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VISIT TO THORNBRIDGE HALL GARDEN PARTY

A couple of intrepid Hinckley & Bosworth CAMRA representatives attended the Garden Party / Open Day at Thornbridge Hall, Ashford in the Water, Derbyshire on Sunday 1^st July.

For those that don’t know, Thornbridge Hall is the home of the Thornbridge Hall Country House Brewery. This brewery has been in operation since 2004 and makes some truly wonderful beers. At least 7 different real ales are now brewed for cask and bottling.

The brewery was open for viewing on the day of the Garden Party and the beers could be sampled at conveniently placed bars at either end of the gardens. It was very memorable to be able to wander around the extensive landscaped grounds enjoying the views whilst supping a pint of Thornbridge Jaipur (a superb 5.9% IPA which won the Silver “Strong Bitter” award at the 2006 Great British Beer Festival).

The Kelham Island brewery, whose owner helped set up the brewery at Thornbridge, was represented by a horse drawn brewery dray and bottles of one of their special brews were being sold in aid of charity.

As well as the beers there were a host of interesting stalls including a quality Craft Fair within the Hall and live music in the gardens.

The Hall itself used to have its own railway station and was once owned by Charles Boot, the Sheffield entrepreneur (remember Boot Homes?), who took items for Thornbridge from Clumber Park which he happened to be demolishing at the time. The Great Hall within the main building contains an original William Morris window said to be the finest in any privately owned house.

The Hall and grounds are only open a couple of times a year, so if you get the chance to go do so. You won’t be disappointed and all proceeds go to charities.

All in all a wonderful day out.

Bill & Celia Smith

STOP PRESS

A new Thornbridge beer called “Cecilia” has just been brewed. A deliciously blonde ale apparently. Hmmm……………………..

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