Thursday 17 May 2012

Welsh Perry & Cider Society festival 2012

Its that time of year again. In a few weeks, the annual Welsh Perry & Cider Festival will be held at Blaengawney Cider Farm (Hafodyrynys, NP11 5AY) over the Jubilee Weekend (1st - 4th June.) What a great way to celebrate anything - trying as many ciders and perries as possible at the top of a Welsh mountain! They have over 70 to try so sensible drinkers can easily to spread their liver damage out over the three days, rather than try for all of them in one day. Its a great chance to meet the producers, most of whom will be there at some stage so you can cheer their ear off one way or another should you feel the need!

I went last year where it was held at the lovely Clytha Arms but could only stay for a few hours. I REALLY wanted to stay for longer and vowed to come back. 

Having visited Blaengawney before, I can vouch for the spectacular views and generous hospitality of the owners, its a proper taste of Wales and is well worth a visit. Bring your tent and banjo too. The atmosphere was very family and very friendly last year - there was camping and sunshine and music and cheese and pies and smiles...

Amazingly - its only 4 quid to get in and that includes a free half pint glass full to the brim with a cider or perry of your choice too. I think camping for the weekend costs a little more but that includes entry into the festival too.

Here are some photos from last year (apologies if you've seen them before.) See you at the bar for some proper 'iechyd da.'


















Friday 11 May 2012

Welsh Cider & Cheese Festival - this weekend!

Just a flying post about the Welsh Cider and Cheese Festival thats taking place this weekend at the Gower Heritage Centre in South Wales. If there was ever a classic combination worth celebrating all weekend long in the sunshine (yes - SUN AT LAST) its award winning cider with award winning cheese: both traditional and rural matches made in heaven. I'm very excited to be going, my excuse being the Welsh Perry & Cider Guide we're working on.
Come along and say hi.