Guinness Opens the Gate in London

20 Jan 2026 Innovation Our Brands Culture

The Drop offers an inside look at the stories behind our brands, people and business. From innovation and craft to culture-shaping experiences, The Drop opens the doors to the leaders and teams shaping the future of our business, helping you better understand who we are and what we do.

In the first episode we go behind the gates of Guinness, three hundred years after beer was first brewed at 1 Mercer Walk, brewing has returned to the heart of Covent Garden. The opening of Guinness Open Gate Brewery London marks more than a new destination - it is a confident commitment to London, to hospitality, and to the enduring power of brands that bring people together.

Spanning 54,000 square feet across the historic Old Brewer’s Yard, Guinness Open Gate Brewery London brings brewing, food, culture and community together under one roof. Two restaurants led by acclaimed chefs sit alongside bars, retail, small-batch brewing and flexible spaces for events and culture, all designed to feel open, welcoming and full of life.

It’s a really bold move on behalf of Diageo and Guinness, a £73 million investment right here in the heart of London, and it’s a huge vote of confidence in London hospitality.

Barry O’Sullivan

Managing Director of Diageo GB

The Brewery will create up to 250 jobs and establish a new cultural landmark for both locals and visitors alike, with London welcoming over 20 million people each year.

Guinness has a long historical connection with Covent Garden. It was the inspiration for Arthur Guinness, who decided to brew porter when the rest of the world was brewing ale.

Grainne Wafer

Global Category Director, Beer, Vodka, Liqueurs and Convenience

London at the Heart of Guinness

Open Gate Brewery builds on that legacy. Today, one in every seven pints poured in the capital is a Guinness and Guinness is the UK’s number one beer¹. In Great Britain alone, Guinness welcomed 1.5 million new consumers last year, with particularly strong growth among women and younger adults. Guinness 0.0 is also now the UK’s number one alcohol-free beer.

Yet there is still room to grow. Of the UK’s 25 million beer drinkers, only 5 million currently choose Guinness². Open Gate Brewery deepens the brand’s presence in the capital, giving loyal drinkers and curious newcomers alike a richer, more immersive ways to experience the brand through brewing, food, culture and storytelling. Discover more about our brands and how Guinness fits within the wider Diageo portfolio.

Why brand homes matter

Guinness Open Gate Brewery London joins a global network of Guinness brand homes that demonstrate the power of physical experience to build emotional connection. The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin – celebrated its 25 birthday in 2025 - has welcomed more than 25 million visitors, and remains one of the world’s leading tourist attractions.

Critically, these experiences do more than host visitors – they support local on-trade and strengthen local hospitality. Research shows that visitors to Guinness brand homes go on to drink more Guinness elsewhere, supporting pubs, bars and brand affinity well beyond the walls of the experience itself.

Built with community at its heart

Though global in ambition, the Brewery is deeply rooted in its local community. The site includes dedicated spaces for community groups, creatives and residents, and will play a key role in Diageo Learning for Life, supporting people into meaningful employment through training, mentoring and hands-on hospitality experience. This commitment reflects our broader Diageo ESG priorities and ongoing focus on inclusive growth in the communities we serve.

From British-sourced ingredients and seasonal menus to rotating small-batch beers brewed on site, the Brewery reflects the craft, creativity and diversity of British hospitality today. Step inside and you’ll notice the warm aroma of freshly roasted barley, the buzz of conversation and the energy of an open, welcoming space.

Opening the gate

Guinness Open Gate Brewery London is more than a visitor destination. It is a home for craft, culture and connection – and a powerful symbol of belief in London’s hospitality sector.

As brewing returns to Covent Garden after three centuries, Guinness opens the gate to its future in London, confident, inclusive and deeply rooted in the city it serves. Join us to experience the spirit of Guinness up close, explore our business and Diageo responsible drinking commitments, and learn more via DrinkIQ as you plan your visit.