Situated in a picturesque countryside location, with a fantastic array of cask ales, craft beers and traditional ciders, the first ‘Hidden’ Beer & Cider Festival promises to be quite an occasion. Just beyond the weir at the far end of Etherow Country Park in Compstall, lies the undulating farmland home to Blackthorn Music Festival, owned by Karl Hancock. Working with his daughter, Laura and wife Jan, Karl has successfully transformed a beautiful part of the local countryside into a destination for music lovers from across the nation.
This year they are bringing something new to the area, with the North Wests first camping Beer & Cider Festival. Teaming up with Craig, Graham and John from ‘The Local Wine Company’ there will be guest ales from local breweries such as, Green Mill in Broadbottom and Howard Town in Glossop. With between 15-20 casks available throughout the weekend there is sure to be something to suit most palates. However, if ale is not your cup of tea then maybe the selection of hand crafted traditional ciders on hand pull will take your fancy. The Local Wine Company have worked with Westons Cider for many years and are proud to distribute on behalf of the country’s oldest Family run cider producer. This year they have produced variations of their most popular ciders including some with rhubarb, elderflower and even cloudy lemonade!
There will be live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, and you can expect to see and hear some of the best local talent thanks to the increasing popularity of Blackthorn Music Festival! As well as some stunning bands there will also be brass bands, dancing and ukuleles during the day on Saturday and Sunday, making it a perfect day out with all the family. A stroll through Etherow Country Park, with a quick stop off at their recently refurbished visitor centre makes a perfect start to any weekend day. A beer festival for the whole family may seem a strange concept but with a wide selection of soft drinks, entertainment and fun from midday and free entry to under 16’s it seems they have really catered for everyone. There will even be a Prosecco & Wine bar serving by the glass (and bottle) for those that don’t fancy a pint.
Tickets:
£5 per day PLUS glass & FREE drink
£10 weekend PLUS glass & 2 FREE drinks
Friday: 3pm – 2am / Saturday: 12pm – 2am / Sunday: 12pm – 11pm