Thatchers Cider at The Black Bull: A Refreshing Favourite with Real Character

A Taste of the West Country in the Heart of Ayrshire
At The Black Bull, we believe every drink we serve should tell a story—and Thatchers Cider delivers one full of heritage, flavour, and craftsmanship. Though hailing from Somerset, this celebrated English cider has earned its place behind our bar and in the hearts of our regulars. From the first sip, it’s easy to see why.

Crafted with Care Since 1904
Thatchers is no ordinary cider. Established in 1904, this family-run business has spent over a century perfecting their craft. Using apples grown in their own orchards in Somerset, they blend traditional techniques with modern innovation to create a cider that’s both consistent and characterful. Whether you prefer a crisp, dry finish or something a little sweeter, Thatchers has a pour to suit every palate.

A Customer Favourite at The Black Bull
Walk into The Black Bull on a sunny afternoon and you’re likely to see a pint of Thatchers Gold in more than a few hands. It’s the perfect refreshment after a countryside walk or to accompany one of our hearty pub meals. Light, balanced, and not overly fizzy, it pairs beautifully with dishes like our ploughman’s lunch, fish and chips, or a summer salad.

Why We Love Stocking Thatchers
As a pub rooted in tradition but always looking forward, we’re proud to stock brands that reflect that same philosophy. Thatchers ticks all the boxes—family values, quality ingredients, and a deep respect for heritage. Plus, their range is versatile, appealing to both seasoned cider drinkers and those new to the world of apples and effervescence.

A Cider for All Seasons
While often associated with warm-weather sipping, Thatchers Cider isn’t just for summer. It’s a year-round drink. In colder months, its full-bodied character offers a refreshing contrast to rich, comforting dishes. In the sunshine, it’s simply unbeatable as a cool, crisp refresher. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a food pairing, it’s always welcome at The Black Bull.

Flavour Profiles Worth Exploring
Though Thatchers Gold is the most popular variant, there’s a whole world of cider under the Thatchers name. The Haze offers a cloudier, more fruit-forward option. Katy delivers a single-variety experience with real orchard personality. And for those looking for something alcohol-free, Thatchers Zero offers all the taste with none of the alcohol. Ask our team what’s on tap or in the fridge—we love helping guests discover new favourites.

Perfect Pairings from Our Menu
Pairing cider with food is a subtle art, and Thatchers lends itself beautifully to several menu items at The Black Bull. Try it with our pork belly dish to enhance its natural sweetness. Or enjoy a chilled pint alongside our charcuterie board for a more continental twist. The crisp acidity of the cider cuts through fatty or salty foods, refreshing your palate with every sip.

Sustainable and Community-Minded Brewing
Thatchers doesn’t just make great cider—they do it responsibly. The company is committed to sustainable farming, biodiversity, and reducing environmental impact. For us at The Black Bull, that’s important. We strive to work with producers who care about their communities and their craft as much as we do.

Join Us for a Pint of Thatchers
Whether you’re popping in for a casual lunch, stopping off after a scenic walk, or looking for the perfect end to your day, there’s always a good reason to try Thatchers at The Black Bull. Crisp, refreshing, and unmistakably crafted with care, it’s the kind of drink that keeps you coming back.

Conclusion
Thatchers Cider isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience. And at The Black Bull in Tarbolton, we’re proud to serve it as part of our carefully curated bar offering. So next time you're in, raise a glass to great cider, great company, and a pub that knows how to make both feel right at home.

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