Bignose & Beardy (Sussex cider from waste apples)

Big Nose & Beardy turns waste apples in Sussex into a refreshing cider, that’s also vegan-friendly. The solar-powered brewery produces crisp ciders with strong floral notes, with everything fermented slowly for great taste.

For cans, always pop the ring-pulls back over the can, to stop wildlife getting trapped, before recycling. Never buy brands wrapped in plastic (these trap wildlife). If you see littered ones, rip up the holes and securely bin.

This brand was started by two men who both had good jobs in London, and decided to move to the Sussex countryside. There the ‘out of control hobby’ of making cider has now become a successful business. They’ve even bought a local orchard, to help store local food in the community.

You can buy mixed packs and taster gifts, and even big boxes of cider with taps (ideal for parties and weddings, once popped, the cider lasts for a few weeks) and mulling kits.

Most of the apples come from around Sussex, and locals are often paid for what would otherwise rot on the ground. Bignose & Beardy supports apple growers and garden owners, bringing new income into the area.