The Perth Beer Festival Review!

I’m not normally a big beer drinker but when my friends suggested we have a wee day out at the Perth Beer Festival I wasn't going to pass it up. Particularly as the weekend forecast promised cracking weather and there is nothing more fun than a casual drink in the sun.

From the moment you stepped onto the North Inch where the festival was being held, you could feel the incredible atmosphere radiating off of the tents up ahead. There were crowds of people outside the beer tent, laughing and drinking their brew of choice. The smell from the BBQ was wafting on the cool breeze ahead and it made you completely forget the snow that had been falling the week before. Nothing says Summer more than a BBQ, beer and good company.

Now, don’t get me wrong, my initial thoughts had been that it might just be a bunch of lairy types huddled together clutching beers but the reality was very different.  It was an occasion full of family and community spirit. Kids were running around playing ball, sliding on the giant inflatable and racing bikes around a wee assault course. Dogs were lounging with their owners in the sun, while Rugby matches played on the pitches close to the tent.

When I wasn’t inside getting a drink, I stayed close to the tent to avoid flying balls (that was my excuse!). Drinks were bought using tokens before entering the tent and I sensibly decided to buy only two at a time. The bar was insanely busy at all times, with an endless stream of beer lovers hanging around and chatting.  I loved the laid back and friendly atmosphere and although there were lots of people waiting to be served, everyone was patient and relaxed.

Not being a beer connoisseur did pose a problem for me as I had no idea what to buy or what I would like. I took the advice of my best friend who thought it would be hilarious to suggest a drink she knew would be too sweet for my tastes. The fruit cider by Cairn O’ Mohr, called Cairno Punch, is made from locally sourced apples, with strawberries and elderflowers right there in the mix. Like I said, too sweet for me but said friend was more than happy to take it off my hands and she loved it!

All was good though, as the festival was also providing spirits and I retreated to my old faithful drink of choice; vodka. Thank you Beer Festival for still enabling me to have a drink or four. My friends loved the Sunburst and the Ossian and the taps flowed all day with merriement and great local beers.

The festival itself was an all out brilliant experience. It was warm and welcoming and for a beer lover the choice and range of beers available was outstanding. 

The night entertainment from Big Verne and the Shootahs was amazing; they played loads of feel good tunes and the dancefloor was packed with people letting loose and having a good time.

The marvellous mood during the day continued on well into the night, making for a memorable evening. For me, this was the perfect start to summer and next year's festival is already on my radar when I plan to buy a bunch of beers and expand my palate properly!

Thanks to my friend, Jack Carmichael for all the pictures from our day. Check out his Instagram for more brilliant pictures of Perthshire!