The Cider Shed - Ploughing through BBC's 'The Archers'

Imagine the warm and cozy feeling of your favourite sweater but this time it’s a podcast called The Cider Shed. The hosts Matthew Weir and Keri Warbis (& an off mic Peter Fickling) have created one of the best podcasts that will make you want to curl up and drink in every minute of their podcast. From Matthew’s brilliant faux ads, to Keri’s perceptive insights you don’t need to be a fan of the Archers to enjoy their creative efforts. The hosts are genuinely two of the loveliest people and it’s a pleasure to feel included as a listener each week as they unpack the Ambridge shenanigans with humour and love, as true fans themselves. Nothing beats the silly game shows that Matthew puts Keri through or her inadvertently hilarious answers. Their friendship is what pulls listeners back week after week and that they share it with us is lovely. Discussing the Archers has never been more fun!

Archers chat made by people who I would actually like to hang out with! Keri, Matthew, and sometimes Peter, not only hit on all the hot goss in Ambridge, they do so with a genuine warmth and wit that envelopes listeners in an affable bubble. Thanks for the pod, y’all!

This is a long overdue review of the cider shed. For many years, I have listened to the archers alone with no one to discuss it with or commiserate over this weird show. I have now listened to every single episode both the regular show and the midweek specials on patreon. I now feel like I have two snarky, witty, funny, sarcastic friends in Kerri and Matthew (though I may need to examine the nature of this parasocial relationship). You must have a sense of humor to enjoy this show. If you are easily offended, this is probably not the podcast for you. I don’t agree with all the takes from Matthew and Kerri (like the rather strange obsession with Russ, a character that I find disgusting and creepy). However, it’s ok, we don’t have to agree about everything all the time, that would be boring. Thank you for your excellent work Kerri and Matthew (miss you Peter!)

I wrote a review when this podcast started but it is time to update because it continues to be amazing. The presenters make wry observations and predictions about all the goings on in Ambridge. And yet, while they can be merciless when discussing Archers’ ridiculousness, they are warm and generous to Archers’ listeners. So listen, enjoy, and give them 5 stars (and then support them via Patreon)!