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Great Central Railway hosts unique 125-year anniversary beer festival

The free event takes place from September 19 to 22.

A bustling platform at Great Central Railway Leicestershire

The Great Central Railway is promising the biggest Leicestershire beer festival of the year, with a line up of brews with an anniversary twist; 125 beers to mark 125 years!


The north to south Victorian high-speed line first opened in 1899, 125 years ago and the modern-day heritage railway is marking the anniversary by rounding up 125 beers for visitors to sample - one for each year!


The event takes place from September 19 to 22, is free to enter and will feature bars at Loughborough Central, Quorn and Woodhouse, and Rothley stations, as well as refreshments on the move on the railway’s award-winning trains.


Three young men in burgundy polo shirts smile in front of beer kegs

Malcolm Holmes, General Manager of the Great Central Railway said, “This is always a wonderful social occasion, and we have plenty to draw visitors this time. From the wide range of beers, to live music and trains running through the day and into the evening.


"It’s family friendly too. We’ve really pulled out the stops for the anniversary year and we look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate with us.”


Taking into account modern day dietary restrictions, there’ll be a varied selection of Vegan and Gluten Free beers available and for those who aren’t so keen on a pint or two, for the first time a gin bar will be opened at Quorn and Woodhouse station. Cider and soft drinks will also be available.


What’s more, a guest diesel locomotive, Class 31 number, 31 108 which was built at the Brush works in Loughborough is scheduled to appear on trains for the last time before returning to its home railway.

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