What to do at the Weekend: Visit Healey’s Cider Farm in Cornwall
Healey’s Cider Farm in Cornwall (or Healey’s Cyder Farm, depending on where you are from) is a bit of a gem in our view.
In fact, you don’t even have to be a cider lover to appreciate this brewery tour.
…. Of course, that could be the cider talking.
What we did at the weekend:
Visited Healey’s Cornish Cyder Farm
Location: Truro, Cornwall
Our rating: 7/10
What is Healey’s Cider Farm?
Tucked away near little cathedral city of Truro in Cornwall, you’ll find Healey’s Cornish Cider Farm.
Or “Cyder Farm” if you are from that part of the country (we will definitely get in trouble if we don’t at least make reference to this).
On a weekend away in March, we took a trip to this little gem of a brewery for purely academic / blog-related reasons, of course.
As readers of this blog will know, we always manage to end up at a pub, bar, or brewery in some shape or form.
Over 30 years in the making
The truth is that Healey’s Cider Farm is more than just a place where cider is made, rather it’s an emblem of Cornwall’s rich agricultural heritage and traditions.
Healey’s Cider Farm was founded in 1986 by David and Kay Healey, who had a vision of reviving traditional cider-making methods in Cornwall.
Safe to say, they succeeded.
This family-owned farm has been crafting award-winning cider for over 30 years and it sold nationwide.
A Cornish Institution
For those visiting Cornwall, a trip to Healey’s Cider Farm offers a chance to experience a genuine piece of the region’s heritage in a way that is both educational and fun.
Whether you’re strolling through the orchards, savoring a glass of cider, or learning about the history of the farm, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the craft and care that goes into every bottle of Healey’s cider.
What is Included on the Healey’s Cider Farm Tour?
Really, this question should have been: How much free booze will I get on the tour?
So, we’ll cut to the chase because this is bit everyone wants to know.
The answer is, a decent amount, actually.
Towards the back-end of the tour you come out into a bar area, and you are able (if you like) to sample every single bottle on offer.
(Of course, Ben did and he doesn’t particularly like cider).
As far as we can tell, you can stay as long as you like and are treated to any of number of original and flavoured ciders.
There are non-alcoholic options for those designated drivers too.
The sample portion of this tour is well worth the entry fee alone.
Taste Testing
During the day, we were also willing participants in a little taste testing for market research.
We were given 4 more samples of cider and asked to describe the flavour and rank in terms of preference.
We were more than happy to lend a hand on this – all in the name of research, of course.
What Ciders do Healey’s do?
Probably the most famous cider brewed by the Healey’s farm is Rattler Cornish Cider.
Named for the Cornish Rattler apple which forms its flagship cider, drinkers will have probably seen the distinctive rattlesnake in sunglasses that adorns the front of the box / bottle.
Fun fact: the Rattler apple takes its name from the rattling sound the seeds make when a ripe rattler is shaken.
Anyway, in terms of cider flavour, the fruit gives the cider a crisp, refreshing taste with a tang of acidity.
Premium Ciders
They also make some very cool premium ciders, that are uniquely flavoured depending on which barrel they have come from.
A bottle of the bourbon barreled cider came home with us… it did not survive the weekend.
Not just Cider
Alongside the strong traditional scrumpy, flavoured ciders and premium cask ciders, Healey’s Cider Farm produces other delicious tasting spirits.
Interestingly, Healey’s is actually the only distillery in Cornwall.
They produce a great range of Cornish Brandy, Cornish Gin, and Cornish Whiskey, which is all distilled on-site – and very nice they are too.
Jams and Preserves
Plus, if you’re in the mood for something other than booze, they have a preserves and jam kitchen/ shop on-site.
It smells amazing in there, by-the-way!
If you’re looking for free samples, then definitely swing by here as you can try some (and buy) some of their delicious preserves.
The shop also stocks a selection of Cornish cheeses, meats, and other artisanal products, making it the perfect place to pick up a taste of Cornwall to take home.
What else does the Healey Farm Tour Include?
The farm is open to visitors year-round, offering an educational self-guided tour that provides an in-depth look at the cider-making process.
This tour takes you through the grounds, the press house, and the cellar, where you can see the oak barrels in which the cider is aged.
You’ll also get fascinating insights into the history of cider making in Cornwall and the specific techniques used at Healey’s are highlighted throughout.
Littered with vintage equipment and historical artifacts, it has museum vibes (in a good way).
You’ll even take a trip through the bottling plant, where you can see first-hand how the cider is bottled and packaged.
They also have cute farm animals, so that’s also definitely a win.
Is there anywhere to eat at Healey’s Cider Farm?
Yes!
No visit to Healey’s would be complete without a stop at the farm’s restaurant, The Old Bottlery.
This charming eatery offers a menu that celebrates the best of Cornish cuisine, with many dishes featuring ingredients sourced directly from the farm.
We nipped in for a cup of tea and a scone (with clotted cream and strawberry jam of course) before starting the tour.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Cornish pasty, or something more substantial, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite in The Old Bottlery.
And of course, there’s a wide selection of Healey’s ciders to accompany your meal.
Is there anything to do for kids at Healey’s Cider Farm?
Healey’s Cider Farm is a destination that appeals to visitors of all ages.
As a family business, the farm is very family-friendly, with plenty of activities to keep younger visitors entertained.
As we mentioned before, kids can meet the farm animals, which include goats, pigs, and chickens, or take a ride on a tractor through the orchards.
Seasonal Events
There are also seasonal events and activities throughout the year, such as apple picking in the autumn and cider pressing demonstrations.
For those planning a visit during the festive season, Healey’s is particularly magical at Christmas.
The farm is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a Santa’s grotto.
It’s a wonderful place to experience the holiday spirit and pick up some unique Christmas gifts.
Keep an eye on their events page here to see what they have in store.
Where is Healey’s Cider Farm?
Healey’s Cider Farm is located near Truro, Cornwall, making it easily accessible by car or public transport.
They have a large car park and you shouldn’t find it particularly difficult to park even in peak season (summer holidays).
The farm is open daily, with extended hours during the summer months.
How much does the Healey’s Cider Farm Tour cost?
The tour costs £20.00 on the door for an adult but is £16.00 when you book online – so we would obviously recommend doing that.
Children get in for £10.00 or £8.00 on online.
Full details of the entry fees can be found by visiting the Healey’s website here.
Other things to do in Cornwall
Readers of the blog will know that we love Cornwall and spend a decent chunk of time there.
If you are looking for other things to do in Cornwall, check out our post about Tintagel Castle and our favourite beaches.
