The Top 5 Must-Try Beers at the 2026 North Leeds Charity Beer & Music Festival
- Mar 17
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 7
The Insider’s Hit List: From Arctic Ales to Candy-Floss Hops
Every beer festival has that one “secret” beer that suddenly has everyone queuing by mid-session. With 36 Yorkshire cask ales on the taps at the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival, the choice is huge! But a handful of rare gems are already generating serious buzz.
Whether it’s a centuries-old historic recipe or a hop-driven experiment from a small local brewery, these five standout brews are the ones you’ll want to track down the moment you get your glass. Just remember: once these casks are tapped out, they’re gone for good!
Arctic Ale – Allsopp’s Brewery (11%)
Arctic Ale isn’t just another strong ale — it’s a piece of brewing history! Originally brewed in Burton-upon-Trent for British Arctic expeditions in the 19th century, it was designed to keep explorers nourished in extreme conditions. Modern recreations showcase rich malt, dark fruit, and warming spice. Beer enthusiasts often describe it as robust and complex — more like a fine aged ale than a standard beer.
Why it’s unmissable:
Historic recipe with deep complexity
Flavours of dark fruit, spice, and roasted malt
Rarely available on cask outside Yorkshire
One to try: Arctic Ale is a historic masterpiece that rewards slow sipping and curious palates.
VIP – Craven Brew Co (6.5%)
VIP from Craven Brew Co is a Victorian Imperial Porter — rich, full-bodied, and deeply satisfying. Part of the brewery’s Heritage Range and first brewed over 20 years ago, it has become a favourite among porter lovers for its depth and classic style.
Why it’s unmissable:
Bold, dark porter with layers of roasted malt
Notes of chocolate, coffee, and warming complexity
A benchmark for traditional British porters on cask
One to try: VIP’s bold, comforting porter profile makes it a standout cask you won’t want to miss.
Blacksmith – Wishbone Brewery (5.0%)
Blacksmith Porter from Wishbone Brewery is brewed with German beechwood smoked malt, giving it a subtle smoky aroma over roasted malt and chocolate. Fans online and at previous festivals praise its balance and distinctive character.
Why it’s unmissable:
A rare smoked porter on cask
Smooth roasted malt with layered smoke and chocolate notes
Perfect for festival-goers seeking something different
One to try: Blacksmith’s smoky, roasty profile makes it a standout and memorable festival pint.
Motueka Twist – Chin Chin Brewery (approx. 3.9%)
From Chin Chin Brewery in South Elmsall, Motueka Twist is a sessionable pale ale featuring New Zealand Motueka hops. Online reviews highlight bright lime, tropical citrus, and refreshing drinkability, ideal for keeping your festival pace lively.
Why it’s unmissable:
Low ABV, hop-driven pale ale
Zesty lime and tropical hop character
Rarely seen outside its local scene
One to try: A bright, juicy pale ale that keeps your festival momentum going.
Oro – Zapato Brewery (3.4%)
Founded as a nomadic brewery in 2021 by ex–North Bar stalwart Matt Gorecki, Zapato Brewery now operates from Holme Mills in Marsden. Still rarely seen in Leeds, this small production brewery has built a quiet reputation for hop-forward, flavour-led beers among those in the know.
Oro is a gluten-free pale ale that keeps things simple and precise — crisp, clean, and dry, with a refreshing finish that makes it incredibly easy to drink.
Why it’s unmissable:
Style: Gluten-free pale ale with a crisp, dry finish
Drinkability: Light, refreshing and perfect for session pacing
Rarity: A sought-after brewery that rarely appears in Leeds
One to try: Oro is a clean, refreshing pint that proves simple done well is hard to beat — and one you’ll wish you’d found sooner.
Why You Need to Be There
The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival is more than just a beer lineup! Organised by the Roundhay Rotary Club, every pint supports local community projects and continues a tradition of great beer for a great cause. Beyond the brews, enjoy live music, food, and a family-friendly session on Saturday (12–5:30pm) with face painting and games.
From historic recipes and hop experiments to smoked porters and rare small-batch casks, this year’s festival offers something for every palate. Once these casks are gone, they’re gone! Arrive early, grab your glass, and track down the beers everyone will be talking about tomorrow.
Event Details
When: Friday 10th April (5–11pm) & Saturday 11th April 2026 (12–11pm)
Where: North Leeds Cricket Club, Old Park Rd, Leeds, LS8 1JX
Price: £12 Advance (includes commemorative glass & programme) / £15 on the door
Your next favourite beer is waiting — don’t let it slip away!
The Heart of the Festival: Community and Charity
At the heart of the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival is community spirit. This event isn’t just about enjoying fantastic beers; it’s about coming together to support local charities and initiatives. Each pint you enjoy helps fund vital projects that make a difference in our community.
Craft Beer Culture in Leeds
Leeds has a vibrant craft beer scene, and the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival showcases the best of it! With local breweries bringing their finest creations, you’ll discover unique flavours and styles that reflect the creativity of our region. So, whether you’re a seasoned ale enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of craft beer, there’s something here for everyone.
Live Music: A Festival of Sounds
What’s better than sipping a delicious pint? Enjoying it with live music! The festival features an array of local bands and artists, providing the perfect soundtrack to your beer-tasting adventure. From upbeat tunes to soulful melodies, the live performances enhance the festive atmosphere and keep spirits high.
Food to Pair with Your Pints
Don’t forget about the food! The festival offers a selection of local food vendors serving up tasty treats that pair perfectly with your chosen brews. From hearty meals to light bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving. So, grab a plate and enjoy the delicious flavours alongside your favourite pint!
Make Memories at the Festival
The North Leeds Charity Beer Festival is more than just an event; it’s an experience! Gather your friends and family, make new connections, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re dancing to live music, sampling unique beers, or enjoying the festive atmosphere, you’ll leave with stories to tell and a smile on your face.
Join Us for a Great Cause
So, mark your calendars and join us at the North Leeds Charity Beer Festival! It’s a fantastic opportunity to enjoy great beer, music, and food while supporting local charities. Let’s raise a glass to good times and good causes!
Your next favourite beer is waiting — don’t let it slip away!
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