A unique beer made in the Roman style will be served up in a Newcastle musuem at a special event which is described as an after-hours cultural experience where people can learn new skills and try out new tastes.
Great North Museum: Hancock is hosting Herb, Hop and Folk on March 3 which is out to appeal to all the senses. Starting at 6pm, the evening will be focused upon foraging, drinks, craft and music - all aiming to bring visitors closer to North East history, its stories and to nature.
One of the night's attractions will be Hancock's bespoke museum beer - a herbal 'Gruit' which is basically a herb mixture which was used in beer before the wide use of hops. The beer is made in the style of a Roman ale as would have been drunk on Hadrian’s Wall more than 2,000 years ago.
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It's been created in collaboration with city breweries Northern Alchemy and Stu Brew - the student-run microbrewery based at Newcastle University - and uses rosemary grown in the museum’s own study garden. In keeping with the natural environment theme, visitors also will find a nature stall by Wild Intrigue, which hosts wildlife experiences across the region, and will have an opportunity to learn from Northumberland foragers Northern Wilds about the art of finding free, fresh ingredients growing on the doorstep.
Newcastle University researcher and artist Iulianiya Grigoryeva will show people how to creatively use kitchen leftovers to make new objects and materials for the home. And local musical talents, including the free-flowing Noize Choir and experimental musicians and composition students and staff from the university, will be providing an atmospheric soundscape for the evening.
Herb, Hop and Folk, which is part of the museum's Great North Nights series of events, will run from 6pm to 8pm. Tickets cost £6 and have to be booked in advance: see here. Information about other upcoming events at the museum, including its half-term activities, can be found here.
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