Weymouth Museum to Host Brewing Demonstrations and Talks Celebrating Local Beer Heritage

Beer lovers and local history enthusiasts alike will have the chance to step back into Weymouth’s rich brewing past this January, as Weymouth Museum hosts a series of brewing demonstrations and talks at its Pop-Up Museum in St Thomas Street.

Taking place on Thursday 8 January and Saturday 24 January, the events will explore both the craft of brewing and the deep-rooted history of beer production in Weymouth. Visitors can choose from two sessions on each day.

At 11am, attendees will be guided through the essential ingredients of beer and learn how brewing methods have evolved over time, offering an accessible introduction to the art and science behind one of Britain’s best-loved drinks. Then at 1.30pm, a more in-depth talk will delve into the history of brewing, with a particular focus on Weymouth and its once-thriving brewing industry.

Both sessions will be led by Julian Herrington, a former brewer with Devenish and later Shepherd Neame in Faversham. Now actively involved with the Brewing History Society, Julian brings decades of practical experience and historical insight, along with a clear passion for preserving Britain’s brewing heritage.

The talks coincide with a special exhibition at the museum marking 40 years since the Devenish Brewery in Hope Square brewed its final beer in 1985. That moment brought an end to centuries of large-scale brewing in Weymouth. Brewing equipment and memorabilia donated to Weymouth Museum at the time are now back on public display, offering a rare glimpse into the town’s industrial and social past.

The events will be held at the Weymouth Pop-Up Museum, 39b St Thomas Street, Weymouth, DT4 8EH, and promise an engaging way to explore an important chapter of local history.

With expert talks, live demonstrations and a nostalgic exhibition, the sessions offer a compelling reason to raise a glass to Weymouth’s brewing legacy this winter.