Wells Cathedral in Somerset is set to celebrate local heritage with the launch of its inaugural Cider and Cheese Festival on Saturday, September 27. This unique event brings together the county’s top cider and cheese producers for a day of tasting, learning, and lively entertainment within the stunning cathedral surroundings.
Visitors will have the opportunity to sample an impressive selection of Somerset’s acclaimed ciders, including offerings from Bray’s Cider, made from apples grown in regenerative orchards near Taunton, and Wilkins Cider, acclaimed as the top Somerset cider by The Independent. Other cider producers joining the festival include Burrow Hill, Dowding’s, Glastonbury Abbey, Honey’s, Sheppy’s, Thatchers, and many more. For those seeking alternatives, cocktails and gin from Still Sisters, Wells Cathedral’s own Dean Turner’s gins, wines from Canned Wine Co., and non-alcoholic refreshments from Wise Bartender will be available.
Cheese lovers will be delighted by selections from Wookey Hole Cheddar, naturally matured in the atmospheric Somerset caves, and The Bath Soft Cheese Company, known for their traditional Bath Soft Cheese and unique varieties like Wyfe of Bath and Merry Wyfe. Additional cheeses from Barber’s, Glastonbury Cheeses, Lye Cross Farm, and The Newt will also feature prominently.
The festival is more than just tasting; it promises an engaging program of entertainment featuring Somerset-based performers. Attendees can enjoy live sets from tribute band The Mangledwurzels, singing from community choir PRP Contemporary Voices, and a vibrant performance by the seven-piece cover band Jukebox Banned. Family-friendly activities will ensure fun for visitors of all ages.
This new festival aligns with Wells Cathedral’s mission to become one of England’s most joyful and welcoming cathedrals, as shared by The Very Reverend Toby Wright, Dean of Wells. Thanks to generous sponsorship from Mogers Drewett, Thatchers, Charlie Bigham’s, Bray’s Cider, and St Andrew’s Press, the festival is a celebration of Somerset’s rich cultural and culinary traditions.
The Wells Cathedral Cider & Cheese Festival runs from 12 noon to 9pm. Tickets are priced at £17.50 for adults and £12.50 for under 18s, including access to all activities, two half-pint drink tokens, a tasting notes program, and a commemorative glass. Additional drink tokens can be bought on-site for £2.50 each.
For ticket details and further information, visit the Wells Cathedral website.