It seems a long time ago now – but today we’re remembering this event, held in the depths of chilly January.  The centuries-old Pagan tradition of Wassailing involves singing in the apple orchards, to charm the trees and the spirits into providing a good harvest.

Over the last few years, we’ve established a tradition for a Halstow Wassail in conjunction with artists and academics – a celebration of the folklore and science behind the creation of cider.  

It’s all happened thanks to a collaboration between us and the University of Exeter’s Arts & Culture department, the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), a group of filmmakers, photographers and musicians, and the Exeter Food Network.

We’ve opened our doors to the orchards, whilst folk singer/songwriter Jim Causley has penned our very own Halstow wassailing song, all filmed as part of a project on microbial life – without which, cider could not be made.

Today marks the opening of the resulting exhibition at the RAMM and the premiere of the wassailing film “Here’s to Thee” by Bevis Bowden at The Phoenix Arts Centre in Exeter and we’re proud to see Halstow Farm at the centre of the celebrations.
Find out more about the project here and drop into the RAMM over the next few months to see the exhibition for yourself.