Sometime in August, it seems that no matter how old you are, it’s truly impossible to shake off the anticipation of Autumn and the desire to transition to a different routine that’s somehow both new and familiar at the same time. From late August, the organic drift from Summer to Autumn is richly rooted in dewy mornings and new pencil cases, followed by the re-emergence of much-loved knitwear and comforting stews bubbling on the stove.
Biologically, it’s a natural time to introduce new habits that have time to settle and integrate, before December arrives with it’s whirlwind of parties and indulgence. Autumn’s gentle rhythm offers a greater chance of success than the all or nothing pressure of the new year.
Nature’s in on the act too. Hedgerows are bursting, orchards are laden with fruits and root vegetables, squashes and brassicas are emerging from the earth. Historically, the celebration of the harvest dates back to pagan times and today we continue to gather, create and share the abundance of the season.
Harvest at Hydes
In early October we’re hosting Harvest at Hydes, our third celebration of the apple harvest at the Hydes Farmhouse. Taking place on 3 & 10 October, Harvest at Hydes is a family fun day with apples, cider making, live music and the opportunity to talk with Tom Bartram, our co-founding cider maker and cellular molecular biologist.
In the run up to the event, from 26/09, there’ll be an apple barrel placed outside the farmhouse for people to share their leftover picked, windfall and lightly bruised (not rotten!) fruit. Over the winter, the apples will be milled, pressed, wild fermented, racked, pasteurised and packed, creating a cider that will be ready to enjoy in the spring.
With music, food and drinks to fuel you, both days will be an opportunity to celebrate the harvest and sample the newest addition to the Hydes family, launching early October.
More information and tickets can be found on our dedicated events pages:
