We’ve always had a soft spot for Gwatkin’s Cider. Denis and Eric, who now run the place, were a little older than us at school, and back then it was just a working farm. Over the years, they’ve transformed it into one of Herefordshire’s best-loved cider and perry producers — still proudly local, still family-run, and still producing cider that tastes worlds apart from anything mass-produced.

You might have seen them pop up at festivals across the country (or even when James May and Oz Clarke paid them a visit for their TV show), but their home is right here in the Golden Valley. A visit to the farm is well worth it if you’re staying with us: you can sample their award-winning cider and perry, soak up the atmosphere, and even enjoy one of the events they host on site.

Coming up soon is their Bonfire Night on 31st October, which is always a brilliant evening of cider, fire, and live music. Throughout the year, they also run “Down on the Farm” and various other events — always a great way to experience local flavour and community spirit.

And don’t miss their Red Cow Restaurant, which has become a favourite of ours whenever we’re back. Great food, welcoming atmosphere — we’ve never been disappointed.

We always recommend our guests pop in if they’re looking for something authentic, local, and delicious. For us, Gwatkin’s Cider is part of what makes the Golden Valley so special.