Heritage and Traditional
We begin our journey at the legendary Somerset Cider Brandy Company, nestled at Burrow Hill near Kingsbury Episcopi. This is one of the most historic cider makers in the country, distilling Somerset cider into apple brandy in the traditional way.
Burrow Hill’s orchards produce some of the finest apples, which are then transformed into award-winning ciders and brandies. A visit here is a sensory experience—wander through the orchards, see the copper stills in action, and taste their Somerset Cider Brandy and Kingston Black Apple Aperitif.
Try: Any of their brandies, from the smooth three-year-old to the rich, complex 20-year-aged brandy.
Cafe and Sampling
A short drive away, Bere Cider Company is a hidden gem in the Somerset cider scene. This small, family-run cider farm has been producing proper farmhouse cider for over 60 years. Unlike the commercial brands, Bere Cider is crafted using traditional methods, fermented naturally and packed full of character.
The taproom is a great place to meet fellow cider lovers, chat with the makers, and enjoy a proper scrumpy straight from the barrel. The rustic setting and welcoming atmosphere make it an essential stop on the tour.
Try: Their award-winning Yarlington Mill, Warm, friendly and delicious
Rustic and Powerful
Next up is Tricky Cider, a name that’s becoming increasingly well-known for its bold and characterful ciders. Their ciders range from smooth and easy-drinking to robust and complex, with something to suit every palate. If you love trying cider straight from the source, this is a must-visit stop. Check before you travel as opening times vary.
Try: Their UFO Cider, a deep, dry, full-bodied cider that hits with a punch.
Where the locals go
Next, we visit North Down Orchard, a small, independent cider orchard producing some of the finest natural ciders in Somerset. North Down Orchard lets the apples do the talking. Tucked away in the countryside near Crewkerne, this orchard is perfect for those who love cider in its purest form. The team here is passionate about sustainable farming and traditional cider-making methods, ensuring each bottle is a true expression of the apples and the land.
Try: Their Medium Farmhouse Cider, fully apple flavoursome, perfect for a summers evening with a BBQ.
Farmhouse Cider
For a true taste of heritage, Heck’s Cider in Street is a must. The Heck family has been making cider in Somerset since 1841, and their reputation for producing high-quality, traditional farmhouse cider is second to none.
One of the highlights here is their extensive selection of single-variety ciders, allowing you to taste how different apples create distinctive flavours. Their cider shop is a dream for cider lovers, stocked with a range of beautifully crafted drinks to take home.
Try: Their Dabinett Single Variety Cider, smooth, rich, and full of apple character.
A proper wet pub!
Our final stop is The Wyndham, a historic thatched pub in Kingsbury Episcopi, known for its incredible cider selection and warm, welcoming atmosphere. This pub has been at the heart of the local cider-drinking community for centuries, and today, it continues to serve some of Somerset’s finest.
With a focus on local cider makers, The Wyndham offers a fantastic range, from crisp and refreshing to deep and tannic. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the day’s cider adventure over a hearty meal and a glass of your new favourite Somerset cider.
Try: A anything from their wall of cider, featuring a selection of local ciders to compare and contrast.