Guinness returns to London brewing roots with £73m Covent Garden destination
Brewing has officially returned to Covent Garden for the first time in centuries as Diageo opens the doors to its £73 million Guinness Open Gate Brewery.
The sprawling 54,000-square-foot venue, located at the historic Old Brewer’s Yard, marks a significant expansion of the brand’s physical footprint and a major vote of confidence in London’s hospitality sector.
Set to open to the public on Thursday, December 11, the venue is positioned not merely as a taproom, but as a “brand home” designed to rival the famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.
The project transforms a site that first brewed beer over 300 years ago into a modern multi-faceted destination featuring a microbrewery, two restaurants, a courtyard bar, and a 360-degree digital history experience.
Diageo, the parent company of the Irish stout, views the London opening as a critical step in capturing a larger slice of the 20 million visitors who flock to the capital annually. While Dublin remains the spiritual home of the “Black Stuff,” London is a commercial powerhouse for the brand; according to Diageo, one in seven pints poured in the city today is a Guinness.
“This week marks a proud moment for Diageo and Guinness in Britain,” said Barry O’Sullivan, managing director of Diageo Great Britain. “London has played a critical role in Guinness’ success throughout its history… Open Gate Brewery London builds on that tradition, creating a vibrant space where both visitors and the local community can connect.”
The venue aims to challenge perceptions of what a Guinness venue can be. While the classic stout — still brewed in Dublin — will be the headliner, the on-site microbrewery, led by master brewer Hollie Stephenson, will produce limited-edition craft beers, seasonal specials, and non-stout varieties exclusive to the London location.
The culinary offering is equally ambitious, with two restaurants helmed by acclaimed British chef Pip Lacey. The menus focus on locally sourced produce and inventive food pairings, moving the brand into the premium gastronomy space.
The investment is a boost for the local economy, creating up to 250 jobs. Diageo has also designated the site as the southern UK hub for its “Learning for Life” programme, a charity initiative providing free hospitality training to help people enter the workforce.
The London location becomes the fourth Open Gate Brewery globally, joining existing sites in Dublin, Baltimore, and Chicago.
“Guinness is a brand rooted in history but always looking forward,” said Gráinne Wafer, global director for beer at Diageo. “Our fourth Open Gate Brewery will continue our commitment of providing new platforms to engage existing fans and welcome new audiences.”
The Guinness Open Gate Brewery opens to the public this Thursday.
