Blackmoor Apple Tasting 2023

The Blackmoor estate turned into a pomaceous paradise last Sunday as it played host to the annual Blackmoor Apple Tasting Day, drawing a staggering crowd of almost 4,000 core-ious attendees.
The orchard extravaganza has promised a day of free fruity fun for apple aficionados of all ages for some 50 years, and the highlight was, once again, the apple tasting itself.
Attendees sank their teeth into a variety of juicy specimens straight from the boughs of Blackmoor’s finest trees. From cabaret’s crisp bite to the cameo’s sweet symphony, and the tang of a James Grieve, visitors were able to try a host of varieties not seen on your average supermarket shelf.
And for those brae-burning to know what that apple growing in their garden is, apple experts were on hand to identify mystery pommes. Pumpkins, fruit and apple trees were also available to buy.
And for those looking to sip and savour, the refreshment tent offered Blackmoor Orchards’ very own apple and cherry ciders, juices and perry – while Bowmans also brought along some real ales for those more inclined to hops.
Horse and cart rides trotted in, have-a-go bell ringing sessions were led by Alton & Petersfield District Bellringers, Alton Morris got everyone jingling and banging sticks, and a climbing wall elevated the excitement to new heights.
Furry and scaly friends made appearances too, as farm animals and reptiles took centre stage – including a selection of heathland critters courtesy of Amphibian and Reptile Conservation.
Phoenix Arts led storytelling sessions, a food hall tempted visitors with a wide array of local produce and a rural crafts barn was abuzz with creativity.
The local Scouts troupe also ran a barbecue, toffee apples were sold in aid of Blackmoor Village Hall and other stalls offered the chance to win everything from a bag of logs to a wheelbarrow of booze.