Get ready for one of the most spirited celebrations in Burton upon Trent’s calendar: National Bass Day! Every year on April 11th the nation honours the extraordinary brewing heritage of our town and the legacy of William Bass, the pioneering founder of Bass Brewery whose vision helped shape Burton into a global beer capital. Furthermore, January 2027 will mark the anniversary of William Bass opening his first brewery here in Burton upon Trent, a proud milestone for our community and an occasion worth raising a glass to.
The Story of Bass — Brewing Heritage Roots
It all began in 1777, when entrepreneur William Bass established what became the legendary Bass Brewery on Burton’s High Street. From humble beginnings transporting beer across England to founding his own brewery, William’s passion for brewing paved the way for something iconic.
Over the centuries, Bass grew to become one of the most influential beer makers in the world. By 1877, a hundred years after its founding, Bass was the largest brewery on the planet, producing more than one million barrels annually and exporting its celebrated pale ale across the globe. Its red triangle logo, a symbol now synonymous with brewing excellence, was also the first registered trademark in the United Kingdom.
Why Bass Day Matters
Bass Day isn’t just about beer — it’s about celebrating Burton’s identity, ingenuity and global impact. Burton upon Trent’s success as a brewing hub was built on exceptional natural resources, entrepreneurial spirit and community pride. Today, the story of Bass stands as a testament to that rich heritage and continues to attract visitors keen to explore England’s brewing heartland.
Bass House — Brewing Past Meets Future
At the heart of this heritage is Bass House, a historic building that played a central role in the early days of Bass Brewery. Soon, Bass House will be transformed into a vibrant heritage experience, celebrating Burton’s beer story with interactive exhibits, a working pilot brewery, social history displays and the National Brewery Heritage Archive under one roof. Plans for this exciting visitor destination have been given the green light as part of the Old Brewery Quarter regeneration — a major milestone for culture and tourism in the town.
Visitors to Bass House and the surrounding Old Brewery Quarter will be able to immerse themselves in Burton’s brewing legacy while enjoying contemporary hospitality — including ales brewed right here in town.
Raise a Glass to Burton’s Brewing Story
Whether you’re a beer lover, history enthusiast or curious traveller, Bass Day offers a remarkable way to connect with Burton upon Trent’s heritage. Join us in raising a glass to William Bass’s legacy, to generations of brewers who followed, and to our town’s proud place in brewing history.
Plan your visit this January and be part of a celebration that honours tradition, community and the enduring spirit of Burton upon Trent!