Ale trail entertains record numbers – and a whisky festival is up next
The annual Leighton Buzzard Railway Ale Trail saw a record number of visitors over the weekend of 2nd and 3rd June. More than 500 attendees were able to taste 20 different beers and ciders from Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, including the Leighton Buzzard Brewery’s Narrow Gauge, a golden ale named in honour of our line.
Bars were stationed at each end of the line and hourly trains ferried customers between the two, including evening trains for the later session on the Saturday. Around 800 pints were consumed over the two days, with third, half, and full pints offered of all the ales.
Festival helper Rocky Lancer said: ‘Due to unforeseen circumstances, the event was planned at very short notice. However, based on the number of customers and their feedback, this didn’t detract from the success of the weekend – a testament to our committed volunteers. We have exciting plans for next year and will be announcing the dates for 2019 in the autumn.’
The next event at the railway is our first-ever whisky festival, on Father’s Day Sunday 17 June. Held at Stonehenge Works, access to the event is exclusively by train from Page’s Park where attendees will be able to choose from a selection of around 75 whiskies and other spirits. Drinks prices start at £1, with hourly masterclasses available for a ticket price that includes a bespoke engraved festival tumbler. In addition, local gin producer Willow Tree Distilling will be in attendance; with hot food and soft drinks available, too.
Full details are available at www.buzzrail.co.uk, including fee-free booking for train and masterclass tickets. The latter are limited in number and we recommend reserving your space early to avoid disappointment.