Hartpury University is celebrating the success of its student-led cider, now being served on draft at the Legends Bar and the 4ED Hartpury Stadium.
The cider, crafted using apples grown on Hartpury’s heritage orchard and blended with locally sourced cider apples, is a product of the hands-on efforts of university Agriculture students who have been involved in every step of the process.
As part of the university’s commitment to sustainable resource management and experiential learning, final-year BSc (Hons) Agriculture students took on the challenge of planning, harvesting, pressing, and marketing the cider as part of their “Supply Chain Management” module. The cider project also features in the MSc Sustainable Agriculture curriculum, as part of the “Sustainable Resource Management in the Land-Based Industries” module.
The orchard at Hartpury University boasts an impressive collection of heritage apple varieties – some dating back to the 17th century – serving as a vital gene bank of rare and historic species. Varieties like the Orleans Reinette, alongside cider-specific apples such as Dabinett and Browns sourced from local growers, ensure that the cider is both a sustainable and uniquely local product.
University students involved in the project gain invaluable experience in sustainable agriculture, resource management, and supply chain operations while supporting local businesses and preserving biodiversity.
Stephen Watson, Lecturer at Hartpury University, said: “We are pleased to announce that Hartpury Cider is now available in the Students’ Union bar and at the 4ED Hartpury Stadium. Our award-winning cider, created by our Agriculture students in partnership with a local cider maker, is a truly local and traditionally made product. The project not only gives students experience in the production and marketing of the product, but also helps us to protect our heritage orchard and manage it sustainably for future generations.”
The cider earned recognition by winning a Bronze award at the prestigious Bath and West Cider Championships – an impressive accomplishment for a student-led initiative.
Hartpury Cider is proudly available to enjoy on campus, offering a taste of tradition and sustainability to students, staff, and visitors alike, although everyone is of course reminded to drink responsibly.
