In Herefordshire, in England’s rolling West Midlands region, apples and pears are gold. More than 9,500 acres of orchards produce in excess of 63 million gallons of cider annually, and the apple fruit’s elixir was historically so highly prized that until 1887 an acceptable method of reimbursing farm workers for their labor was to pay a portion of their wages in cider. Today, alcoholic cider made with fermented cider apples, and the lesser-known alcoholic perry drink (sometimes called pear cider) made from special “perry pears” such as the Blakeney Red, are highly prized beverages that spark seasonal festivals and celebrations throughout the region and in nearby Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.

A dedicated Cider Route — navigable by car or bicycle, with many areas perfect for long, crisp walks — has been established in Herefordshire. Start with the quirky Cider Museum in the town of Hereford, where you can learn about the process of cider-making, watch fascinating archival footage of early production, view historic advertising memorabilia and a collection of English lead crystal cider flutes. Then head out to sample for yourself at Ross-on-Wye Cider and Perry Company, Dunkertons Cider Mill, Westons Cider and Oliver’s Cider and Perry. Don’t miss the lovely Once Upon a Tree located at Dragon Orchard, winners of BBC Food Farming Awards 2012 Best Drinks Producer.

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