Charters’ silver celebrations

This September Charters celebrates its silver anniversary and 25 years of bringing great beer and great music to Peterborough. The Moment talks to Chris Ward, the new General Manager on his plans for this city venue

For 25 years, Charters has served its discerning customers some of the region’s finest beers and plenty of live music to enjoy it to. New General Manager Chris Ward arrives at an exciting time as the floating real ale barge marks its landmark quarter century.

‘Charters has always been one of the top destinations in Peterborough for live music,’ explains Chris, ‘and my priority is to grow that side of things so we become the number one place for live bands.’ This is music to anyone’s ears, but there’s good news for the real ale enthusiast too. ‘I come from a very strong beer background, so I also plan to improve the selection of craft beer and ale on offer, whether it’s kegged, canned or bottled. Beer is where I want to be and that’s what we’ve got here.’

More beer

Regulars will know that Charters already has a fine range of ales, with upwards of eight at any one time. Chris plans to maintain the choice of popular ales already on offer while seeking out more unusual craft beers and ales. ‘Craft beers are simply small-batch beers. They’re never mass produced. They are not made to a price but out of passion,’ says Chris. ‘These are the beer-lovers beers.’ Joining craft beers from across the country will be some unusual beers from America and Europe. ‘America is just massive now. It’s not all Budweiser and Miller in the States! From a craft point of view the Americans are probably a few years ahead of us Brits.’

Anniversary plans

One of Chris’ first jobs as General Manager has been to prepare for Charters’ 25th anniversary celebrations. The extended weekend of 15th-18th September is when it’s all happening. On Thursday night the bar will host a quiz night on all things 1991 – from music and sport to beerrelated trivia. Friday night welcomes covers band Miscellaneous, while on Saturday evening it’s the turn of regulars Lexi Green and The Indigo Blues. Then on Sunday afternoon, in the garden marquee, it’s rock and roll, rhythm and blues group The Glorious One Eyed Cats, who wrap up the last of this season’s Summer Sundays.

On both the Saturday and Sunday there will also be a barbeque to sample – the perfect accompaniment to all that craft beer and real ale. ‘We’re also going to get a giant birthday cake made, so people can help us celebrate the traditional way,’ adds Chris. And there’s a remarkable twist that’s sure to bring a smile to every beer connoisseur: ‘There will be a promotion on beer, with a limited batch available to buy at 1991 prices!’ Let’s get the party started then!

Charters, 01733 370500
www.charters-bar.com