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Pub Revives Century-Old Cider Barrel Dash Inspired by Local Legend

The Packhorse Inn, a 400-year-old pub near Bath, is bringing history to life with a unique cider barrel challenge rooted in nearly a century-old local folklore.

On Saturday, July 12, the pub will host its inaugural event where teams dressed in fancy dress will race to retrieve cider kegs from a nearby village and carry them uphill back to the pub.

This spirited competition commemorates a legendary event from the early 20th century when the Packhorse reportedly ran out of cider. According to local tradition, patrons placed a bet to see if a fresh keg could be fetched and returned before closing time.

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James Dixon, the pub’s general manager, explained, “For years, the story has circulated about a night when the cider ran dry, sparking a challenge among drinkers to fetch a new keg on foot and return within 30 minutes. Three men accepted the bet, sprinted to the local Midford cider farm—now Honey’s Cider—grabbed a full keg, and raced back to the pub to the cheers of everyone. That night reportedly ended with a celebratory ‘lock in.’”

To honour this tale, teams of three will depart the pub at staggered five-minute intervals, carrying wooden beams, straps, and an empty keg. They will run to Upper Midford to collect a full cider barrel—55kg for men’s and mixed teams, and 35kg for women’s teams. After enjoying half a pint each, they will race back uphill to the Packhorse.

Fancy dress is mandatory, with prizes awarded for the fastest teams in each category, best fancy dress, best team spirit, and the wooden spoon for last place.

“So far, 18 of the 25 team slots have been filled,” James said. “If you’re eager to make history by participating or just want to enjoy the festivities, you can find more details on our website.”

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