Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any discounts for CAMRA members? Yes, when CAMRA members register at the CAMRA desk in the Roundhouse they will be given a voucher to spend on drinks.

Can we bring children to Rail Ale? Under 18s are allowed to attend the Festival until 6.00pm on each day. After 6.00pm the event is strictly over 18s only. There is no charge for children to attend.

Are dogs allowed at Rail Ale? Well behaved dogs are always welcome at the Roundhouse but please be aware that there will be crowds and lots of noise, which some dogs may find unsettling.

Is camping allowed at Rail Ale? We have a small number of pitches for caravans and camper vans which are available on a first come first served basis. To book please use this link

Are gluten free/vegan drinks and food available at Rail Ale? We do our best to source a wide variety of drinks and food to suit all tastes and requirements.  Please ask the bar servers or catering outlets if you are unsure.

Do you operate a cash bar or token system? We operate a token system at Rail Ale. These can be bought upon entry to the Festival and the bar servers will then mark off the cost of each drink as it is purchased. The tokens cannot be used at the catering outlets. No token refunds will be given after time is called.

Can you pay for your tokens with cash and/or card? Tokens can be purchased using cash or debit/credit cards. 

Is there disabled parking and access? We have a disabled parking area in the car park near the entrance. Rail Ale is fully accessible; however please be aware that there are uneven surfaces in and around the Roundhouse so please ask our volunteers for assistance if you are encountering any difficulties.

Is there seating at Rail Ale? Some seating is provided. We also permit small fold up chairs and stools to be brought into the Festival. However, these must be taken with you when you leave the Festival.

Are non-alcoholic drinks available? The Roundhouse Café and some of the Food Court vendors have a range of hot and cold drinks on sale.

Can I bring my own drinks into the Festival? Bringing any alcoholic drinks into the Festival is strictly prohibited. Bag searches will be carried out before you enter the Festival and any alcoholic drinks or liquid in unmarked containers will be confiscated. Soft drinks and water in sealed plastic bottles are permitted. Please do not bring glass bottles – these will be confiscated.

Can I smoke or vape? Smoking and vaping is permitted in the outside areas of the Festival. They are not permitted in the Roundhouse, Marquee or on the trains. Single-use or disposable vapes are not permitted under any circumstances – they pollute the environment and incorrect disposal of them can be hazardous at waste centres.