SERC Worklink students visit Long Meadow Apple Cider

As part of their NVQ Catering and Hospitality course, SERC Worklink students from the Lisburn campus recently visited the family owned Long Meadow Apple Cider orchard in Armagh to experience first-hand their ‘Plant to Pour’ concept. 

The award-winning Long Meadow Apple Cider was established in 2013 and is a run by the McKeever family. The orchard in The Long Meadow covers 12 acres and has been owned by the McKeever family for three generations where they have been known locally for the quality of their Bramley apples.

Long Meadow Apple Cider produce three main types of cider. The largest sellers are Medium and Blossom Burst, with the more limited volumes of Oak Aged Cider that are press appealing to a more discerning customer.

During their visit students enjoyed a guided orchard walk with owner Pat McKeever who educated the students about the famous Armagh Bramley apple and how it was awarded protected status back in 2012 and how each generation has passed on different methods and traditions to the next; in order to grow and produce the perfect apples on their home farm.

Students were also treated to a visit to the cold storage facility where apples can be stored from harvest season in September straight through to June the following year.

Finally, the students got the opportunity to see the pressing and blending facilities and of course the opportunity to sample some craft apple juice.

SERC Associate Lecturer from the School of Hospitality, Management, Tourism and Languages Gillian Copeland said “All of the students had a wonderful time and received an education about the apple cider industry here in Northern Ireland. I thank the McKeever family for their custom and wish them all the very best for generations to come."