The Epping and Ongar Railway is inviting fans of real ale, cider and steam trains to a three-day festival starting on Friday 24 July.

The event, which the Railway is organising in conjunction with CAMRA (the Campaign for Real Ale), also includes live entertainment and promises visitors a “fantastic family-friendly atmosphere”.

A range of real ales, craft beers and traditional ciders will be on sale, including both popular brews and less common local brews.

There will be up to 85 real ales and 20 ciders at both of the stations and from the On Train Bar. There will also be a special real ale, exclusive to the festival, which will support the St Clare’s Hospice ‘Lions on the Loose’ trail. The list of real ales and ciders expected to be available will be published closer to the event.

The Railway will run a vintage London bus service connecting all its stations with Epping London Underground station (Central Line, Zone 6). It will also run some buses to Shenfield station to connect with Elizabeth Line and Greater Anglia services.

Timetables for the buses and for the festival’s train services are available on the Railway’s website.

There is a public bus service from Harlow town centre to Epping, and to Ongar from Brentwood and Chelmsford. Parking at the Railway’s stations is reserved for disabled drivers with blue badges. There are public car parks in Ongar a short walk away from the station.

The festival is the latest special event on the Railway, which earlier this year held a steam gala.

“Whether you’re a dedicated ale enthusiast or simply looking for a fun summer day out with friends and family, there’s something here for everyone.

“Alongside the drinks, enjoy delicious food, live music and rides aboard our heritage trains through the beautiful Essex countryside. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, relaxation and summer festival fun — ideal for groups of friends, couples, families and visitors of all ages.

“This unique festival delivers a memorable weekend packed with character, entertainment and plenty to raise a glass to.”

Epping and Ongar Railway