Brogdale Cider Festival, Faversham
The annual BrogdaleCider Festival taking place 24 -25 August is the opportunity to learn about different artisan ciders. Visitors can enjoy cider making demonstrations and talks, local foods, a hog-roast, orchard tours and festive entertainment. A shuttle bus will be operating to and from Faversham Station during the festival. Open daily 10am to 5pm. Adults – £8, Child – £4, Family ticket – £20. www.ciderfestivalkent.co.uk
Shepherd Neame Brewery Tour and tutored tasting, Faversham
(Variety of dates and times in August)
Take a guided tour of Shepherd Neame – Britain’s oldest brewer. See the traditional mash tuns; taste natural mineral water from the brewery’s well; try some malted barley; smell locally-grown Kentish hops; see bygone delivery vehicles and step into a recreated cooper’s workshop. Finally there’s a fascinating tutored tasting of Kentish ales and speciality lagers. Tours run most days but advance booking is strongly recommended. Allow 2 hours for the visit.
Adult – £11.50, Child (12 to 17 years) – £7.50. Please note minimum age is 12. www.shepherdneame.co.uk
Free guided Biddenden Vineyard Tours
(Selected Saturdays and Wednesdays)
Biddenden Vineyard is Kent’s oldest commercial vineyard, having been established by the Barnes family in 1969 to produce wines and ciders. Arrive at the vineyard at 9.45 for a free cup of coffee, the tour begins at 10am. There’s also an opportunity to taste wines, ciders and juices in the vineyard shop afterwards. Pre-booking is essential – 01580 291726. www.biddendenvineyards.com