A Short History

The idea of an Ashford Beer Festival was conceived by Chris Akers, a rotund and jovial beer aficionado, back in 2001. Chris worked on the idea for 18 months and with the help of a dedicated group of supporters, the first event took place in September 2003. Since then the festival has grown from strength to strength, adding more music and rugby each year.
His Rotundness & Sponsor

Beer Festival Partners

Drinking Quotes

"Always do sober what you said you'd do drunk. That will teach you to keep your mouth shut." Ernest Hemingway

Support the 2008 Ashford Beer Festival

If you are interested in supporting the Ashford Beer Festival and would like to sponsor any part of the event, please contact Chris Akers.

Ashford Beer Festival 2008

The Ashford Beer Festival is an annual 3 day event. The festival is based around 3 key components of fun: Real Ale, Music and Rugby. The Festival is held at the Ashford Rugby Club in Ashford, Kent. This year, the Festival will be held over the weekend of 5th to 7th September. The Festival is open to club members, local residents and beer, rugby and music lovers from Kent and beyond.

Real Ales

We have a total of 40 Real Ales all served direct from the cask. These include beers from around the regions of the UK that are rarely seen in Kent. Previous favourites include Timothy Taylor's Landlord, from Yorkshire. The range includes light summer bitters of 3.5% abv, to dark heavy ales in excess of 8% abv. Sadly, many modern players - typically those under 45 - don't appreciate the benefits of cask conditioned ales and ciders. For them mass produced lagers and cider are available from the club bar. All tastes are catered for.

Real Cider

As well as Real Ale we also stock real ciders. The most popular come from the Biddenden Vineyard, located on the edge of the Weald of Kent.

Music

The festival has developed an eclectic mix of live music. This has included Jazz, Folk and Rock. Appearances have included local bands and ensembles. Popular acts have included Electric River and teachers from Norton Knatchbull school. The Festival is always on the lookout for new talent. If you're interested in appearing contact Chris Akers using the e-mail link in the sidebar.

Rugby

The rugby is designed to cater for all tastes and levels. From 1st team mens, to ladies, to veterans to non-contact tag. Participation is invited from players and non-players alike.

Junior Rugby - Sign-up for the new season

Sunday 7th September is sign-up day for the thriving Ashford Junior section. Potential players aged from 6 to 17, and their families, are welcome to come along from 10am. If you like what you see, stay for the whole day.

Rugby Club Links

Ashford RFC - main site
Ashford Junior Rugby
Rugby boots and kit

Ashford Beer Festival

Real Ales, Real Music, Real Rugby - 5th to 7th September 2008