Cider is having a huge moment in the UK. From craft blends to traditional brews, cider has made its way back into the hands of thirsty Brits—and it’s not slowing down in 2024. As more people look for refreshing alternatives to beer, the cider market is booming with new flavors, local makers, and premium options.
With so many available now, it’s tough to know which ones are truly worth buying. That’s why we’ve pulled together this detailed UK cider ranking list. It’s based on sales, customer reviews, and quality to find the top rated UK ciders 2024 fans love most.
Whether you like your cider dry, sweet, cloudy, or in a can, there’s one here for every kind of cider drinker.
Why UK Ciders Are So Popular in 2024
The UK has always had a strong cider culture, but the interest has exploded over the last few years. Here are a few reasons why the cider craze keeps growing:
- Increased demand for local and craft drinks: People love knowing where their cider comes from.
- More flavor choices: From berries to spices to traditional dry cider, there’s more on offer than ever.
- Lower alcohol options: Many choose cider over beer for a lighter choice.
- Vegan and gluten-free appeal: Many ciders are naturally vegan and gluten-free, which meets modern dietary needs.
According to the industry group British Cider Alliance, cider made up about 45% of the total fruit-based drinks market in the UK in 2023. This trend continues strong into 2024 with new players and old favorites battling for space on shop shelves and in pub taps.
Top Rated UK Ciders 2024: Our Ranking
We looked at expert reviews, online ratings, and 2024 sales to create this UK cider ranking list. These are the best British cider brands that drinkers across the country are reaching for the most.
1. Thatchers Gold Cider
- Type: Medium dry
- Alcohol: 4.8%
- Origin: Somerset
Thatchers Gold remains a crowd favorite in 2024. This cider blends traditional bittersweet apples with a smooth and mellow finish. It’s available everywhere, from supermarkets to pubs, and continues to score well on taste and value.
Why it ranks high:
- Widely available
- Consistent taste
- Balanced flavor for all palates
2. Kopparberg Mixed Fruit Cider
- Type: Sweet fruit cider
- Alcohol: 4.0%
- Origin: Sweden (Yes— but top-selling in the UK)
This one breaks a few rules by not being British, but Kopparberg’s popularity can’t be denied. With sweet berry flavor, this option is perfect for those new to cider or those looking for a drink that feels like a treat.
Why it’s loved:
- Fruity and sweet
- Low alcohol
- Great for casual drinkers
3. Aspall Premier Cru
- Type: Dry cider
- Alcohol: 6.8%
- Origin: Suffolk
Aspall is considered one of the best British cider brands when it comes to premium quality. The Premier Cru version is dry with a touch of sparkle, making it a solid choice for wine lovers switching to cider.
Why it ranks:
- Crisp and elegant
- Highly rated by cider critics
- Ideal for food pairings
4. Westons Vintage Cider
- Type: Medium dry
- Alcohol: 8.2%
- Origin: Herefordshire
A strong yet smooth cider made with apples harvested only once a year. It’s full-bodied and aged in oak vats for extra depth.
What makes it stand out:
- High proof for a cider
- Complex layers of flavor
- Aged for luxury taste
5. Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime
- Type: Fruit-infused cider
- Alcohol: 4.0%
- Origin: Sweden (but again, massively loved in the UK)
Perfect for summer, this one’s popular thanks to its fruity and refreshing taste. Despite being Swedish, it remains one of the most loved ciders in the UK.
Key benefits:
- Pairs well with ice
- Great mixers for cocktails
- Available widely
Most Loved Ciders in the UK by Region (2024 Data)
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular cider brands in the UK based on regional sales and preferences:
| Region | Top Cider Brand | Type |
|---|---|---|
| London | Thatchers Gold | Medium Dry |
| Manchester | Rekorderlig Strawberry Lime | Sweet Fruit |
| Birmingham | Kopparberg Mixed Fruit | Sweet Fruit |
| Bristol | Westons Vintage | Medium Dry |
| Leeds | Aspall Premier Cru | Dry |
Stats based on 2024 online sales data from off-licence and retail platforms (source).
Best British Cider Brands Gaining Popularity
While old names stay strong, several new or smaller cider makers are rising fast in 2024.
Here’s a short list of fast-growing British cider companies:
- Hawkes Urban Orchard – London’s first urban cidery. Dry and cloudy.
- Crafty Nectar – Offers subscription boxes of craft cider from around the UK.
- Pilton Cider – Makes keeved cider with no added sugar. Great for foodies.
- Little Pomona – Award-winning modern cider with natural ferment.
These brands focus on quality, local sourcing, and natural fermentation methods.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cider
Picking a cider isn’t just about alcohol or price. Here are a few things to ask:
- Dry or sweet? – Dry ciders usually taste stronger and more tart. Sweet ones are fruitier and easier to drink.
- Still or sparkling? – Most UK ciders are fizzy, but a few still ciders offer a wine-like experience.
- ABV (Alcohol by Volume) – If you’re planning a long session, look for something under 5%.
- Award-winning or local? – Some of the most loved ciders in the UK come from small local producers.
Tips: Getting the Most Out of Your Cider
- Serve chilled – Cold cider tastes fresher, especially in hot weather.
- Use glassware – Don’t drink direct from the bottle or can. A glass lets you smell and enjoy the flavors.
- Pair with food – Try dry cider with cheese or roast pork, and fruity cider with desserts.
What’s Next for UK Cider in 2024?
Experts predict low-alcohol craft ciders, fermented apple blends, and seasonal flavor drops will trend all year. Eco-packaging and refillable growlers are also getting more common with eco-conscious buyers.
You can also expect to see more cider tasting events in pubs and festivals, like those held by CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, who are big supporters of real cider and perry.
Final Thoughts on the UK Cider Ranking List 2024
If you’re new to cider or just looking for your next favorite, now is a great time to explore. From local dry styles to fruity party favorites, the UK cider market is more exciting than ever.
Whether you go for a classic like Thatchers Gold, a modern favorite like Kopparberg, or a niche option like Little Pomona, there’s something for everyone in 2024.
✅ Want a smooth and classic cider? Try Thatchers Gold.
✅ Prefer something sweet and packed with flavor? Grab Rekorderlig Strawberry-Lime.
✅ Looking to support small UK brands? Check out Crafty Nectar or Hawkes.
Let us know in the comments: What’s your go-to cider this year?
Share this article with fellow cider lovers—and next time you’re in the shop or at the pub, try something new from this list.