Sturminster Newton’s much-loved Real Ale & Cider Festival returns for its 11th year from 31st May to 2nd June – and organisers at The Exchange promise that 2025 is shaping up to be their biggest and best yet.
Held as part of Sturminster’s Big Weekend, the festival is a celebration of great beer and brilliant music. With free entry all weekend, it’s one of the town’s liveliest events – and a vital fundraiser for The Exchange, a registered charity that receives no external funding.
Festivalgoers can look forward to an outstanding selection of real ales, ciders and perries from breweries including Sixpenny, Hop Back, Cerne Abbas, Hattie Brown’s, Wriggle Valley and Dynamite, with more still to be announced. New for 2025 is a dedicated gin bar – perfect for those seeking a different kind of tipple.
There’s also a full weekend of live music, starting with The Leggomen on Friday night. Saturday’s headliners are the ever-popular Wonky Donkeys, with support from Theya, and Sunday features performances from Pete Robson and Murphy’s Lore Trio. Festival food will be provided by Gia’s wood-fired pizza, serving fresh, hot food on Saturday and Sunday.
Sponsor a barrel!
As well as being a fantastic community event, the festival plays a vital role in supporting The Exchange. To help keep the venue thriving, local businesses and individuals are invited to support the event through sponsorship:
Barrel sponsorship – £80 (branding, beer guide mention and website listing)
Cider box sponsorship – £60 (branding and online/printed recognition)
Gin bar sponsorship – bespoke packages available
Sturminster Newton Economic Development Coordinator, Jacqui Wragg, says: ‘This festival brings the whole community together. It’s a wonderful weekend of music, food and drink – and it’s a vital part of keeping The Exchange running. We’d love to see even more local businesses get involved this year.’
Raise a glass to a great weekend – and to keeping The Exchange at the heart of Sturminster Newton.
To sponsor or find out more, call 01258 475137.
Sponsored by Wessex Internet
