The Surrey Oaks - Events

August Bank Holiday Beer Festival (2004)

The turnout was large, despite the somewhat indifferent weather. Can't recall seeing any unhappy faces!

A great surprise was provided by Ken in the form of professional cask coolers and racking stands. We think you'll agree that the display of beers looks really stunning!

Click an image below and believe you're still there!

Of the 36 beers advertised, there was one no show Wye Valley, Dorothy Goodbody Golden, (4.5%), but this was replaced (on Friday at least), by Ossett, Silver Fox, (4.1%). Once again a few beers stood out from the rest, these being Dark Star, Over the Moon (a 3.8% mild), Acorn, Summer Pale (4.1%), Grand Union, One Hop Amarillo (4.5%), Oakham, Helter Skelter (5.0%) and Sarah Hughes, Dark Ruby Mild (a 6.0% mild?!).

The official List of Beers (excluding the change above) can be seen by clicking the image below:

The beers just about lasted until the end of the Festival, the last cask running out at exactly 19:00 on Monday evening! Beers will always run out as the Festival progresses, but it is the aim to have nothing left at the end (or it has to be thrown away). This is about the best timing you will ever see!

The weather was not really a problem, although it was rather wet underfoot on Friday. Saturday was a much drier day, Sunday was dry in the morning, but wet through the late afternoon. Monday was dry and sunny, but it could have been a bit warmer for August!

The entertainment was, as ever, excellent.
The Cafe Racers (a Rhythm and Blues band) played their set of Friday and was enjoyed by all present.
On Saturday night it was the turn of 'The Mariachis', who played a fantastic set.
On Sunday Lunchtime, 'The Frog Island Jazz Band' played their set and finished just before a shower!

For Monday lunchtime there was a superb the Hog Roast (prepared by Sarah) and of course, at all times, there was the fantastic BEER!

A couple of pictures of the garden on Monday and the Hog Roast are shown below (click the images)

As we've said before, a Beer Festival takes a lot of organising and is very hard work. Without Ken this would not happen. We must also thank Cousin Tony for his help in the beer tent, particularly during the (very) busy sessions.

So, from the most successful Surrey Oaks Beer Festival yet, there remains only one thing to say.....

Thanks Ken!

Last updated: 30^th Aug 2004