Now a regular beer festival in the south west, Totnes Beer & Cider Fest has become a favourite day out for Cornwall CAMRA members. Run by South Devon Branch of CAMRA in the Civic Hall in the ancient town of Totnes on the River Dart, complete with classic Norman motte-and-bailey castle.

Coming by train, the walk is fairly short but steep from the station to the bustling town centre on market day. A sign on the pavement pointed the way up to the hall.

The hall was spacious and airy with a red theme. One long bar with a treble-height stillage. Plenty of tables and chairs plus a video display on the stage. Outside tables as well for those who liked to be baked in the sunshine.

We had a good go at the 52 cask beers and 12 ciders and perries. I had seven beers finishing with the fearsome 8% Prize Pig barley wine, plus a very nice medium dry perry from Sticklepath. There was food available and various activities going on including tutored tastings and meet the brewer. Perhaps next time I should stay for all three days…

But for the one-day trip it was time to cross the Tamar back to Kernow.

Thanks to South Devon Branch and all the volunteers.

Cheers,

Steve Barber