The Herefordshire parishes of Putley and Aylton are set to host Blossomtime 2024, a special springtime celebration of orchards, apples and cider.
This event, famous for its cider, dessert, and culinary fruit, takes place on Sunday 5 and Monday, May 6.
Community organisers the Big Apple Association are co-ordinating more activities than ever across three familiar venues: Putley Parish Hall, Court Farm Barn in Aylton and Dragon Orchard, each offering a unique experience.
Putley Parish Hall will serve as the welcome hub, offering parking, ticket sales, information leaflets, and guided or 'freestyle' walks around the orchards.
Lunches and teas, famed as part of the Blossomtime tradition, will be served by Aylton Church, Munsley WI, Ledbury Young Farmers and Putley WI.
Court Farm Barn will focus on arts, crafts, demonstrations, workshops and talks.
Laughing Betsy will co-ordinate a collaboration between visitors, craftspeople and artists to craft an installation reflecting themes of regeneration, re-use, natural materials and nature.
In Dragon Orchard, visitors can sample the tastings chosen from among 150 entries to the 2024 Big Apple Cider and Perry Trials, along with cider and perry makers selling their wares.
In addition, music, poetry and other entertainment will be on offer.
Alternatively, visitors can simply wander among the orchard enjoying the sights, sounds and scents of nature.
Visitors are encouraged to walk between the three venues, which are all within easy reach of each other.
For those who may need assistance or those who fancy a fun ride, a tractor and passenger trailer will be available.
Well-known speaker, Gabe Cook, the Ciderologist, and Adam Wells, author of ‘Perry: A Drinker’s Guide’, will be among the guest speakers.
The full programme details can be found at https://www.bigapple.org.uk/blossomtime/. Tickets cost £5 for adults with children under 16 entering for free and are valid for all three venues.
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