A MUCH-loved festive tradition is back on draught as pubs across Tameside gear up for the Winter Warmer Wander Ale Trail, giving beer lovers the chance to hop between cosy locals, sample seasonal brews and raise the bar on winter cheer.
Running from November 14 to December 28, this year’s trail features 65 pubs across Greater Manchester, celebrating winter beer styles such as porters, old ales and barley wines – the kind of drinks that truly help people tap into the Christmas spirit.
In Stalybridge, trail-goers can make a station stop at the award-winning Station Buffet, enjoy a micro adventure at Bridge Beers, or take a sip in society at Wetherspoon’s Society Rooms. Over in Ashton-under-Lyne, The Ash Tree and Halfway House are also pulling out all the stops.
Following the tram towards Manchester, the Sheldon Arms on the edge of Audenshaw will be serving JW Lees’ Plum Pudding, a seasonal favourite that only appears once a year — truly a beer worth pudding on your list. Near Droylsden tram stop, the Silly Country micropub will be showcasing an impressive range of dark and winter ales to warm your cockles.
Tameside’s micropub scene is also well represented, with The Angel in Dukinfield, Jack’s Bar in Hyde, and 3 Drinks Beyond in Gee Cross all featuring beers from independent brewers — the perfect opportunity to try something brewed and improved.
To win prizes, participants must collect stickers from at least 12 pubs, drinking half a pint of cask winter ale at each. Those who go the extra mile – 24, 36 or the full 65 – can earn embroidered garments and entry to a prize draw for a case of beer. Every successful entrant also receives bottles or cans, including Robinsons Old Tom barley wine – a reward that’s certainly worth raising a glass to.
Organiser Sue Lightfoot said:
“Once again, the Winter Warmer Wander provides a fun challenge in the run-up to Christmas. The range of independently brewed winter ales in our local pubs is astonishing, and I’m sure everyone will find something to tickle their taste buds.
“Pubs have faced a rough few years, so please go out and support the fantastic venues involved — let’s make this year one to cheers about.”
The Winter Warmer Wander is organised by volunteers from Stockport & South Manchester CAMRA, with support from neighbouring branches including High Peak, which covers Tameside. First launched in 2006, the trail continues to grow — with last year seeing nearly 160 completions and around 4,400 pub visits in total.