The Rutland Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branch is holding its annual beer festival this weekend, with festivities kicking off on Friday.

Set to go ahead from Friday 21 to Sunday 23 June, Rutland CAMRA's 11th annual beer festival will take place at Rutland County Museum and is set to welcome a host of local brewers, businesses, live bands and artists and more.

CAMRA is an independent organisation run by volunteers who promote and champion real ale, cider, and traditional British pubs and clubs. 

It is considered one of the most successful consumer organisations across Europe. Founded by four real ale enthusiasts back in 1971, today they represent beer drinkers and pub-goers across the UK. 

Last year welcomed live music and more. Image credit: Nub News.

Whilst real ales are now readily available, with Rutland being home to two national award-winning breweries, the branch's recent focus has been to support the 55 pubs, hotels and clubs within the county that help drive the local tourist industry, provide pleasure to the county's residents, and bring much needed employment opportunities to the towns and villages they sit within. 

Since the 2023 beer festival, where the team signed up an enthusiastic cohort of new members, the club is thriving. With over 230 Rutland members, social opportunities and local offers and discounts, the volunteer-led group is excited to bring some of this comradely to Rutland County Museum this week.

There will be live music, food and, of course, beer at the upcoming event. Image credit: Nub News.

Chair of Rutland CAMRA, Rich Harris, said: "We do hope you and your family can pop in to support our festival! It is very much a family event with a programme of light background music on Friday and Saturday, and a showcase for local dance groups on Sunday. As well as beer and cider, wine, gin, and soft drinks will also be available. The usual 'beer festival food' will also be available as provided by the Plough Inn from Greetham."

Opening times for the event are: 

Friday 21 June, 11am - 8pm 

Saturday 22 June, 11am - 8pm 

Sunday 23 June, 12pm - 6pm 

There is a £2 entrance fee for non-CAMRA members, and the £10 entry package includes this fee together with a refundable glass hire, and tokens exchangeable for drinks. 

Rich added: "By attending you will be supporting CAMRA and the local economy and, most importantly, giving yourself a good time! Our chosen festival charity this year is Loros. Come and sit on the straw bales and enjoy the Hay Carts and tractors, and the lovely environment provided by the museum courtyard. There is a bus stop right outside!! You will be sure of a warm welcome."

Further details about the event and volunteer beer group can be found on the CAMRA website.