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Museum of Cider, Hereford

Discover the rich heritage of cider making in Hereford’s historic Bulmers factory with tastings, exhibits, and interactive experiences.

4.6

Located in the historic former Bulmers cider factory in Hereford, the Museum of Cider offers an immersive journey through the rich heritage of cider making. Visitors explore original champagne cider cellars, cooper workshops, and vintage exhibits that detail the evolution of cider from traditional farm drink to modern craft beverage. The museum also features interactive displays, tastings, a gift shop, and a tearoom, making it a compelling destination for cider enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

A brief summary to Museum of Cider

  • Cider Museum, Pomona Pl, Hereford, HR4 0EF, GB
  • +441432354207
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your visit at least 24 hours in advance to secure entry, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Take advantage of the free cider and apple juice samples to explore local flavors before purchasing.
  • Visit the tearoom for homemade cakes and coffee to complement your museum experience.
  • Plan a group visit or guided tour to gain deeper insights into cider history and production.
  • Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the museum’s exhibits, tastings, and gift shop.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Hereford city center to Pomona Place, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run regularly but check schedules in advance. The stop is a short walk from the museum entrance. Tickets cost around £2-£4.

  • Car

    Driving to the Museum of Cider is convenient with free onsite parking available. Travel times from central Hereford are about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking can fill quickly on weekends, so early arrival is recommended.

  • Taxi

    Local taxi services from Hereford city center to the museum typically take 5-10 minutes and cost approximately £6-£10. Taxis provide a direct and accessible option, especially for visitors with mobility needs.

  • Walking

    For those staying in central Hereford, the museum is about a 20-25 minute walk along mostly flat terrain. This option is suitable for visitors comfortable with moderate walking and provides a pleasant way to see the city en route.

Museum of Cider location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Museum of Cider

A Legacy Rooted in Herefordshire's Cider Tradition

The Museum of Cider is housed in the former Bulmers cider factory, a site steeped in the history of one of Herefordshire’s most iconic industries. Established in 1981, the museum preserves and celebrates the story of cider production from orchard to pint. Visitors can walk through original champagne cider cellars dating back to 1889, gaining insight into the traditional methods of cider fermentation and storage. The museum’s collection includes a rare assortment of engraved English Lead Crystal cider glasses from the 18th century, alongside 19th-century watercolours commissioned to illustrate the Herefordshire Pomona, a seminal work cataloguing local apple and pear varieties.

Exploring the Art and Science of Cidermaking

Exhibits detail the entire cider-making process, from apple growing and harvesting to milling, pressing, and fermentation. Visitors encounter a cooper’s workshop, vat houses, and various cider-making memorabilia, which together paint a vivid picture of the craft’s evolution. Interactive computers and vintage film footage provide engaging educational content, while audio-visual displays enrich the experience with historical context. The museum also highlights the unique tradition of champagne cider, offering a glimpse into this specialized sparkling cider production.

Engaging Experiences and Educational Opportunities

The museum welcomes groups and school visits, offering hands-on activities such as apple pressing during the autumn harvest. Guided tours and specialist talks on the history of cider and orcharding are available by appointment, providing deeper understanding for enthusiasts and scholars. Children can enjoy dressing up in 19th-century replica smocks, and there is even an adult-sized apple costume for a fun photo opportunity.

A Welcoming Space for Tasting and Shopping

Beyond the exhibits, the Museum of Cider features a tearoom serving coffee, tea, and homemade cakes, creating a relaxing atmosphere to reflect on the visit. The gift shop offers an extensive selection of over 150 craft ciders, perries, Hereford Cider Brandy, and locally produced spirits, along with preserves, confectionery, and books. Visitors can sample several ciders and apple juices before purchasing, enhancing the sensory connection to the region’s cider heritage.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, the museum is closed on Mondays but opens on bank holidays. It provides free parking, disabled access, free Wi-Fi, and public toilets. Dogs are welcome in the shop and tearoom areas but not in the museum itself, except for service animals. The museum’s central location near Hereford city center and landmarks like the Cathedral makes it an ideal cultural stop for visitors.

Preserving a Cultural Icon for Future Generations

The Museum of Cider not only preserves the technical and social history of cider making but also serves as a cultural hub celebrating Herefordshire’s identity. Volunteers play an active role in supporting collections, events, and visitor services, ensuring the museum remains a vibrant and educational destination. Through its exhibitions, tastings, and community engagement, the Museum of Cider invites visitors to appreciate the enduring legacy and craft behind one of England’s most beloved beverages.

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