This 0.7 acre (0.3 ha) traditional orchard is situated in Kemerton village. It has very old origins and contains a number of heritage fruit tree varieties. Originally owned by the Daffurn family, the orchard was purchased by KCT in 2000 using funds generously donated by local people. The orchard is managed by KCT with the help of local volunteers Kemerton Orchard Workers (KOW) for the benefit of both wildlife and the public.
Flora and Fauna
The orchard contains old apple varieties, such as the rare Joeby crab (a cider apple), and Worcester Pearmain, a local speciality. One ancient Barland pear (a perry pear) also survives. Mistletoe is found in abundance in the old trees. The grassland is home to a mass of spring flowers including snowdrops, primroses, daffodils and bluebells. Boxes have been provided for bats to roost in, while beehives brought in by a local beekeeper assist with the pollination of fruit blossom.
A tree map designed by KOW member Steve Fletcher showing the fruit tree varieties can be found as a pdf file here.
A species list of all flora and fauna recorded on site can be found as a pdf file here.
Access Information
OS grid reference: SO 9478 3774. Postcode: GL20 7JN.
Daffurn’s Orchard is open to the public all year round. Access is via a gate on Hill Road, Kemerton, opposite ‘Westholme’. We regret that in order to avoid disturbance to wildlife, dogs are not permitted in the orchard. Picnics are permitted, please take any litter away with you.
The best times to visit Daffurn’s Orchard are in spring when the fruit trees are in blossom, and autumn when they are laden with fruit. |
