One of Manchester’s largest beer festivals returns for 2015 this week. With more than 500 beers, ciders and perries available and thousands of visitors expected over the four-day event, here’s what you need to know.
The venue
The festival will take place again at Manchester’s Velodrome, home of Team GB’s Olympic cyclists. It’ll take over the concourse and inside the track this year with bars on both levels. The track will be in use during the event, so watch out for members of Team GB whizzing around you.
The beer
Beers from the UK, Belgium, Germany and Denmark will be among those on offer at the main bars, while ten northern breweries will also have their own bars set up for visitors to sample their wares and meet the faces behind the brews. There will also be collaborations a-plenty with the likes of Manchester’s Marble Beers teaming up with Cumbrian outfit Hawkshead and Edinburgh-based Elixir’s Brewing Company working together with Atom Beers from Hull.
The cider
The festival isn’t just for beer lovers; cider and perry fans are catered for with two bars. Although there will be a focus on the traditional cider heartlands of Somerset and Herefordshire, some local options will be available including Moss Cider.
The food
Food, glorious, food! Traders selling British and international dishes and snacks including pies, chilli and sushi will be spread across the venue. The Velodrome is also located next to the Eastlands Asda superstore.
Manchester Beer and Cider Festival takes place January 21 – 24 at the National Cycling Centre, Sportcity. Nearest Metrolink stop: Velopark.
See Time Out’s guide to Manchester’s best craft beer bars.