The Plots
We have over 40 separate plots in our allotments, set over a gently sloping, south-facing bank. Most are relatively level, with tiered banks taking out the worst slopes between levels. Good, grassed paths connect the various plots, with main paths accessible by vehicle in the main growing season when weather conditions permit.
Soil quality is generally good, and varies from sandier soils at the top plots to heavier soils at the foot. The water table is not far below the lowest plots, making the lower plots ideal for thirsty crops.
2 seasonal plots are available for a shorter growing season and are usually given over for growing produce for the local community.
Info about number of plots, size, layout etc...
Soil quality is generally good, and varies from sandier soils at the top plots to heavier soils at the foot. The water table is not far below the lowest plots, making the lower plots ideal for thirsty crops.
2 seasonal plots are available for a shorter growing season and are usually given over for growing produce for the local community.
Info about number of plots, size, layout etc...
The "Big Shed"
The "Big Shed" serves as the main meeting place for the society, and is generally open at weekends and some evenings during the growing season, while committee members are on site. It provides a useful sheltered, dry space when the weather is inclement and has basic tea & coffee making facilities and seating available. It is also used for society events and our annual show.
The Orchard
A well stocked and growing orchard can be found at the foot of our site, with a wide selection of apple, pear, cherry & plum trees producing delicious, fresh fruit in season. While some trees were planted by specific members, others were planted by the society for more communal use. We ask that members or visitors picking fruit in the orchard to be mindful to share equitably, and not strip the trees bare! We encourage all to use "windfalls" first before picking other fruit direct from the trees.
In the coming years, the society intends to plant "edible hedgerows" around our perimeter (and possibly elsewhere in the village) to enable all passing our boundary to share in fresh fruit and nuts direct from the hedges.
We will also be moving away from the current mowed field around the orchard's trees and progressively converting it to a wildflower meadow with paths, with the aim of attracting pollinators and other wildlife.
In the coming years, the society intends to plant "edible hedgerows" around our perimeter (and possibly elsewhere in the village) to enable all passing our boundary to share in fresh fruit and nuts direct from the hedges.
We will also be moving away from the current mowed field around the orchard's trees and progressively converting it to a wildflower meadow with paths, with the aim of attracting pollinators and other wildlife.
The Pond
One of the most loved parts of our allotment site is the pond at the lower end of the site. Created a few years ago and maintained by society member, the pond is teeming with wildlife, with frogs, toads & newts amongst others and the occasional visits from families of ducks, the odd heron and other birds.
The Picnic Area
We also have a small picnic area with picnic bench available - a great place to sit and relax on sunny days while taking a break from the digging, planting and weeding!