Community Orchard

Welcome to Lauriston Farm Community Orchard, established in 2023. The orchard trees are near the Community Allotments, in the open access area. They are being very well cared for by a group of local volunteers – who explain more below…

  • Three smiling volunteers work together to make a wood and wire cage around an orchard tree. Collie dog and farm fields behind.
  • Wintery scene of trees in orchard, with closest one in a large handmade protective wooden and wire enclosure, and in the background more in tall wire enclosures

A Word from the Community Orchard Group

We are a dedicated team of volunteer fruit tree guardians. Since the start of 2023, we have been set on a mission to create a productive and beautiful natural environment for people to gather together and learn how to plant and cultivate different varieties of fruit trees. We hope our orchard will provide delicious, fresh fruit for all the community to enjoy.

As well as being a focal point for community activities, our orchard promotes the health benefits of fresh produce and outdoor activities for people of all ages and skills. Our activities include tree pruning, weeding, mulching, installing tree protection guards and other tasks in anticipation of future autumn picking sessions and apple days.

Click here to see a record of what has been planted

Look out for the sign at the farm, which gives more information about the fruit varieties, uses and best picking times.

Environmental Benefits of Orchards

Orchards are havens for biodiversity, offering food and shelter to a wide range of wildlife species and a source of nectar for pollinating insects including bees, hoverflies and butterflies.

The trees’ ability to reduce pollution, mitigate stormwater runoff, take up carbon dioxide, produce oxygen and reduce soil erosion can all help mitigate climate change.

We hope that members of the local community will be able to enjoy the fruit for many years to come.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in volunteering, you can join the drop-in community garden volunteering sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons (click here to see dates and times on the calendar). These often include Community Orchard care, as well as the other community growing projects.

Also look out for special orchard events like the Wassailing – find out about all upcoming  events by signing up to our newsletter