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A history of the brew
SAB World of Beer, Johannesburg
The SAB World of Beer in Newtown.
© South African Breweries Limited
Did you know?
The World of Beer was judged South Africa's top tourist attraction in 2011.
The SAB World of Beer offers a 90-minute tour that starts with an entertaining, highly informative history of beer making from the earliest known evidence of beer-brewing in Egypt and Mesopotamia, through to the honky-tonk beer halls of the gold rush era of Johannesburg.
Visit a mock African village Ukhamba village where you will learn the secrets of African beer making and taste some traditional sorghum beer. Experience the atmosphere of a typical township shebeen, walk through the on-site greenhouse and learn about the different plants used to make beer. From there, trace the actual beer-brewing process, step-by-step on video, before finishing your tour in the Tap Room where you can enjoy 2 frosties on the house.
To celebrate its centenary in 1995, SAB officially opened the SAB World of Beer in the Newtown Cultural Precinct, one of Johannesburg's most prominent cultural and entertainment hubs. South African Breweries Limited (SAB) has been brewing beer since 1895 and is one of South Africa's oldest companies.
SAB is the South African subsidiary and historical birthplace of SABMiller, one of the world's largest brewers by volume, with over 200 brands and brewing interests, along with distribution agreements in over 60 countries across 6 continents.
The company operates 7 breweries and 42 depots in South Africa with an annual brewing capacity of 3.1 billion litres. Its portfolio of beer brands includes brands rich in heritage such as the iconic Dutch beer brand Grolsch and South African beer favourites like Castle Lager, Hansa Pilsener and Carling Black Label.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
How to get here
The SAB World of Beer is in the centre of the Newtown Cultural Precinct in downtown Johannesburg, conveniently located on one of the city's main taxi and bus routes.
Around the area
Some of Johannesburg's best live music venues are located in the Newtown Cultural Precinct, as is the famous Market Theatre and Gramadoelas Restaurant.
What will it cost
Approx. R65 per person.
Length of stay
The full tour lasts 90 minutes.
What to eat
Light pub-style lunches are available at the World of Beer's Tap Room pub. The Newtown area also has plenty of restaurants to choose from, from fine dining to fast food.
Best buys
Branded merchandise, beer gear or sports accessories are available from the World of Beer's Tankards and Togs gift shop.