What could be better than a weekend of great walks, beautiful countryside, fantastic beer and excellent entertainment?  The Black Sheep Brewery has opened entry to its 8th annual Boots and Beer Festival in anticipation of what is expected to be the “biggest and best” yet.

The festival, which runs between 11-13th September, was first launched in 2001 to entice walkers back into the Dales following the Foot & Mouth outbreak. Last year’s Festival attracted more than 500 walkers and raised over £1300 for Swaledale Mountain Rescue.

The walks, devised by Mark Reid, author of ‘The Inn Way’, are suitable for ramblers of every level, and this year the two-day festival features a jam packed programme of evening entertainment including jazz, quizzes, ceildh and race night.

Ashleigh Robson from Black Sheep said: “Due to the massive demand for tickets, we have extended the festival to accommodate 750 walkers this year.  Last year the response was fantastic and this year, as well as our ‘regulars’, we hope to welcome new walkers from every corner of the UK to take part in our biggest and best Boots and Beer Festival yet.”

Paul Theakston, Black Sheep Managing Director said: “The Festival is a celebration of the stunning scenery, delicious local delicacies and of course the outstanding ales we have in the Dales!”

For further information or to enter the Boots and Beer Walking Festival, please contact Ashleigh Robson at the Black Sheep Brewery on  01765 689227, or visit www.blacksheepbrewery.co.uk