Apple Day at Houghton Lodge Gardens

About

Apple Day is back for another year of fruitful festivities! With over 32 apple tree varieties at Houghton Lodge Gardens, including the world-record-holding espaliered pear tree 'Beurre Diel', Apple Day is a celebration of many ancient varieties that can no longer be found in shops and supermarkets. 

Engage with renowned horticulturist Mr. Chris Bird, M.Hort (RHS) of Sparsholt College, and his team as they share their expertise on apple tree growing, cultivation, pruning, and identification. Bring your mystery apples for expert analysis and learn the true identity of your own garden's harvest.

There will also be the chance to view and taste the many different varieties and participate in an ancient wassail ceremony, toasting the trees in the orchard for a bountiful future harvest.

For young adventurers, a magical Golden Apple lies hidden in the gardens. Uncover the 'Wish Trail' clues hidden within the gardens to find the rarest apple of all-find it and make a wish. Michael O'Leary will return along with his captivating folktales to entertain and delight visitors.

Visitors to Apple Day will also enjoy the vibrant energy of the Red Stags Morris dancers as they perform their unique style of Border Morris dancing. Their colourful costumes and rhythmic beats will create a festive spectacle, inviting you to tap your feet and celebrate the harvest season.

Treat your taste buds to apple-infused delights in The Glass House tearoom along with Houghton Lodge's very own apple juice which will feature in a special drinks menu. As well as these exciting activities, visitors will also be able to wander round the gardens. There's the new Oriental garden, woodland grotto, Long Border, Peacock gardens with its topiary birds and walled kitchen garden, where you will find apples and pears.

Meet friendly alpacas and sheep as you explore the meadows and riverside walk along the famous River Test.   For those seeking a deeper dive into history, exclusive House Tours offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Busk family's 18th-century Cottage Orné. See the beauty of the exquisite rooms, and listen to the stories and history that have been part of this house since it was built in 1793 (Additional tickets required.) Tours are pre-bookable and will take place at 9am, 10am, 11am and 12noon and include entry to the gardens.

Gardens open at 10am and all things apple commence from 11.00 - 4.00pm. Storytelling with Michael will take place between those times. Red Stag Morris will be performing in the walled garden at 12:30pm and 2pm. Enjoy FREE ENTRY to The Glass House tearoom and to speak to Sparsholt College. The normal entry price to the garden applies. Admission tickets can be booked online..

Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate the wonders of the apple harvest. Join us for a day filled with fun, food, and folklore at Houghton Lodge Garden.