Best Craft Beers and Ciders to Try at Ilkley Food and Drink Festival
While the Ilkley Food and Drink Festival is renowned for its street food and artisan fare, the beverage line-up deserves equal attention. From tangy farmhouse ciders to hop-forward pale ales, here are ten must-sample brews and ciders, hand-picked by our tasting panel. For more on all things Ilkley, head to our homepage.
1. Ilkley Brewery “Moorhouse’s Blonde”
- Style: Golden ale, 4.1% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Light biscuity malt, subtle floral hops, clean finish
- Why Try: A session-friendly classic that showcases Yorkshire brewing heritage
2. Crow Peak Brewery “Ilkley Hop”
- Style: Single-hop pale ale, 5.0% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Zesty citrus, resinous pine, medium bitterness
- Why Try: Made with local hop varieties for true regional flavour
3. North Brewing Co. “Happy Place”
- Style: New England IPA, 6.2% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Juicy mango and peach aromas, soft mouthfeel
- Why Try: Perfect for IPA lovers seeking a fruit-driven profile
4. Wold Top Brewery “Summer Lightning”
- Style: Summer ale, 4.0% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Sweet honey malt and gentle elderflower hint
- Why Try: Light and refreshing—ideal on a sunny festival afternoon
5. Yorkshire Cider Co. “Scrumpy”
- Style: Traditional dry cider, 6.5% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Sharp apple tannins, earthy finish
- Why Try: A no-nonsense farmhouse cider for purists
6. Eden Mill “Love Gin & Lime” Cider
- Style: Gin-infused cider, 4.8% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Juniper spice meets crisp apple; citrus lift
- Why Try: A playful fusion—fans of gin and cider alike will love it
7. Westons “Old Rosie”
- Style: Cloudy farmhouse cider, 7.3% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Robust apple aroma, warm spice undertones
- Why Try: One of Britain’s best-known ciders, with character to spare
8. Faithful Brewing “Driftwood”
- Style: Session IPA, 4.5% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Pine and grapefruit, low bitterness
- Why Try: Balanced, easy-drinking and perfect alongside festival eats
9. BlackJack Brew Co. “Stout Story”
- Style: Dry stout, 4.3% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, smooth roast finish
- Why Try: A surprising dark pour for those who favour depth over lightness
10. Farmer’s Orchard “Elderflower Cider”
- Style: Floral cider, 4.5% ABV
- Tasting Notes: Delicate elderflower, crisp apple base
- Why Try: A seasonal twist on a classic, great for first-time cider tasters
How to Enjoy Your Beverages
- Grab a Festival Mug: Pick up your reusable tasting mug on arrival—no single-use plastic here!
- Pace Yourself: With ABVs ranging 4–7%, alternate beer and cider, and hydrate at the water stations.
- Ask the Experts: Brewers are on-site to guide you through tasting notes and pairings.
- Pair with Food: Check out our Top 10 Street Food Vendors or revisit our beer picks—perfect with hog roast or vegan sliders.
Planning Your Visit
- Dates & Times: Saturday 19 – Sunday 20 July 2025, 10:00–18:00 (confirm via opening hours).
- Location: Victoria Avenue & Wells Road—full directions on our location page.
- Travel:
- Train: Ilkley station is a 10-minute walk (see train station).
- Bus: Routes 962/963 stop nearby—details on bus routes).
- Taxi: Local services listed under Ilkley taxis).
- Family & Accessibility: Paths are firm and level; accessible toilets at the festival office. A family zone sits beside Westcroft Gardens—learn more under things to do in Ilkley.
Ready for VIP Tastings?
For small-group craft-beer or cider flights—complete with tasting notes and snacks—book online in advance. For private group experiences or corporate bookings, just contact us and we’ll tailor your session.