What is the Real Ale and Jazz Festival?

It is warm summer evenings, great jazz and a huge selection of real ale and wine.

But you have to be a hard core jazz or real ale fan to go - right?

Wrong. Our jazz selection will suit anyone who likes to swing - it is guaranteed to get you up on the dance floor by the end of the evening yet doesn’t intrude if you just want to sit chatting with friends, tapping your feet under the table of course. And whilst we have an array of fine ales from some well known and not so well known breweries there is also a wine beer with a selection of fine wine, or bottled lager and soft drinks for those who really aren’t fussed about the alcohol. But with such a fantastic range and prices starting from just £1.30 for a half pint we think you’ll want to try a tipple. Add some traditional BBQ food and we have all the ingredients for a great evening out with something for everyone.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets online, by phone or from selected outlets around Reading. Further details are available on the tickets page.

Is there food available?

Yes we provide a BBQ serving a range of burgers, sausages, chilli con carne and vegetarian options. There is also our ever popular hog roast.

What time does it start?

Doors are open at 7pm on Thursday and Friday, with music starting at 7.15pm.  On Saturday doors open at 5pm with music starting at 5.15pm.

What time does the evening finish?

The bar closes just before 11pm.  Music finishes at 11.15pm.  Customers are asked to finish their drinks and vacate the site by 11.30pm.

Is the site ”under cover”?

The main tent holds over 2000 people but you can sit outside if you prefer

Can I buy tickets on the gate?

Yes there usually tickets on the gate but it’s often cheaper to take advantage of our advance purchase discounts and buy before festival week.  Tickets are available online until 5pm each day of the festival.

How far away is the site from Reading Station?

Just over a quarter of a mile.

Is there a car park nearby?

In George Street on the opposite side of the road from the site.

Do I need to bring a chair?

Hundreds of benches provided.

Can I buy soft drinks?

Yes, plenty to choose from!

Can I buy a bottle of champagne?

Yes, plenty to choose from!

Do I need to bring my own glass?

No they are provided.

Are there any medical people on site?

Our security staff  and several stewards are qualified first aiders. Senior stewards are able to call medical assistance in case of any serious emergency.

Can I bring my own drink?

Sorry not allowed.

Can I bring my baby?

Yes but please beware this is an event oriented towards adult and there is no specific provision for children

Can I bring my dog?

Yes we allow one dog per customer to be brought onto site but these must be kept on a lead/under control and are not allowed in the main tent.  Any customer who allows their dog to foul the site of disturb other customers will be asked to take their dog off site.

Can I bring a picnic?

Sorry no food is to be brought on site. A range of food choices are provided at the festival.