Real Ale Runabouts 2026

Real Ale Runabouts 2026

 

Ipswich Buses is pleased to again partner with Ipswich & East Suffolk CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) to deliver a programme of Real Ale Runabouts throughout 2026.

We are proud to have been working with CAMRA delivering the Real Ale Runabouts since 1983!

 

 

What is a Real Ale Runabout?

 

Real Ale Runabouts are bus trips to rural pubs in Suffolk & Essex, with each runabout stopping at multiple public houses throughout the day.

CAMRA arranges the programme of pubs, with those joining the tour finding out where they will be visiting on the day!

CAMRA know pubs, and they know ale, so attendees are sure to enjoy scenic locations, a mixture of pubs, and a wide variety of real ale on offer.

Participants must be aged 18 or over.

 

When are the Real Ale Runabouts, and what areas will they be touring?

 

There are 11 runabouts confirmed in 2026:

 

• Saturday 14th March – Wickham Market, Easton & Framsden

 

• Saturday 4th April – Combs, Battisford & Offton

 

• Saturday 16th May – Redgrave, Larling & Garboldisham

 

• Saturday 13th June – Newmarket, Lidgate & Dalham

 

• Saturday 4th July – Southwold

 

• Saturday 25th July – Brightlingsea & Wivenhoe

 

• Saturday 15th August – Walberswick, Dunwich & Theberton

 

• Saturday 19th September – Beccles & Bungay

 

• Saturday 24th October – Harwich & Great Oakley

 

• Saturday 21st November – Lavenham & Long Melford

 

• Saturday 12th December – Christmas mystery tour

 

 

When does a Real Ale Runabout start?

 

All runabouts depart Tower Ramparts Bus Station (Cricketers Layby) at 11:15.

Tours usually return at approximately 19:30.

 

How much is a ticket?

 

Tickets cost £13.00, or £12.00 for CAMRA members (membership card must be presented).

 

How do I book a place?

 

All tickets must be pre-booked and will not be sold on board.

 

To find out more or book a place on a Real Ale Runabout, contact the Travel Shop at Tower Ramparts Bus Station:

 

• Email: info@ipswichbuses.co.uk
• Phone: 01473 344800
• Or call in to the Travel Shop in person

 

Participants must be aged 18 or over.

 

Attendees must drink responsibly.