Wanstead Beer Festival returns this month with more than 50 beers and ciders, a specially brewed braggot, new commemorative glass and support for local causes. Paul Donovan reports
A special festival beer, more beer and cider choice, plus a classic new glass, are among the highlights of the fourth Wanstead Beer Festival (WBF) at Christ Church on 10 October.
Bigger and better than ever. There will be more than 50 beers and ciders this time, drawn from across the country. Non-beer drinkers won’t be left out, with gin, rum, wine, prosecco and soft drinks all available. So, hopefully, all tastes will be catered for. There is also some great food on offer: Greek and burgers.
This year, there will also be a special festival beer, brewed by Sambrook’s brewery. The beer, Wanstead Heron, is a braggot, with a 6.3% strength. Sambrook’s head brewer, John Hatch, explains: “Unlike mead, braggot is beer made with both malted barley and honey. Records of fermenting honey go back thousands of years and, before the days of processed and cultivated sugar, honey would have been the easiest way to boost the gravity of beer to create a stronger beverage without the complication of doing double mashes. Honey also adds a distinct flavour and aroma.”
The George & Dragon will be running a special promotion of the Wanstead Heron. Launch night will be 5 October, when this special beer will be half price (limited stocks).
Among other beers to look out for at the festival are the ever-popular Pride of Prague – another chance for West Ham fans to reminisce about when the club won the European Conference League in 2023. Also, returning popular beers include Cromwell bitter, Walrus of Love and Cowcatcher. There will be a lot more cider this year, with Walthamstow-based Real Al providing some new brands. These will be in addition to the likes of Farmer Jim’s Rhubarb Bob and Perry.
Funds raised will go to selected local causes. This year, these are the River Roding Trust, Grow Hope and the Wanstead War Memorial Restoration Fund.
The WBF has been well supplied by many breweries, including Brentwood, Mighty Oak, East London, Sambrook’s, Pretty Decent, Pillars and Signature breweries. Local businesses have once again heavily supported the event. Not to forget the commemorative glass, which comes as part of the entry fee. These beautifully designed glasses are proving popular, with WBF loyalists able to boast a cupboard of three glasses. A full set will require you to come on 10 October.
But success only comes if people turn up. Last year, more than 900 attended. It is hoped this year to go beyond that number. There may be some tickets on the door, but that depends on whether we sell out before the day. Cheers.
The Wanstead Beer Festival will take place in the halls of Christ Church on 10 October from 1pm to 11pm. To book tickets (£10), visit wnstd.com/beer
