The orchard is now fully productive with a varied age structure, fringed by woodland on two sides and a good wildlife hedge on the others, providing an amazing refuge for wildlife. We run work groups at many of our orchards, where volunteers care for the trees through pruning, weeding, mulching, guarding and re-planting where required. They are then rewarded with lovely apple juice and cider! We’ve also planted trees which have been propagated through our National Trust Conservation Centre, focussing on some of the older trees in our orchards which will soon be in decline and in time varieties that may have been lost. By planting this next generation of trees, we are safeguarding the diversity of specieis that are in our care.
Near Combe Martin is an apple orchard tucked behind a historic 15th-century small Manor – West Challacombe. Wander around the orchard with apple trees ranging from ten years old to circa 80 years old and enjoy the peaceful views around you. Come in the spring or summer to see the blossoms. Feel free to try some fruit, but please leave some for the wildlife.