THE tradition of apple growing and cider making is celebrated during Cotehele's apple weekend on Saturday, September 15 and 16.

From 11am to 4pm each day, visitors will be able to learn more about the many varieties of apples growing in the Tamar Valley.

During apple weekend visitors will be able to sip freshly-pressed apple juice, taste and compare different apples, savour delicious apple-based food and enjoy orchard tours. There will be fruit presses and crushers for sale, a children's apple-themed trail, tours, tastings and a cookery demonstration.

 The highlight of the weekend will be putting the restored Victorian cider press to work making traditional cider. The gardening team will 'build the cheese' and explain the process; then, at 3.30pm each afternoon, there will be a 'big squeeze' to press the cider.

The Cornwall Beekeepers' Association will also be on hand; as will the Tamar Dowsers who will give a talk each day at 1.30pm.

Cotehele's old orchard dates back three centuries and is home to a diverse range of local varieties including the elegant Cornish Aromatic, small pickling apples known as Sweet Larks, the juicy Pig Snout and the sweet Lady's Fingers.

Normal admission charges apply.