With the perfect microclimate for growing cider apples and an abundance of local cider makers, cider tasting in Devon is an absolute treat! Here are our picks for the best places to sample a tipple or two.
Hunts Devon Cider, Totnes
Run by the Great Great Great Great grandchildren of the founder, the Hunt family have been creating Hunts Devon Cider for over 200 years. Using traditional methods and local Devon cider apples, they make the cider that has been enjoyed for centuries as well as sparkling and fruit ciders. Every Wednesday during June, July and August, you can take a tour of the cider production facility washed down with a generous cider tasting. To find out more of their cider making story, check out this Countryfile episode on South Devon.
Sandford Orchards, Crediton
Based in the oldest working cider mill in the UK, take a tour of the cider works to see how this independent, family owned business transforms the finest bittersweet Devon apples into award winning Sandford Orchards Cider. You’ll get to sample some of their ciders in a curated tasting session with a pizza dinner with Q&A at the end. You can also visit the Sandford Orchards Cidery at Darts Farm, where founder Barney Butterfield is making cider on their historic, 100-year-old, ‘Stowe’ cloth press – one of the only working ones left in the country.
Gray’s Devon Cider, Tedburn St Mary
Discover the art of cider making at Gray’s Devon Cider farm, with a tour of the apple orchard and tasting in the cider cellar. A great visit any time of year – from the beautiful blossom in May to festive mulled cider in December. The family grow their own apples including their very own variety, the Halstow Natural, and have been making cider since the 1600s so they certainly know a thing or two! As it is a working farm, you’ll need to call to book a date.