Celebrating the Kentish Harvest

With the soft-fruit season winding down, Dallaway Cherries in Northiam are now focused on crafting their delightful range of fruit liqueurs. Their collection of Vodka, Gin, and Whiskey, infused with homegrown fruits, captures the essence of summer, offering you a taste of sunshine all year round.

September heralds the start of the top-fruit harvest, and cider makers like Charrington’s Drinks in Matfield are busy in the orchards as different apple varieties ripen. Their single-variety ciders and juices highlight the unique flavour profiles of each apple—whether it’s the warm, baked apple notes of the Egremont Russet or the crisp, refreshing tang of the Cox.

Elsewhere in Kent, the hop harvest is in full swing. Some of these freshly picked hops will soon be transformed into Kent Green Hop Beer, available throughout the Green Hop Beer season, which runs from late September through October. McCanns Brewery, based at Hukins Hops in Tenterden, will soon release their 4% blonde, green hop ale, "Wake Me Up in September." A visit to their taproom promises a sensory experience, with the harvest unfolding around you.

Although Kent’s vineyards are still awaiting their grape harvest, excitement is building for what promises to be another excellent yield. In addition to the county’s award-winning wines, vineyards here are finding innovative ways to make use of their crops. Pelegrims Skincare, for example, partners with local wineries to craft luxurious skincare products using grape must and vine leaves—by-products of the winemaking process. These ingredients, rich in antioxidants and beneficial compounds, make Pelegrims’ range not only effective but also sustainable.

Across Kent, many restaurants are showcasing the abundance of local produce in their seasonal menus. Victuals Restaurant in Deal proudly features 18 Kent wines on its menu, while the multi-award-winning Boys Hall, near Ashford, offers a farm-to-table experience with locally sourced Romney Marsh lamb, venison, fresh produce from nearby market gardens, and wines from Kent vineyards. They even stock Pelegrims toiletries, reinforcing their commitment to celebrating local excellence.

Kent’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and traditions, with each grower, producer, and establishment contributing to the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. The next time you’re in the Garden of England, take the opportunity to savour these local treasures and immerse yourself in the unique tastes of Kent.

To plan your trip around the county this Autumn, head to the Discover section of the Produced in Kent website to find places to visit near you. Our Sustainability guide will help you make the most of any season that you choose to explore the county, and the Visit Kent website will help you find out what else is happening during your visit. Leave the car at home and hop on a Southeastern train for the most sustainable and relaxing way to enjoy your journey.