The Museum of East Anglian Life - the perfect place to sample English Ales. © Museum of East Anglian Life

Beer enthusiasts will be keen to sample the region's local fares at the Museum of East Anglian Life next week when for the 12th year running the quiet market town of Stowmarket, Suffolk, will play host to the celebrated annual event, the Stowmarket Festival of Beer and Brewing.

Over 60 East Anglian beers will be on offer in the beautiful setting of the museum’s 14th century Abbots Hall barn. Other attractions will be held both inside and outside allowing enjoyment of 3km of woodland while visiting trades and crafts exhibitions alongside.

Museum Director, Tony Butler reckons that the museum is the ideal venue for an ale festival. “Stowmarket has a long history of brewing,” he said. “There are former hop beds on the museum site near to the Rattlesden River. Although there is no longer a brewery in the town, companies like Muntons have helped the town retain its malting Traditions.”

The festival runs from Thursday 3 to Sunday July 6. Normal admission applies during the day while entry at night is £2. For further information visit www.eastanglianlife.org.uk or phone 01449 612 229.

Festival opening times:
Thursday 6pm – 11pm
Friday 12 – 11pm
Saturday 11am – 11pm
Sunday 12 – 3pm

Katie Brinkley is the 24 Hour Museum/Norwich HEART Student Writer in Norwich. Norwich Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART) is the groundbreaking initiative to regenerate, manage and promote one of the most remarkable heritage resources in the UK and in Europe.