Despite what the weather would have us believe, spring is most definitely on the way and with it comes one of the highlights of the local beer drinking scene. The Portsmouth Beer Festival is back at the Guildhall on Friday 11th May and Saturday 12th May and building on previous success, this promises to be the best one yet.

As anyone who has been to the Portsmouth Beer Festival in recent years will agree, the organisers have been doing a great job of balancing tradition alongside more contemporary styles. This year will be no different with over 120 cask ales available and a craft beer bar with offerings from some the best UK breweries delivered via keg. The biggest problem will be choosing what to drink next.

As someone who was born and bred in Somerset don’t be surprised to see me making more than one visit to the festival’s Cider bar. I’ve got a real soft spot for the apples which isn’t surprising as I was practically weaned on Cider. You can take the boy out of the farm but…..

Embracing one of the biggest trends in UK drinking, there’s also a Gin Bar, where an expert will be available to guide you through a diverse selection of botanicals and mixers. For those that prefer their libations somewhat more bubbly the much loved Prosecco bar will also be back.

I don’t think I’m alone in thinking that good beer often tastes better when paired with great food and the Portsmouth Beer Festival has this covered, with pizza, BBQ and a hog roast amongst the street food on offer. There’s live music across all sessions with a heady mix of tribute, covers and original acts to get your hips swinging and feet stomping.

If you’ve not been to a Portsmouth Beer Festival before I’d encourage you to give it a try. It may be cliched to suggest it offers something for everyone but it really does cater for a diverse range of drinkers.

Tickets are £12 plus booking fee, per person, per session and include a souvenir glass, programme and beer token. Sessions are; Friday 11th May, 6 pm to 11 pm; Saturday 12th May, 12 noon to 5 pm; Saturday 12th May, 6 pm to 11 pm.

Tickets are available in person at Meat and Barrel, Belle Isle (Southsea), Portsmouth Guildhall Box Officer or online from the Portsmouth Guildhall website.

Website: pompeybeerfestival.co.uk
Facebook: facebook.com/portsmouthbeerfestival
Twitter: twitter.com/PompeyBeerFest