In the heart of London’s bustling Covent Garden, a touch of royal magic mingled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed beer on December 18, 2025, as King Charles III officially opened the brand-new Guinness Open Gate Brewery. The £73 million landmark, a stunning blend of historic charm and modern innovation, welcomed its most distinguished guest yet—the monarch himself—for a day filled with festive cheer, pint-pulling prowess, and heartfelt support for the hospitality industry. Braving the persistent London drizzle, the King toured the expansive site, sampled exclusive brews, and even stepped behind the bar to pour what staff hailed as a “perfect” pint of the iconic black stuff, complete with a creamy head and a seasonal twist.

The Guinness Open Gate Brewery London marks a significant milestone for the legendary Irish brand, becoming its fourth global location after Dublin, Baltimore, and Chicago. Nestled on the historic site of the old Combe & Co. brewery—an 18th-century powerhouse in Covent Garden’s thriving brewing district—the new venue revives a legacy that dates back centuries. Guinness has deep ties to London; exports began in 1796, and by 1901, Extra Stout was bottled right on this spot. Today, one in seven pints poured in the capital is a Guinness, underscoring the city’s enduring love affair with the stout. This £73 million investment transforms the area into a vibrant hub featuring a working microbrewery, immersive visitor experiences, multiple restaurants, shops, event spaces, and bars—all designed to celebrate 266 years of brewing heritage while pushing creative boundaries.

King Charles arrived to a warm Irish welcome—”Céad Míle Fáilte,” meaning a hundred thousand welcomes—greeted by Diageo Chairman Sir John Manzoni. The visit kicked off with a tour of the microbrewery, led by Master Brewer Hollie Stephenson, a trailblazer in the industry known for her innovative seasonal creations. The King delved into the brewing process, from raw ingredients to finished beers, marveling at the precision behind Guinness’s signature roast flavor. He sampled exclusive London brews, including the Old Brewer’s Yard Porter—a nod to the site’s historic porters—a festive Winter Warmer, and an unexpected Apricot Sour, which prompted a playful comment from His Majesty that it “didn’t taste like a beer at all.” These limited-edition crafts are brewed on-site, showcasing the experimental spirit of the Open Gate concept, where tradition meets bold new flavors.

The highlight of the day unfolded in the stylish 232 Bar, named after the exact temperature (232°C) at which barley is roasted to achieve Guinness’s distinctive dark hue and rich taste. Here, under the expert guidance of 23-year-old Guinness experience ambassador Leo Ravina, the King tried his hand at pouring a pint. Following the sacred ritual—tilting the glass at 45 degrees, filling to three-quarters, allowing the surge to settle for precisely 119.5 seconds, then topping up—he executed it flawlessly. Ravina declared it “a perfect pint of Guinness,” earning applause from onlookers, while the King modestly replied, “If you say so.” Not stopping there, His Majesty watched in delight as a high-tech machine printed “Merry Christmas” and a sprig of holly onto the creamy head using edible dyes. With a sip, he sported a classic Guinness moustache, quipping about whether the bar staff ever got foam stuck in their beards. “It is great stuff,” he remarked, clearly enjoying the moment.

Beyond the fun, the visit highlighted meaningful initiatives. The brewery serves as the southern UK hub for Diageo’s award-winning Learning for Life program, which provides hospitality training and career opportunities. The King met recent graduates who have launched successful careers in the sector, as well as participants from his own King’s Foundation Introduction to Hospitality course. This new partnership with The King’s Foundation will expand training support in Scotland, emphasizing skills development in an industry vital to communities. In a festive gathering at Old Brewer’s Yard, the monarch joined local businesses, community groups like Pineapple Dance Studios and Dragon Hall Trust, and the Covent Garden Chorus for carols. Executive Chef Pip Lacey introduced seasonal delights, including oysters, handmade pies by renowned pie-maker Calum Franklin, and Guinness-infused cake, all sourced from local suppliers.

Despite the rain, the King ventured outside to greet surprised passersby, shaking hands, chatting, and wishing everyone a “Merry Christmas.” Crowds whipped out phones to capture the unexpected royal appearance, adding to the day’s joyful atmosphere. Before departing through the iconic Guinness gates, His Majesty unveiled a commemorative plaque, cementing the official opening. He also received gifts, including a folio of historic Guinness advertising and artwork inspired by the brewery.

The engagement resonated deeply, especially coming shortly after positive updates on the King’s health. It showcased his commitment to supporting British and Irish industries, community programs, and the hospitality sector—a “heartbeat” of the economy, as noted by Diageo executives. The brewery, while not producing the classic Guinness stout (which remains exclusive to Dublin’s St. James’s Gate), will brew four permanent beers and rotating experimentals, drawing half a million visitors annually with tours, tastings, and events.

Inside, the space blends industrial heritage with contemporary design: exposed brickwork, gleaming copper tanks in the microbrewery, cozy bars, and dining areas offering elevated pub fare. Restaurants like Gilroy’s Loft and The Porter’s Table promise innovative menus pairing food with Guinness variants, while shops stock exclusive merch and collaborations. Immersive tours guide visitors through brewing secrets, ending with pint-pouring lessons and tastings.

This royal visit wasn’t just about a pint—it celebrated innovation, community, and tradition. As the holidays approach, the Guinness Open Gate Brewery London stands ready to welcome visitors for unforgettable experiences, proving that good things come to those who pour. With the King’s seal of approval (and that perfect pint), it’s poised to become a must-visit destination, bringing people together over the timeless joy of Guinness.