Great Kinder Beer Barrel Race

Unusual races are often dreamed up in a pub, and the Beer Barrel Challenge is no exception! It took place annually (with only a single year off) from the late 1990s up to 2019 and involved teams of eight setting off at intervals to ascend and descend the slopes and bogs of  Kinder Scout  from the Snake Pass Inn to the Old Nags Head, a distance of  over three miles. The Snake Pass Inn has now been converted to other use so from 2023 there’s a new route starting at Newfold Farm Campsite near the Nags Head but the team rules remain. Only a limited number of teams can compete, and competitors have to construct their own barrel carrying device; at least 2 must remain in contact with the barrel at all times so no rolling or sliding is allowed (and if they get tired and thirsty en route, the carrying barrels contain only water!). Winners receive trophies and of course a barrel of beer, and lots of cash is raised for charity. Now there are also contests for individuals (the Pint races)  as well as teams, and for children (the Half Pint races).

Helpful Hints

In 2024 it was on Saturday 7th September- 2025 date ie yet to be announced.

In 2023 it was held on Saturday 23rd September, for the first time since 2019. Spectators were welcome to the start/finish at Newfold Farm Campsite in Edale (S33 7ZD) where there were refreshments on sale and a bouncy castle.

There’s no charge to coming along to watch. The race is in part along a well known route called the Grindsbrook Horseshoe, ending along a signed footpath along the old Pennine Way route down Grindsbrook into the village. Keen spectators can walk up to any spot to watch runners go past.

Entrants need to register in advance (follow links below for entries and for all the rules and new route etc).

Click here for the event Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TGKBBC/

Click here for the event website : https://www.kinderbarrelraceedale.com