Norwich Beer Festival 2023 may have to move from The Halls

The popular event, which hosted its 44th festival last year, brings together brewers and hundreds of people who enjoy a tipple or two every October.

But the festival's 45th knees-up could have different surroundings after it was revealed The Halls could have to close for urgent repairs within two years.

The Halls in Norwich have been cordoned off due to a window health and safety risk - Picture: George Thompson (Image: Newsquest)

Norwich City Council is now facing a bill of around £2m to carry out the work on the 700-year-old St Andrew's Hall and neighbouring Blackfriars' Hall - although the venue remains open.

Craig Harmer, event organiser for Norwich Beer Festival, said: "The city council have made public the results of a survey of The Halls, which has identified that significant work will be required to ensure their safety.

"It isn't clear at the moment when this work will start, or how long it will take, and we note that events are still going ahead at the venue, but there is a significant possibility that the beer festival will be affected.

Norwich Beer Festival attracts boozers and brewers from around the country each year - Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Norwich Beer Festival 2022: The best pints revealed

"We hope to be able to run the festival as normal, but of course the safety of our customers and volunteers is paramount.

"In case we are unable to run the event at The Halls, we are already looking at potential alternative venues.

Hundreds of people poured into the festival when it opened on October 24 last year - Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

"We're looking at other city centre venues but it's all still in the very early stages."

Issues with walls, the roof and stained glass windows all require careful attention at the venue.

However, the city council has stressed The Halls remain open, with a spokesman saying: "We'd like to reassure people that The Halls is not under any threat of permanent closure.

"While it is likely the building will need to close temporarily for work to be carried out – no date has yet been decided for this."

Saint Andrew’s Hall and neighbouring Blackfriars’ Hall will have to close within two years, unless urgent repairs are carried out - Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)