Tours of the Ampleforth Abbey Orchard
The Ampleforth monks tend the famous Abbey Orchard which has more than 40 varieties of apples. Orchard produce includes the much sought-after Ampleforth Abbey Cider and Cider Brandy available in the Abbey Shop.
Visitors are kindly requested to check with Lettings before visiting the orchard by telephoning 01439 766085 or contact by email
Group tours can also be arranged by contacting Nicola or Gillian in the Lettings team. Further details are available on the Cider Mill page here
Orchard Produce
Apples have been produced at Ampleforth for well over one hundred years and monks still provide the workforce for what is England's northernmost commercial orchard. The present orchard covers more than 2 hectares with some 2,000 trees and more than 40 varieties of apples, including Ribston Pippin, the oldest variety grown at Ampleforth and orginating from a tree grown locally at Ribston Hall in the 17th century. Other varieties include Ashmead's Kernal, Vista Bella and Beauty of Bath.
Ampleforth Abbey Cider
Cameron Smith makes this famous cider on site from our own orchard's apples in the traditional way. The result is a strong (8.3%), dry cider, where the final phase of fermentation often takes place in the bottle, making it quite lively! It is best served well chilled.
The orchard is looked after by Cameron Smith and has featured on many local media outlets as well as on UKTV Food. Some of the apples are sold to visitors and others go to make juice and the increasingly popular Ampleforth Cider and Ampleforth Cider Brandy. Local people can also bring their own apples to the cider mill to be juiced.
Our Sloe Gin, Damson Gin , Elderberry Gin and Cider Brandy can be bought online here . All products including the Ampleforth Amber Liquor are for sale from the Abbey Shop and our Tea Room.
Our cider is also available for sale from a number of outlets around the county: