Cidermaking was part of the
New ForestCommoner's way of life on their holdings, and in Burley, this old-fashioned craft has been revived. Using our own local orchard apples, together with fruit gathered from traditional cider orchards, the fruit is pressed during October, November and December when the different varieties become ripe. After fermentation, the cider is blended into freshly emptied whisky barrels to enhance the flavour. You can taste and buy draught cider from the barrels in the cowshed.
As a working small-holding, there are usually some animals for the children to see, as well as locally-made preserves, wines and handmade pottery for sale in the shop.
We are also home to 'The Stable Gallery' which houses a large selection of prints by local artist Barry Whitcher. Come along and see his unique style of photography including forest landscapes, ponies and forest life.
Our annual steam pressing open weekend held mid October is a chance to see cider made in the old fashioned way with three very different vintage presses working as well as other traditional exhibits and engines.
