Luton Orchards
Researching the past to secure the future of orchards in Luton
Help us research the history of orchards in Luton, survey their present condition and publish the results. This audit of the past and present will help us understand Luton's fruit-growing history for the benefit of nature and people.
Unknown apple in Farr's Orchard
Help us find Luton's lost orchards
Comparing historical maps with satellite images of today, we found 34 locations that look like they could still have fruit trees today. Do you live near one? Could you walk past and check (no trespassing, please!). View the locations to get started.
Bide-A-While orchard, Luton
Orchard surveyors wanted
Join one of our survey days and help us map, survey and tag the orchard trees of Luton. Your work will help us understand the condition of our orchards, so we can work out what's needed to help them thrive. Dates will be announced in spring 2024 on our events page, but you can register your interest now.
Historic OS map showing the orchard symbol
Share your orchard memories and stories
Do you have memories of orchards in Luton or even elsewhere? We'd love to hear from you. Your knowledge will help us unearth the fruit-growing stories of Luton and better understand the town's history.
Pruning in progress
Orchard gardeners wanted
Your orchard needs you! Orchards are farmed environments as well as natural ecosystems. Establishing trees is hard. Orchards need careful intervention:
staking/protection against rabbits/dogs and vandalism
weeding and mulching
watering young trees during dry spells
new plantings to ensure the habitat survives
formative, maintenance and restorative pruning
No matter whether you have the skills already or would like to learn, all you need is a love of orchards!
Veteran fruit tree
What's so good about orchards?
There are many reasons why orchards are fantastic. Apart from treating us to tasty fruit, they make great habitats for wildlife and are magical spaces to enjoy.
Apples for the amnesty
Luton Orchards Apple Juice
Our first batch of Luton Orchards Apple Juice is ready! Tree owners across the town donated their surplus fruit. A perfect gift, not just for Christmas.