Real buzz at Quedgeley inn around champion cask ale festival

Celebrations are on the way for the Bumble Bee Vintage Inn at Quedgeley, Gloucester, when it holds its showcase cask ale festival (Thursday, September 2nd to Sunday September 5th).

The pub located at Waterwells Business Park always has a tasty selection of best quality cask ales, but in addition to its usual three regular guest beers this one-off festival will feature at least 15 award winning choices from the best brewers around the country.

Ales will include Thornbridge Jaipur, brewed in Derbyshire, Old Slug Porter from the RCH Brewery in Somerset, Harviestoun Schiehallion from Scotland; Rudgate Ruby Mild from Yorkshire; Hook Norton Haymaker from Oxfordshire; Adnams Regatta from Suffolk; Moondance Triple F from Hampshire; Otley O1 from South Wales and St Austell Proper Job from Cornwall.

Landlord Paul Hodgkinson said: “We’re really looking forward to this. These great cask ales are rich and varied in their flavours and will go well with the delicious hog roast we have planned for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It’s not every day you get to offer such a range from around the country, so we’ll be making the most of the opportunity - the ales will be kept in tip top condition with the latest hi-tech, cooled racking system in a marquee we’re putting up specially for the event. It will be a real treat for those who appreciate good beer that’s been kept well, and something different for anyone who likes a tipple or two along with their meal.”

Thursday, September 2nd, will be a VIP night for invited guests only and local dignitaries – with Gloucester Rugby players putting in an appearance. On Friday, September 3rd from 7.30pm, there’ll be music from the Paragon Jazz Band, and on Saturday, September 4th from 7.30pm, Woody & the Stuntcocks will be playing their inimitable selection of covers.

Paul said: “Beer is an ideal summer drink – very refreshing - and cask ale is as varied and complex in flavour and body as wine. With such a wide selection, even our lady guests will be tempted to sample what’s on offer as a complement to their meals.

Call 01452 727041 or visit www.vintageinn.co.uk/thebumblebeegloucester to find out more – and download the festival booklet.