Cider: a celebration of our Devon traditions

When: 19 September 2015 to 31 October 2015
Where: Museum of Barnstaple & North Devon
Time: 10am - 5pm
Cost: FREE
Suitable for: Any age

Cider: a celebration of our Devon traditions runs until 31st October 2015 and is an opportunity to delve into the past of one of the west country's most popular tipples. Discover the history of Devon cider making and find out about the revival of orchards in the county, growing ancient varieties of specialist cider apples.

Cider making in Devon dates back to at least the 13th century and until about 100 years ago, almost every farm in Devon would have its own orchard and make its own cider. The rural labouring population drank a lot of cider and labourer's wages were even part paid in this drink, sometimes as much as one-fifth of their total income!  As well as everyday vessels for pouring and drinking cider, North Devon potters developed harvest jugs and puzzle jugs to aid the celebrations at harvest time.

Bideford-based potter Nick Juniper's work forms part of the exhibition. Inspired by the traditional North Devon slipware and sgraffito techniques of  the 17th and 18th centuries, Nick creates decorative harvest jugs, puzzle jugs, cider sets, goblets and tankards, all of which are on display for sale. Nick'Juniper's work is the highlight of the exhibition and it's lovely to see old techniques being used today to keep the local tradition alive.

If you love cider and you want to see or purchase the work of a truly gifted potter then you'll love our latest exhibition...so don't miss it!