brewing
Traditionally grown in the counties of Kent and Hereford, brewers prefer UK hops as our farmers usually grow seeded varieties that are best suited for real ale or “beer” – lager beers use a different seedless hop grown in other countries in Europe.
It is the hops that add the bitterness and aroma to beer.
To buy loose dried hops to add to your brew click here
below are some interesting comments passed down through the hop picking generations
the information in this page should not be used for any other purpose except out of interest!
medicinal
In the past, hops have been used for medicinal purposes. Tinctures were created using hops that were supposed to help reduce painful swelling, bruises and boils. Compresses that would reduce neuralgia & rheumatic pains. Various tonics that would purify the blood, reduce nervousness, hysteria and insomnia, as well as stimulate a sluggish liver and stimulate the appetite. Hops are still used today, as hop pillows upon which the incumbent should lay their head. This is still a method today that is used to improve insomnia, but is said to also help with diseases of the chest & throat.
culinary
Hop shoots, that emerge from the plant in April/May are a culinary delicacy - prepared like asparagus, they are served with seasoning and butter.