Somerset Cider Brandy Company

The Somerset Cider Brandy Company sits just outside Langport, where they've been distilling proper West Country firewater since 1989. You'll find a small working distillery that takes cider - the region's most famous export - and transforms it into something altogether more serious. The place itself is functional rather than fancy. What you get is a proper behind-the-scenes look at how they age and blend their spirits, and if you're lucky, a taste or two at the end. It's not a massive visitor attraction with theme park energy. You're looking at maybe an hour, possibly less if you're not particularly into the production side of things. The real draw is understanding how cider becomes brandy, and the chance to buy bottles you won't find anywhere else. Ring ahead first though - opening hours aren't guaranteed, and they operate on a smaller scale than some of the bigger Somerset attractions. History types and anyone serious about cider will get far more from a visit than casual drinkers. The company's approach is old-fashioned and unrushed, which is either exactly what you want or a bit slow depending on your mood. If you're staying at Thorney Lakes or 5 Acres on the Somerset Levels - both within a few miles - this makes a decent hour-long excursion. The surrounding area is flat and agricultural; you're here for the distillery itself, not the scenery.