Incentive itinerary: A taste of Somerset food and drink

The Somerset countryside is home to a fine array of food and drink producers – from household names crafting the county’s signature cider and cheese, to lesser-known gems. Many of these open up their doors to visitors, making for unforgettable foodie incentive experiences. 

Here’s a recommended one-day itinerary that gives you a taste of the region’s homegrown delights, all set against the backdrop of the scenic Mendip Hills. Along the way, meet regenerative farmers, winemakers and cider masters, before sitting down to dinner at a fiercely local country restaurant. 

Morning

Meeting the residents at Yeo Valley Organic

Get hands-on at Yeo Valley Organic farm 

Take a trip to the real farm behind the yoghurts, cream, cheese and other dairy delights often spotted on British supermarket shelves. Based in the picturesque village of Blagdon, Yeo Valley welcomes visitors to learn about their organic, regenerative practices. 

The team will show you around the farm before you roll up your sleeves for some practical activities, like foraging in the fields or painting using natural materials collected on site. Alternatively, pick up some tips during a cookery demo starring Yeo Valley Organic products, of course. 

Finally, it’s time to eat. Lunch is served in the HQ canteen, where everything is prepared using homegrown and seasonal ingredients.  

Afternoon 

A pint of Thatchers Cider

Visit the home of Thatchers Cider

Thatchers Cider is one of the country’s leading cider makers and a staple behind the bar in British pubs. They’ve been producing the West Country’s favourite beverage at Myrtle Farm for 115 years, so it’s the perfect place to learn about the craft. During a two-hour tour, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look into the heart of this mega cider-making operation, finishing up with a tasting of a few ciders. 

Somerset winery Aldwick Estate 

Sample award-winning wines at Aldwick Estate 

Perhaps less well known compared to its cider-making heritage is the South West’s excellent selection of wineries. But after a visit to Aldwick Estate, you’ll soon be a connoisseur in this respect. A tour will introduce you to the workings of this tranquil vineyard, its history and aspirations, as well as the English viticulture scene more broadly. 

After learning all about the grapes and processes behind Aldwick’s fine vintages, you’ll be well prepped for sampling a selection in the follow-up tasting session. 

Evening  

The restaurant at The PIG-near Bath, credit Jake Eastham

Dine hyper-local style at The PIG–near Bath 

A love of all things local comes together on the menu at The PIG-near Bath, a relaxed country house hotel and restaurant with a green-hearted ethos. Many ingredients are handpicked from their very own Kitchen Garden, with the rest sourced from within a strict 25-mile radius, so a real taste of Somerset is guaranteed on every plate. 

With the day’s eating and drinking done, The PIG’s homely yet luxurious bedrooms await. Each one is uniquely furnished with old furniture, paintings, vintage fabrics and reclaimed wood. 

Let us plan the perfect food and drink itinerary for your incentive trip to Bristol, Bath or the surrounding countryside. Get in touch to discuss your exact tastes and requirements.