Williams Bros Brewing is Raising the bar for Scottish Lager with the Launch of Ceilidh

Williams Bros Brewing is raising the bar for Scottish lager with the launch of Ceilidh — a crisp, cold-conditioned premium beer brewed for a new generation of drinkers. Bringing rhythm, heart and Scottish soul, and rooted in local ingredients and the country’s spirit of celebration, Ceilidh combines flavour, heritage and modern style in one striking new release.

Independently owned and proudly based in Alloa — the historic brewing capital of Scotland — Williams Bros Brewing has been brewing in the Heart of Scotland for over 30 years.  Best known for creating Joker IPA, one of Scotland’s most iconic modern beers and the country’s number-two selling IPA, the brewery continues to grow year on year while staying true to its values: quality, independence and innovation.

Fast forward to 2026 and the creation of Ceilidh - the latest expression of that philosophy. A premium Helles style lager, born and brewed in Scotland, it’s designed for today’s drinkers who value provenance, flavour and style in equal measure.  Named after Scotland’s iconic social dance, Ceilidh captures the spirit of connection and celebration in every glass. As Scotland prepares for a historic World Cup appearance, Williams Bros is raising a pint to the moments that bring people together.

The bold can design reflects that same spirit of movement and celebration. Its distinctive wheel motifs are inspired by the “reels” of traditional Scottish ceilidh dancing — a playful nod to the spinning energy of the dance floor and the joy of people coming together.

Crafted using locally grown Scottish extra pale malt — sourced a stone’s throw from the brewery — and Scotland’s naturally soft brewing water, Ceilidh is built on exceptional raw materials. After all, when Scotland has some of the finest brewing water in the world, there’s no need to look further afield. Traditional Hallertau hops are paired with a light touch of modern Tango hops, delivering subtle floral notes and a fresh, lifted finish.
The beer is slow-fermented with Swiss lager yeast, then cold-conditioned for six weeks — an honest tribute to classic, naturally aged European lagers, interpreted through a Scottish lens. The result is a crisp, clean lager with doughy malt character; a dry, refreshing finish, and a flavour that dances across the tongue.

Speaking about the launch, Scott Williams said:

“Ceilidh reflects how we brew today — thoughtfully, patiently, and without shortcuts. We’ve focused on a cold-conditioned lager that respects classic traditions while celebrating what Scotland does best: great ingredients, great water, and independent brewing done properly.”

Ceilidh is gluten free, vegan friendly, and available in 4 × 440ml cans. It is now available in selected Asda and Spar stores in Scotland and launches in selected Scottish Tesco stores this week.  Ceilidh is also available in popular city bars including The Caves and Teuchters in Edinburgh and The 78 and Inn Deep in Glasgow, with more listings to follow in the coming months.

As consumer interest in world and discovery beers continues to outpace the total beer category, Ceilidh represents a confident step forward — a premium Scottish lager for a new generation of drinkers, without leaving loyal fans behind.

Williams Bros Brewery continue to drive the Scottish beer market in challenging times.   They have increased their market share in Scottish Craft Beer from 10.5% to 12.1% and are delivering sales growth in a declining market.  

The brewery produces a number of award winning beers such as Joker IPA, Joker AF, Double Joker, Caesar Augustus and Birds & Bees; widely available across major retailers, pubs and bars throughout Scotland.

Find out more about Ceilidh by visiting williamsbrosbrew.com/ 

Data Source: IRI/Neilson Latest 52 wks to w/e 21/2/26

Image Credit: William Bros Brewing