If you’re a fan of cider, roaring fires, and good old-fashioned English customs, look no further than Curry Rivel, Somerset, in early January. This picturesque village is home to not one, but two charming winter traditions: the Wassail, a cider-filled celebration to bless apple orchards, and the Ashen Faggot, an ancient Yule log custom steeped in warmth, community, and a dash of mischief.
Whether you’re here for the folklore, the festivities, or just the chance to drink cider by a crackling fire, Curry Rivel promises a time-travel getaway full of quintessential English charm.
What Is the Wassail?
The Wassail (pronounced WAH-sail) is an ancient custom that blesses apple orchards for a fruitful harvest in the coming year. Rooted in pagan traditions and later adopted by Christian practices, wassailing typically involves villagers singing, dancing, and pouring cider over the roots of apple trees to appease the spirits of the orchard.
In Curry Rivel, the wassail takes on a lively, communal atmosphere with music, poetry, and plenty of cider-fuelled cheer. Expect to hear the traditional wassailing song, with its rousing refrain:
“Wassail, wassail, all over the town,
Our toast it is white, and our ale it is brown!”
At the heart of the ritual is the wassail queen, who leads the group into the orchard, carrying cider to bless the trees and ward off evil spirits. There’s also the matter of “waking up” the apple trees—this is achieved with a cacophony of banging pots, pans, and even the odd musket shot. Subtlety is not the goal here.
What Is the Ashen Faggot?
The Ashen Faggot, another beloved West Country tradition, involves burning a large bundle of ash wood bound with green willow. The faggot is ceremonially placed in the hearth, and as it burns, each binding is said to represent a wish or blessing for the year ahead.
Traditionally, the Ashen Faggot is brought into the room with great fanfare—often accompanied by singing, toasts, and general revelry. As the bindings crackle and break, the crowd cheers, drinks, and shares in the good luck being released into the air.
In Curry Rivel, the Ashen Faggot celebration usually takes place in a pub or village hall, ensuring plenty of warmth, laughter, and cider to go around. It’s a chance for the community to come together, share stories, and keep ancient customs alive.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Orchard Revelry
Start your visit by joining the wassailers as they venture into the local orchards. Armed with cider, toast, and noisemakers, you’ll be part of a raucous procession dedicated to ensuring a bountiful apple harvest. Sing along to the traditional songs, sip the cider, and marvel at the mix of pagan roots and modern cheer.
Day 2: Ashen Faggot Firelight
Spend your evening by the hearth for the Ashen Faggot celebration. Watch as the massive bundle of ash wood is brought in, accompanied by the enthusiastic singing of wassail songs. Raise a toast to the new year, and share in the warmth—both from the fire and the convivial spirit of the room.
Travel Tips for Curry Rivel in January
- Layer Up: January in Somerset can be frosty. Bring a good coat, sturdy boots, and maybe a flask of cider to keep the cold at bay.
- Bring Your Voice: Wassailing is a participatory affair, so don’t be shy—belt out the songs with gusto (the cider will help).
- Embrace the Rustic: The Ashen Faggot and Wassail are community events, so be ready to mingle with locals and embrace the countryside charm.
Why These Traditions Matter
Both the Wassail and Ashen Faggot are more than just quaint customs—they’re living links to England’s rural heritage. These celebrations reflect the deep connection between communities and the land, highlighting the importance of agriculture, tradition, and togetherness.
In a world increasingly removed from its agrarian roots, the Curry Rivel Wassail and Ashen Faggot stand as vibrant reminders of the joy found in simple, shared rituals.
Want to Know More?
Books
- Wassail! In Mazes and Labyrinths by John E. Vigar. An exploration of wassailing’s roots and its connection to rural English culture.
- Old Somerset Customs and Folklore by Ruth Tongue. A detailed account of traditions like the Ashen Faggot in the West Country.
Articles
- “The History of Wassailing: From Pagan Roots to Pub Songs” in Folklore Quarterly.
- “Ashen Faggot: The Fiery Heart of West Country Christmases” in History Today.
Web Resources
- Somerset Archives: www.somersetarchives.co.uk – Explore more about local traditions and their historical context.
- Historic UK: www.historic-uk.com – A treasure trove of English customs and traditions.
The Final Word
Curry Rivel’s Wassail and Ashen Faggot celebrations are proof that even the coldest nights can be warmed by tradition, community, and a generous helping of cider. Whether you’re raising a toast to the apple trees, cheering as the Ashen Faggot’s bindings crackle, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this time-travel destination offers an unforgettable mix of history and revelry.
So, pack your warmest clothes, ready your singing voice, and get ready to experience a slice of Somerset’s past. Just don’t forget to save a wish for yourself as the Ashen Faggot burns bright.
Have you wassailed or witnessed an Ashen Faggot celebration? Share your tales with us—we promise to toast to your stories with a hearty “Wassail!”
