With autumn in full swing and the evenings drawing in, there’s something undeniably appealing about cosy corners, warming drinks and a little indulgence. That’s exactly what’s on the menu at Edgbaston Village as Birmingham Cocktail Weekend – Winter Edition returns from 23–26 October, and three of our most-loved venues are proudly on the trail.

This year, the four-day festival brings together nearly 40 of the city’s best bars and restaurants, each serving up a £6 signature cocktail, £5 mocktail and, new for winter, an optional £9 cocktail and snack pairing.

Whether you’re catching up with friends, planning a date night, or simply fancy trying something new, this is the perfect excuse to explore the city’s cocktail scene and Edgbaston Village makes an ideal stop.

Chapter – Chesapeake Punch

Chapter brings warmth and a touch of history to the trail this year with Chesapeake Punch, inspired by George Washington’s favourite celebratory drink. This smooth, spiced serve blends Appleton Signature Rum with chilled English Breakfast tea, crème de peche, lemon juice and cinnamon syrup for a punch that’s both refreshing and gently comforting.

For those going alcohol-free, Washington’s Saviour uses Caleno Dark & Spicy NA Rum with peach syrup in place of crème de peche. Both are well balanced, with soft citrus notes and a cosy, spiced finish.

Smoke + Ash - Cardamom Rose

Smoke + Ash brings bold flavours and inventive pairings to this year’s cocktail trail. Their Cardamom Rose is a fragrant mix of whisky, almond, cardamom and rose — smooth, warming and quietly indulgent.

The drink is paired with a mini peshwari calzone, echoing the cocktail’s nutty sweetness and spice. It’s unexpected, clever, and perfectly pitched for the season.

The High Field – Illicit Affairs

Known for its relaxed charm and seasonal menu, The High Field has crafted a cocktail as intriguing as its name. Illicit Affairs combines Wildjac Spiced Honey Rum with blood orange, finished with a soft lift of lemon and ginger tea. The result is warming, spiced and just a little mischievous.

The food pairing is equally well judged — a smoked salmon tartlet served with a charred blood orange slice. Elegant, flavourful, and perfect for an autumn evening.

How to Take Part

To join in, simply purchase a BCW wristband at birminghamcocktailweekend.co.uk. Then head out and enjoy exclusive access to all participating venues and their special festival serves.

With tree-lined streets, independent venues and a relaxed atmosphere, Edgbaston Village is the perfect place to sip, savour and explore this autumn. Start your trail here, end your evening here or make a night of it across all three spots.

We’ll drink to that.