By Isle of Wight Observer
The IW Steam Railway will, once again, host its much-loved Cider & Cheese Festival tomorrow, Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September, at Havenstreet Station.
Held inside The Barn, the annual event promises visitors a mouth-watering weekend, with 25 different ciders and a similar number of cheeses to sample. “There really is something to tickle everyone’s taste buds,” said event organiser, Liz Tagart.
For those arriving by road, admission to the railway is free across the weekend. If you’d rather leave the car behind, frequent steam trains will run to Havenstreet, linking with the Island Line at Smallbrook Junction and Southern Vectis route 9 buses at Wootton. A return fare costs just £10.
The bar will be open from 11am to 5pm each day, with cheese-tastings available until 4pm.
Bar manager, Lindsay McComb, said: “Many people treat the fruit ciders as the new cocktail; my favourite is Lilly’s Rum Cider, but we’ve also got classics like Sandford Devon Scrumpy for the traditionalists.”
Food lovers can enjoy a wide range of cheeses specially selected by chef, Stuart Angus, including local favourites like Briddlesford Red and Isle of Wight Blue, alongside mainland specialities such as Dorset Blue Vinny. Vegan and vegetarian options will also be on offer.