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 park my car?

The Hills Meadows Car park, which is directly opposite the site, will remain open until 10 minutes after the event closes and is free.

The other option for those wanting to leave their cars for longer is to use Garrad Street, which will cost £4, which will also allow you to leave your car there overnight if required.

Instructions for this option are as follows:

• The driver enters Garrard St car park AFTER 6pm on the night they want to use the special deal.
• They push the button at entry for an entry ticket and the barrier will raise
• The driver visits the wine bar inside the festival and shows the entry ticket.
• They are given a ‘validation ticket’ which will reduce the parking charge down to £4 for the night.
• The driver returns to the NCP Garrard St car park and goes to the payment machine.
• They enter their original entry ticket at the payment machine, followed by the ‘validation ticket’ and the charge will reduce down to £4.
• They pay £4 and are issued with an exit ticket. The driver exits the car park using their exit ticket.

 

Is there food available?

Yes there are a range of concession stands available. This year we have a hog roast, Pieminister Pies and a general burger/hot food van.

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.

How far away is the site from Reading Station?

Just over a quarter of a mile.

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 children?

Yes, but please beware this is an event oriented towards adults and there is no specific provision for children. However, we do not charge entry for children under 11 years of age.

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.