About Boots and Beer

Since the Black Sheep Brewery began brewing in 1992 we have always had a strong presence in the Yorkshire Dales. When the crisis of Foot and Mouth Disease hit the area in 2001 it had catastrophic impacts not only on the farmers, but also the local communities which survived on tourists visiting the area. In an attempt to reopen the countryside and to get the tourism industry restarted, the first Black Sheep Boots and Beer Walking Festival was held in Hawes in September 2002.

From this first festival in 2002 with only 70 walkers, the event has gone from strength to strength, with over 485 walkers taking part in the 2009 event, a great weekend was had by all. With a nationwide audience and a large percentage of repeat visitors, Boots and Beer Walking Festival is a key event in any walker's calendar!

Combining great walks, beautiful countryside, fantastic beer and excellent entertainment; what could be better?