MPs gathered in the Houses of Parliament this week to mark World Cider Day, celebrating the rich tradition and growing innovation of British cider making. The event, hosted by the National Association of Cider Makers (NACM), brought together a large number of Members of Parliament to sample a wide array of ciders, from heritage styles to modern low and no-alcohol varieties.
The UK is the largest cider market in the world, with a category value of £3.09 billion annually. Cider making is not only a deeply rooted rural tradition but also a vital sector, contributing to the British economy through employment, tourism, farming and community development.
Ciders from across the country including Herefordshire, Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and beyond were showcased. MPs were invited to taste a range of still, sparkling, and low-alcohol ciders, including bag-in-box formats, a key offering for the hospitality sector. The event highlighted the diversity, quality, and sustainability of modern British cider making.
World Cider Day is now celebrated worldwide from beach bars in Australia to bars in the US with cider makers in South Africa, Japan, Europe, and beyond joining the festivities.
Mark Hopper, Public Affairs Director of the NACM, said:
“The traditions of cider making go back centuries in Great Britain, with roots firmly planted in our rural communities. Cider is significantly important to the economy through employment and farming. We are thrilled that so many MPs came along to recognise the importance of cider and support our industry.”
Sarah Dyke MP, Member of Parliament for Glastonbury and Somerton, said:
“Cider is a proud part of our local heritage in Somerset and across the UK. Celebrating World Cider Day is not only a toast to tradition but a chance to honour the dedication and craftsmanship of British cider makers. I’m delighted to raise a glass in Parliament to recognise their vital contribution to our rural communities and economy.”
