Hops are the heart of Instone – a map of 1890 shows hops being grown here where they have continued until the present day.

Along with the traditional varieties of Golding we are part of a national breeding programme trialling a range of exciting new options with great flavours. Simon is currently the chairman of the British Hops Association which is forging the way with these new cultivars.

In addition to brewing, hops have been traditionally used in decoration –they look fabulous strewn across beams or doorways for the welcoming country feel and are perfect for autumn weddings.

Simon and his father Barry took part in filming of Herefordshire Life Through A Lens: Stories from a hop yard which is soon to be airing in theatres across the county – we can’t wait to see it and hear all the fascinating stories of times gone by. In addition to this Simon shared his thoughts and experiences of hop growing as part of a BBC4 programme back in 2013.

We grow a range of varieties of hops, each unique in brewing characteristics. Our hops are marketed world wide through Charles Faram and Co Ltd.  Ernest has proved a big hit with brewers, Ledbury Real Ales and The Hop Shed have both used it for speciality brews with excellent feedback. We even have our very own Instone hop which has been a big hit in the Swan breweries Mortimers Ale, give it a try we are sure you'll love it!