East Street Cider

David Aylward and Ellen McManus began Huron County’s first craft cidery in 2016, brewing and bottling in a historic factory on East Street in Goderich that has been in McManus’ family for decades.

East Street Cider began as a manufacturing facility only but David and Ellen knew that someday they wanted to add a taproom, to invite the public into their unique heritage space.

As liquor laws in Ontario evolved, the possibility of that taproom came much closer to reality and in 2020 the company began lovingly restoring a large space in the northwest corner of the building, exposing the walls of cut stone from the Maitland River that had housed generations of craftsmen and entrepreneurs. While that exposed stone and heritage beams give the place character, it also posed unique challenges for David and Ellen, who were doing most of the renovations themselves. Designing a space in a building built in 1856 meant that very little was level or true and, despite existing for over a century and a half, the building continues to settle and shift. All of these quirks had to be accounted for when framing, hanging drywall and pouring floors.

Exposed beams and a defunct sprinkler system adds to the character of the room, reminding patrons of the decades of manufacturing that has taken place within its walls. Even the tables and benches nestled along the walls have been designed and built by the duo to complement the industrial vibe. The space is arranged into conversation areas and cozy nooks, lending itself to a variety of events that are now being held.

In the summer of 2023, East Street Cider hosted a patio so that patrons could enjoy their cider on-site while the renovations continued and finally, in September, the wait was over and the taproom opened for the first time. It was the opportunity to meet the neighbours and welcome the community into their space. Since the fall, events ranging from vinyl nights to the ever-popular bingos are bringing in new faces and familiar regulars alike.

In addition to its own ciders, the taproom boasts a carefully curated selection of regional craft beers and wines, and non-alcoholic drinks, ensuring that everyone who visits can find the perfect beverage.

Aylward is the brewer, developing seasonal flavours of cider with 100 per cent Ontario apples, in addition to their year-round labels like the Landmark Dry, their original and still most popular cider. The company is becoming known for its unique flavours, like the Harvest Botanical which is steeped with botanicals and dried fruit and hints of hibiscus. 

Exclusive to the taproom, East Street Cider is also able to serve up new flavours in super small batches, so drop by often to see what’s new and exciting. The taproom is open Thursday - Saturday from 2 pm to 9 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 6 pm. Follow its social media pages for upcoming events and for extended summer hours. www.eaststreetcider.com 130 East St. Goderich