Bury St Edmunds Ale Trail

Launched in 2018, the Our Bury St Edmunds Ale Trail was created to celebrate the town’s rich brewing history and its vibrant modern-day beer scene. Now in its seventh year, the trail highlights Bury St Edmunds as a must-visit ale destination – for both locals and visitors alike.

Bury St Edmunds has long-standing ties to brewing and today, the town centre boasts an impressive variety of real ale pubs, craft beer bars, and taprooms, many of which are set within beautifully preserved and historically significant buildings. The trail includes around 25 venues, ranging from cosy traditional pubs to stylish modern spots, with the line-up evolving slightly to reflect the ever-changing scene.

Highlights on the trail include:

• The Nutshell – officially the smallest pub in Britain.
• The Corn Exchange (Wetherspoons) – often described as the “poshest Wetherspoons” in the country, housed in a stunning Grade II listed building.
• A wide range of local and guest ales, often sourced from Greene King Brewery, located just a short walk away. Brewery tours are available for those wanting a behind-the-scenes look at one of the UK’s oldest brewers.

To take part, simply pick up an Ale Trail map at The Apex, Moyse’s Hall Museum, or St Edmundsbury Cathedral Visitor Information Point when you are in town. Or download the Ale Trail here.

This initiative is part of Our Bury St Edmunds BID’s ongoing work to promote the town centre, support local businesses and celebrate our unique heritage.