Lewes Castle Tops a Remarkable Year for Harvey’s
It has been quite a year for Lewes Castle Brown Ale, with our traditional brown ale receiving some of the highest honours across three major beer competitions.
At the World Beer Awards 2026, Lewes Castle was awarded Gold before going on to be named World’s Best English Style Brown Ale and ultimately World’s Best Dark Beer.
Further success followed at the International Beer Challenge, with another Gold Medal and the Trophy for Best Ale up to 5% ABV, while the British Bottlers’ Institute Competition added a third Gold Medal.
These results are particularly pleasing as both the World Beer Awards and International Beer Challenge see Gold Medal winners progress through further rounds of judging to compete for the top awards in their categories.
It has been a successful year across the wider Harvey’s range too. At the World Beer Awards, Old Ale was named World’s Best Mild Ale and Sussex Stronghold World’s Best Pale Barley Wine, while Sisters Table Beer was among a further five beers to receive Gold Medals and UK Winner awards. View the full list here.
At the International Beer Challenge, Prince of Denmark took the Trophy for Best Stout or Porter and Christmas Ale received Gold. Further Gold Medals from the British Bottlers’ Institute went to Christmas Ale and Pilsner.
Across all three competitions, Harvey’s also received 11 Silver and 17 Bronze Medals.
The awards are also a fitting way for Miles Jenner to round off his time as Head Brewer. After many years at the helm of the brewing team, Miles has moved into his new role as Production Director, handing the reins over to Peter Yarlett as Head Brewer.
Miles Jenner, Production Director and Joint Managing Director at Harvey’s, said:
“We’re particularly pleased to see Lewes Castle do so well this year. Brown ale is a wonderfully traditional style and to see it recognised at this level is very rewarding. The results across the wider range are also a great reflection of the care and hard work that goes into brewing our beers here in Lewes.”
Lewes Castle Brown Ale is a traditional brown ale with a sweet, malty palate, a hint of burnt sugars and a bittersweet finish. It is currently available in 500ml bottles online and at selected venues in Lewes and selected Harvey’s pubs.
We recommend contacting the venue before visiting to check availability and avoid disappointment.
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About Harvey's Brewery
Harvey's Brewery, based in Lewes, boasts a rich history spanning over two centuries. Renowned for its commitment to independence and quality, Harvey's continues to brew in the same Victorian brewhouse using traditional methods, ensuring each sip reflects the brewery's authentic spirit.
Harvey’s beers have received recognition in national and international competitions over many years, including the World Beer Awards, International Beer Challenge, British Bottlers’ Institute Awards and CAMRA awards. Recent successes include being named UK Brewer of the Year 2025 at the International Beer Challenge and a number of World’s Best titles at the 2026 World Beer Awards. View our Awards.
