Sandford Orchards
The Cider Works, Commonmarsh Lane, Crediton, EX17 1HJ
Member Overview
CIDER DONE RIGHT since 2002. Award‑Winning Devon Cider Crafted with Precision in the Blackdown Hills
Sandford Orchards is a leading independent cider maker based in Crediton, Mid Devon, producing exceptional ciders that combine heritage apple varieties, modern cidermaking expertise and a strong commitment to sustainability. Founded in 2002, Sandford Orchards has built a national reputation for quality, innovation and championing the true character of Devon cider.
From Traditional Roots to Modern Excellence
Sandford Orchards was established by Barny Butterfield with the aim of elevating traditional West Country cider by applying the same care, control and craftsmanship associated with fine winemaking. While firmly rooted in Devon’s cider heritage, the business embraces modern techniques to produce clean, balanced and expressive ciders.
The cidery sits within the Blackdown Hills, an area well suited to cider apple growing, and works closely with orchards across Devon and Somerset.
Heritage Apples & Carefully Crafted Ciders
Sandford Orchards specialises in cider made from traditional cider apple varieties, including:
- Dabinett
- Yarlington Mill
- Tremlett’s Bitter
- Kingston Black
Apples are sourced from trusted growers and estate orchards, pressed at optimum ripeness and fermented with precision to highlight fruit character, tannin structure and balance.
A Distinctive Cider Range
The Sandford Orchards portfolio includes:
- Devon Red – rich, rounded and gently bittersweet
- Devon Dry – crisp, structured and food‑friendly
- Devon Scrumpy – traditional, still farmhouse cider
- Vintage & Single Variety Ciders – limited releases showcasing specific harvests
- Session and contemporary styles, designed for modern palates
The cidery also produces small‑batch special releases, allowing experimentation while maintaining its core standards of quality.
One of the UK’s Most Decorated Cider Makers
Sandford Orchards is widely regarded as one of the most awarded cider producers in the UK, with accolades including:
- UK Champion Cider Maker (multiple years)
- Supreme Champion Cider – Devon County Show
- Gold Awards at the British Cider Championships
- Food Drink Devon Gold Awards
These awards reflect both consistency and leadership within the British cider industry.
Sustainability & Environmental Leadership
Environmental responsibility is central to Sandford Orchards’ operation. Initiatives include:
- Investment in energy‑efficient cidermaking equipment
- Support for traditional orchard management and biodiversity
- Long‑term relationships with local growers
- Commitment to minimal intervention and natural fermentation
The business is a vocal advocate for the future of British cider apples and traditional orchards.
Cidery Shop, Tastings & Experiences
Sandford Orchards welcomes visitors to its Cidery Shop in Crediton, offering:
- Tastings of the full cider range
- Bottles, bag‑in‑box and gift packs
- Knowledgeable staff and guided advice
The cidery also hosts cider tastings, talks and events, helping to educate consumers about cider styles, apples and food pairing. Look out for announcements on their socials about these special events.
Trade, Retail & National Reach
Sandford Orchards supplies:
- Independent retailers and farm shops
- Pubs, restaurants and bars across the UK
- National wholesalers and export markets
Despite its scale and reach, the business remains proudly independent and Devon‑based.
Producers | Cider Makers | Award‑Winning Drinks | Sustainable Producers | Mid Devon | Sandford Orchards | Devon cider | award‑winning cider UK | traditional cider apples | Mid Devon cidery
Producers | Cider Makers | Award‑Winning Drinks | Sustainable Producers | Mid Devon | Sandford Orchards | Devon cider | award‑winning cider UK | traditional cider apples | Mid Devon cidery
Where to find us