Cider expert Gabe Cook — AKA The Ciderologist — has launched a crowdfunding campaign for his new venture: Cider Safari.
He is seeking to raise £20,000 to finance the purchase of a vehicle that is central to Cider Safari’s key experiences, authentic small-group tours of cider makers within Herefordshire.
Cider Safari seeks to bring to life the heritage, story, and personality of Herefordshire cider through a series of unique, quality experiences. In addition to the flagship one-day, guided Cider Safari, visiting three ciders makers, there will also be a timetable of walking tours and cider-making experiences in 2027. Both private and corporate tastings will be available.
“It is entirely fitting, and with intention, that I have launched my crowdfunding appeal for Cider Safari on 21st October, as this is National Apple Day,” said Cook. “Herefordshire makes more cider than anywhere else in the world and it has a heritage dating back 1,000 years. It is precisely this authentic heritage and quality that people are seeking to form the backdrop to fun and informative experiences.
Visit Herefordshire has just secured five more years of funding to continue its work promoting tourism within the county. Over the past five years, Herefordshire’s visitor economy has grown from £470 million to a record £830 million, now supporting almost 8,000 jobs and delivering 24.6% of the county’s economy.
With visitor numbers and visitor spend on the rise in the county, Cook is convinced that Cider Safari has the opportunity to ensure cider is at the heart of any visitor experience to Herefordshire.
“We have many great producers undertaking tours and tastings in the county, but there is currently a lack of experiences which enable visitors to understand the full breadth of stories, styles and tastes.
“This crowdfunding will enable me to turn this concept into reality. I ask for curious drinkers, the cider community, and the broader drinks industry to support me in any way they can!”
