We’re all pretty familiar with visiting distilleries, and even the Guinness Experience in Dublin, but what about a cider mill? It might not be a visit you’ve considered before, but Westons Cider Mill in Herefordshire is a great family day out, with much more to offer than just the cider. 

Nestled in the beautiful Herefordshire countryside, Westons Cider Mill has been pressing, blending and fermenting apple juice since 1880. With the 5th generation of the Weston family now at the helm, the brand is going from strength to strength. 

200-year-old oak vats are still in use today

Westons values its heritage, and while it uses new, more sustainable techniques within the cider-making process, it also tries to hold onto as many of the old traditions and family-oriented ideals as possible. Opening the Cider Mill and orchards to visitors and sharing those traditions is something that Westons is proud of, and that shines through, from the warm reception and well-curated tours. 

What is there to see at Westons Cider Mill? 

If you’re planning a visit to Herefordshire – Much Marcle, to be more precise – dropping in to the cider mill is a must. Unlike a distillery, there are plenty of things to keep the whole family entertained while you’re there. As well as producing different varieties of cider, Westons make a delicious apple juice too, so everyone can join in with a tasting. 

Westons is a working cider mill, so taking a tour of the 17th-century farmhouse and mill, and getting up close to the huge wooden cider vats, is an eye-opening experience. The smell of the fermenting apples and the aged oak permeates the site with a deliciously sweet and sharp tang. With knowledgeable tour guides to show you around, it’s fascinating to learn about the history of the cider mill and the art of cider making. 

Visits at different times of the year will mean different things to see. Head to Westons in the autumn, as the apples are being harvested and brought to the mill, and you’ll see around 700 tonnes of apples per day being delivered and processed for the next season of cider making. 

apple delivery at Westons Cider Mill
Apples being delivered from a local grower

Once the apples are delivered from either Westons’ own orchards or one of the 200 local growers they partner with, they are washed and mashed into small chunks before being juiced and fermented. 

The tour lasts for around one and a half hours, and after all that walking and absorbing of information, you’re going to want a little refreshment. The last stop is a tutored tasting session, where you’ll be able to try a few of the brand’s different cider varieties, including an excellent low-alcohol version. For younger visitors, there will be apple juice available, so no one will miss out on the goodies. 

What about the kids? 

There are no age restrictions on the Westons Cider Mill tour, but the ins and outs of cider making might not be overwhelmingly interesting to everyone in the family. Cider production aside, there is plenty for the little ones to enjoy during a visit. 

Shire horses played a large part at the mill during its history, and while they aren’t used as part of the process today, there are still some in residence. For the horse lovers, there is a Shire horse experience available (ages 12 upwards), during which you can get up close and personal with these gentle giants, learning about grooming, handling and their role in the cider business of yesteryear. 

Westons Cider Mill orchards

With so much beautiful countryside surrounding the cider mill, it would be a shame not to get out and explore while you’re visiting. There are a number of walking trails around the site, so if the weather allows, take a stroll through the orchards and enjoy the wildlife that thrives within the old apple and pear trees and wildflowers. 

To help burn off any excess energy, there’s a playground with swings, slides and a zip wire to keep the kids amused while you relax. The park is open from Easter until October and is free for all visitors to use. 

What about refreshments? 

The Scrumpy House is the onsite restaurant, which has everything from coffee, cakes and sandwiches to a two-course meal. A breakfast menu is also available if you’re peckish before you start. 

The food at The Scrumpy House from locally sourced ingredients, giving a seasonal glimpse into the area. There is inside seating, as well as outside tables and dining pods, but booking is advised during the busy summer period. Takeaway options are also available. 

Westons Cider Mill: The verdict

Westons Cider Mill and Farmhouse make for an interesting day out that the whole family can enjoy. From the history of Westons to the 200-year-old oak vats that are still in use, there is so much to learn and experience on a tour of the mill. 

Tours are available throughout the day, seven days a week and at just £15 per adult (family tickets are also available), they offer excellent value for money. 

Westons cider mill shop
The shop sells local produce as well as Westons Cider

If the sun is shining, spend some time roaming the footpaths around the cider mill, making the most of the glorious natural surroundings that are teeming with wildlife. The kids will enjoy walking through the orchards and then head back to The Scrumpy House for a well-deserved ice cream. 

Stocked up on a few of my favourite varieties

If cider production and history aren’t something that holds much appeal, the restaurant and shop are also open every day, so you can drop in for a bite and a pint, then select a few bottles to take home. 

As family days out go, Westons Cider Mill has a little bit of everything to make for an enjoyable day. It’s simple, fun and won’t leave you broke at the end of the day.

What: Westons Cider Mill
Where: The Bounds, Much Marcle, Ledbury, Herefordshire
How much: Tours from £15 per adult, family tickets (2 adults and up to three children) £36
Average Janes rating: ★★★★☆

Sam Huff
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