To celebrate National Apple Day, which is held here in the UK every year on 21st October, Alastair and myself (Emma) set off to check one of The Foot Trails hikes in the Somerset Levels, a region steeped in legends, mystery… and cider.
The weather was stunning: bright, sunny and crisp. Perfect for wandering through peaceful villages and between row upon row of trees laden with apples, the bright sunlight dappling through the leaves and onto the grass below.
Occasionally, tractors full of apples passed us by, heading to and from the local cider farm with a sense of activity and excitement that always seems to accompany any kind of harvest. The air was heavy with the sweet scent of apples, adding to the sense that we were in a totally unique part of the South West, witnessing a tradition that had been taking place for millennia.
The miles disappeared beneath our feet as we walked through the lush, green countryside until we reached the iconic tree on the hill that signalled our arrival at the local cider farm. Before we entered the yard, we ventured up the hill curious about what we might see on such a clear day. We weren’t disappointed, the view was breathtaking, the fields and orchards stretching out for miles in every direction. We paused a while under the tree to take in this magnificent sight, wondering how much (or how little) it had changed over the centuries.
Then we descended to the farm. It was everything I could wish for in a traditional Somerset yard, a ramshackle collection of ancient brick buildings, a haughty cockerel strutting past, a couple of elderly sheep dogs basking in the sun’s rays, piles of apples waiting to be mulched and pressed.
As we stepped into the farm shop, our eyes took a few seconds to adjust to the dark oak interior while our noses were assailed by the wonderful scent of hundreds of years of cider making, the very fumes infused into the giant oak beams around us. There were barrels everywhere, and in the back, huge vats full of cider. It was a marvellous spot to end our walk. A tranquil rural haven amongst a sea of cider orchards. Although we resisted the temptation to sample the shop’s wares, we both agreed that we’d be back before Christmas to stock up on gifts for family and friends!
We were walking one of the day trails in our Myths & Legends walking tour. If you’d like to find out more, simply get in touch.
Words and pictures from Alastair & Emma @FootTrails
