THE much-loved New Forest Cider Festival returns to Burley this weekend, promising traditional fun and local flavour.
Running on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th October at the New Forest Cider Farm in Pound Lane, the event will celebrate the craft of cider making with demonstrations using the farm’s vintage presses.
There will be a wide variety of ciders to taste and take home, and the festival will also feature live music and “country entertainment”.
Organiser Mary Topp, of New Forest Cider, said: “Our festival has become a real highlight of the year for us here in Burley. It’s a celebration of traditional cider-making and rural life, but also of the community and visitors who make it so special.
“We’re really proud of the atmosphere it brings – it’s all about good company, great music, and a proper taste of the New Forest.”
Visitors can look forward to a packed programme including a solo performance from Mark Lyons of Two Man Travelling Medicine Show on Saturday afternoon, and Kimari Raven Music on Sunday.
Firm festival favourites The Skimmity Hitchers will also return with their trademark cider-fuelled mayhem and singalong tunes on both days.
Alongside the music, there will be country craft displays, and ferret racing, alongside delicious food from local business the Comanche Barbecue. With free tractor and trailer rides from the village to the farm, it promises to be a “truly great family day out”.
The festival runs from 11am to 5pm each day, with entry costing £5 for adults. Children under 14 go free.
For more details, visit www.newforestcider.co.uk
