Staying at Farndish Manor means you are just moments away from one of Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire’s most-loved producers: Saxby’s Cider. This family-run cidery, based at Grange Farm in Farndish, has become known for its handcrafted ciders, orchard-grown apples, and relaxed, welcoming farm experiences that showcase the very best of rural English produce.
For guests, it’s not just a place to have a drink, it’s a full experience, and one that sits practically on your doorstep.
A Working Cider Farm with a Warm Welcome
Saxby’s Cider is made on-site using apples grown in their own orchard and traditional methods, producing a range of crisp, fruit-led ciders with no artificial flavours or syrups.
What makes it special for visitors is that it’s both a working farm and a social space. Depending on the season, you’ll find a lively taproom atmosphere with food, drinks, and events running alongside cider production.
It’s the kind of place where you can drop in for a quick drink or easily spend an entire afternoon.
Events Throughout the Year
Saxby’s runs a varied calendar of events that change with the seasons, often drawing both locals and visitors from across the region.
Typical events include classic car and bike meets with a relaxed farm setting, orchard-based seasonal events such as harvest activities, taproom evenings with food trucks and street food, quiz nights, comedy nights, themed entertainment, and producer fairs or community gatherings.
The atmosphere is always informal and welcoming (think countryside social hub rather than formal venue).
Private Cidery Tours & Tastings
One of the standout experiences for guests is the private cidery tour and tasting.
These bespoke visits usually include a guided walk through the orchard and production area, insight into how Saxby’s ciders are pressed and crafted, a tasting flight of their core and seasonal ciders, and stories about the farm’s history and cider-making process.
It’s a great option for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a deeper look behind the scenes. Whether you’re a cider enthusiast or just curious, the experience is relaxed, informative, and very hands-on.
The Perfect Setting for Private Parties
Saxby’s also offers private hire options, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.
Guests can book the space for birthday celebrations, anniversaries and family gatherings, corporate events or team socials, and informal weddings or pre-wedding get-togethers.
Depending on the package, you can combine exclusive space hire with tours, tastings, and catering from visiting food vendors. The rural setting gives events a distinctive, laid-back character that’s hard to replicate in traditional venues.
Why It’s Worth Visiting from Farndish Manor
For guests staying at Farndish Manor, Saxby’s offers something rare: a genuinely local experience that doesn’t feel manufactured or tourist-driven. Located just across the road, you can find yourself there in less than a minute, tasting cider made just yards from where it’s grown.
It’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon out, a unique group activity during a stay, a memorable celebration close to your accommodation, or simply a taste of authentic local craft produce.
What Our Guests Say About Saxby’s Cider (and Us!)
“We had an amazing stay at the Manor House. Everyone loved the house and spoke to highly of it. It’s so well equipped, beautiful house, and all the guests mentioned how comfortable the beds were. We hired it for our friend hen do and was the perfect space for 14 gals, lots of break out spaces and those who went to bed early, didn’t complain about noise. The gardens and surrounding areas are beautiful, we popped down to saxby’s cider farm and they were so welcoming and friendly. Great pizza. I would 1000% return to stay! Thanks again” Sophia, May 2026
“This manor house in Northamptonshire is in a stunning countryside location with fun things to do within a short walk or drive (we visited Saxby’s cider across the way – highly recommend!). The house was perfectly equipped with everything you could think of for our group of 18 friends. Perfect location for friends meeting up from all over the country. Would 100% stay again. Thank you Lucy” Matthew, April 2026