Are you looking for ways to bring the family together this September?
Embrace the festival feeling, relax and let the good times roll, at the Hops n Harvest Beer Festival at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park this September.
It promises to be a day packed with laughter and delight and will be a great way to bring in autumn. It’s also the perfect place for grown-ups to discover their new favourite drink!
Below, we share all you need to know about the weekend, to ensure you don’t miss out and will have the chance to create some lasting family moments.
When is the Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival 2023?
The festival takes place on September 9 and 10, 2023. Visitors can arrive any time after 10am.
Where is the beer festival taking place?
The festival will be held at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park in Maidstone.
What events and activities will be on at the festival?
There will be a variety of live and local music taking place across the two days. Those in attendance can take a step back in time to meet a cast of characters from Kent’s historical past and witness the traditional hop-making process in the last coal-fired Oast House in Britain.
Visitors can take a turn picking the hops by hand, fill the bushels and sample pleasant aromas as the Oast House is brought back to working life for one weekend only. They’ll have fun taking a sneak peek around the Hoppers Huts, where previous generations used to enjoy their summer holidays.
All the usual Kent Life attractions will also be available including animal encounters and outdoor play areas for children, farm rides, paint-a-pot studio and much more. It’s the perfect occasion to gather everyone together in one place to spend some quality time as a family, getting involved and having fun.
What food and drink will be on offer?
One of the highlights of the weekend (for those of age of course) will be visiting the Kentish Ales Marquee, where guests can sample up to 50 varieties of beers, ales and ciders. Call by the gin bar for a refreshing serve.
There’s also an array of food stalls available, including the fresh and tasty menu served in Dotty’s Tea Room and treats from the wood-fired pizza oven in the aptly named pizza garden.
Can dogs attend the Hop n Harvest Beer Festival?
Absolutely – they are more than welcome! It’s just asked that they’re on their best behaviour, are kept on short leads and cleaned up after. Unfortunately, the only places off-limits to your four-legged companions are the catering areas, the cuddling corner and the Kent Owl Academy.
Is there anything else to know before visiting?
There’s free parking on site and contactless payments are preferred. Smoking or vaping isn’t permitted inside any of the buildings, including The Beer Tent, but designated smoking spots and ashtrays are provided.
Will you need to book tickets and how much will it cost?
Pre-booking is recommended for both members and non-members to guarantee admission. Tickets for Saturday cost £15 for adults, and £12 for children (aged between two and 15). Families of four (two adults and two kids) cost £50.
Sunday tickets are £12 for adults and £12 for children (between two and 15 years old) and tickets for families of four (two adults and two children) cost £44.
Admission for members on both days is free, but booking is still necessary.
Online bookings can be made at tickets.tygit.com.
The Hop ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival will take place on September 9 and 10, 2023, from 10am at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park on Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, ME14 3AU.
