Diageo is set to launch Guinness Open Gate Brewery this Thursday (11 December) in Covent Garden. The experience cost $73 million to create and is in Old Brewer’s Yard. 

The multinational company has said the 54,000 ft venue features a microbrewery where master brewer Hollie Stephenson will create limited-edition craft beer and seasonal specials. It will also serve Guinness and Guinness 0.0, which will continue to be brewed in Dublin. 

As well as the brewery, the venue will offer a tour and a 360-degree digital experience telling the story of Guinness in London; two restaurants led by chef Pip Lacy; a ground-level courtyard bar and eatery; two retail stores; and a dedicated private-event hire venue. 

Diageo has said that this reflects its long-term investment in the British hospitality and tourism sector, with the venue creating 250 new jobs and serving as the southern UK hub for Diageo’s Learning for Life programme. 

Barry O’Sullivan, MD of Diageo Great Britain said: “This week marks a proud moment for Diageo and Guinness in Britain. London has played a critical role in Guinness’ success throughout its history, and two centuries after the black stuff arrived in the UK capital, one in seven pints poured in the city is now a Guinness.  

“This iconic stout has always been about bringing people together, and Open Gate Brewery London builds on that tradition, creating a vibrant space where both visitors and the local community can connect, celebrate and experience the very best of Guinness hospitality.”