Kieran Mullan MP has visited Redlands Farm in Robertsbridge to learn more about the importance of hop growing in the local area and the vital link between Sussex family farms and the county's historic brewing industry.
During the visit, Dr Mullan toured the farm's hop gardens and met with farm owner Andrew Hoad to hear about the challenges involved in producing hops, one of the UK's most specialised and delicate crops. He learned about the expertise required to manage the crop throughout the season, as well as the impact that weather, pests and rising costs can have on production.
Kieran also heard about Redlands Farm's investment in modern harvesting equipment and visited the farm's specially built hop drying barn, where hops are processed following harvest before being supplied to Harvey’s Brewery.
Joining the visit were joint Managing Directors of Harvey’s Brewery - Miles Jenner, Head Brewer and Hamish Elder, who discussed the enduring relationship between local hop growers and Harvey's, the family-owned Sussex brewery that has been brewing in Lewes since 1790.
The visit highlighted both the heritage and the challenges of a sector that has seen significant change over recent decades. The UK's hop-growing area has fallen dramatically from around 8,200 hectares in the early 1960s to approximately 1,000 hectares today, while there are now only around 50 British hop growers remaining. Around half of British hop production is concentrated in the South East, including Sussex, helping to preserve an agricultural tradition that has shaped the local landscape for generations.
Dr Mullan also heard how British growers are adapting to changing consumer tastes and strengthening the sustainability of production through investment and innovation. The British hop industry now produces more than 30 commercially grown British hop varieties, supporting both traditional ales and modern brewing styles.
The group concluded their visit at the Salehurst Halt pub where Harvey's Best Bitter is proudly served. They also discussed Harvey's long-standing commitment to low-alcohol brewing. The brewery's award-winning low-alcohol Best Bitter continues a tradition of producing low-alcohol beers that stretches back more than 40 years.
Speaking after the visit, Kieran Mullan MP said:
It was fascinating to visit Redlands Farm and see for myself the skill, hard work and investment that go into growing hops. This is a crop that has been part of the character and heritage of our area for generations, but one which faces significant challenges.
Learning about the farm's investment in harvesting and drying facilities demonstrated the commitment local businesses are making to ensure hop growing remains viable for the future.
It was also invaluable to hear directly from Miles Jenner and Hamish Elder about the importance of the relationship between local hop growers and Harvey's Brewery. Supporting local family farms, local manufacturers and local pubs helps sustain jobs, rural communities and a proud Sussex tradition."
Miles Jenner, Head Brewer and Joint Managing Director of Harvey's Brewery, said:
The quality of our beers begins with the quality of the ingredients we use, and local hop growers play a crucial role in producing the distinctive character of Harvey's ales.
As a family-owned brewery, we greatly value our relationships with family farms such as Redlands Farm. These partnerships are built over many years and help us maintain both quality and provenance in our beers.
It was a pleasure to show Kieran how closely connected local agriculture and brewing remain, and why it is so important that these traditional industries continue to thrive."
