An Apple a Day Kept Britain Going

About this episode

This episode explores the historical significance of cider in Britain and its cultural evolution.

Cider once mattered as much as beer or wine — so how did it lose its place in British life? In this episode of Intoxicating History , Henry Jeffreys and Tom Parker Bowles explore the overlooked history of apples, orchards and a drink that quietly fuelled the countryside for centuries. We’re joined by James Crowden , whose deep knowledge of rural England helps us trace how cider shifted from everyday necessity to cultural afterthought. Along the way, we uncover how monks, farmers, class, labour and tax policy shaped cider’s fortunes, and why industrialisation changed the way Britain drank. This isn’t nostalgia. It’s a story about land, work and identity, and why today’s cider revival is about reclaiming flavour, craft and connection rather than novelty. Thoughtful, funny and gently persuasive, this episode makes the case for cider as one of Britain’s most important — and misunderstood — historic drinks. As ever, we’re supported by Wylde Market have another wonderful box to unpack Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Henry Jeffreys, Tom Parker Bowles

Guest: James Crowden

Topics covered

• cider
• British history
• apples
• cultural identity
• industrialisation
• rural England

Keywords

• cider
• British history
• apples
• orchards
• industrialisation
• cultural identity
• rural England

Sponsors

Wylde Market