, we celebrate International Beer Day on Friday 4th August.
International Beer Day, celebrated annually on the first Friday of August, was founded in 2007 by Jesse Avshalomov, a beer enthusiast from California. The day aims to unite people worldwide to enjoy and share the appreciation for beer’s diverse flavours and cultural significance. Beyond the joyous celebrations, International Beer Day also emphasises promoting responsible drinking and supporting local breweries.
Beer’s history can be traced back to ancient civilisations, making it one of the oldest alcoholic beverages known to humanity. The origins of beer can be found in ancient Mesopotamia, where it was brewed around 5,000 BCE. Initially, beer was made from barley and other grains, and the fermentation process was discovered inadvertently when grains were left in water, producing a fermented liquid.
As civilisations evolved, beer became an integral part of their culture, often associated with religious ceremonies and social gatherings. Egyptians brewed beer for both ritualistic and daily consumption, while the Greeks and Romans had their versions of this revered drink. The art of brewing eventually spread across Europe, with monasteries playing a significant role in preserving and advancing brewing techniques during the medieval period.
The UK has a long history of brewing beer, and the production of it has been deeply ingrained in our country’s culture for centuries. In the early 19th Century, the UK witnessed a proliferation of breweries, leading to a diverse range of beer styles that catered to different regions and tastes. From ales and bitters to stouts and porters, the UK became a haven for beer enthusiasts.
Kent, known as the “Garden of England,” has also earned a reputation for its exceptional beer offerings. With its fertile soil and hop fields, Kent’s brewing tradition dates back hundreds of years. One of the most popular beer styles associated with Kent is the Kentish Bitter, characterised by its balanced bitterness and malt flavours.
Shepherd Neame Brewery, based in Faversham, is one of the oldest breweries in the UK, dating back to 1698. They produce a range of beers, including the iconic Spitfire Ale, named in honour of the iconic fighter plane that played a pivotal role in World War II.
Another notable brewery from Kent is the Whitstable Brewery, situated in the charming seaside town of Whitstable. Their renowned Oyster Stout, a dark beer infused with oysters, pays homage to the town’s oyster-rich history.
Other popular Kentish beers include the fruity and refreshing Gadds’ No.5, the rich and smooth Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter, and the award-winning Ramsgate Brewery’s Gadds’ Black Pearl Oyster Stout.
The Pantiles has a variety of independently owned pubs and bars where you can celebrate International Beer Day. Venues include:
The Pantiles Tap is a 16-tap real ale and craft beer paradise in the heart of The Pantiles with ever-changing cask ales and craft beers, both UK sourced and imported. If keg beer isn’t your thing, then try one of their bottled beverages, or select from the fantastic range of locally sourced artisan ciders.
“A truly wonderful and welcoming pub. A real craft beer place with wonderful knowledgeable staff and if you ask the hilarious landlord nicely a secret selection of Caribbean rum. It’s a true home from home for anybody local or visitor to the area. I could not recommend enough!” – Phil W
By day The Ragged Trousers offers excellent brasserie style food in a casual dining environment. By night it is a thriving pub offering the best of Kent and Sussex ale and an extensive list of lagers, craft beers, wines and spirits.
“One of the best Pubs in Tunbridge Wells. The Ragged Trousers is alive with activity. The place is not very large but it produces great food along with a good choice of beverages. The food and drinks are very reasonable and the staff provide exceptional service.” – Charlotte M
Situated on Sussex Mews behind The Pantiles Corn Exchange sits one of Tunbridge Wells’ most historic pubs. Tucked away through Coach and Horse Passage, The Sussex Arms is the area’s best-kept secret. The pub hosts regular pub quizzes, regular DJ nights, and little gigs that often make for a great first visit. They offer real ale from six hand-pulls, craft beers, and an ever-expanding wine and spirits list.
“The Sussex is a rustic pub with a great welcome by all staff. A great place to visit on a Sunday lunchtime. Truly took me back to what a pub is all about.” – Shelly H
The Duke of York offers an elegant welcome to the Royal Borough with craft beers, real ales and fresh food served in a stylishly refurbished setting. Grade II listed, it is a place that seamlessly blends old with new.
Head to The Pantiles this International Beer Day and support your local!
#PubsMatter #BeerDay #IntlBeerDay