The Orchard Project
Bringing historic orchards back to life
We are incredibly fortunate to have access to two very old orchards in the south of Worcestershire. Each offers a mix of apple and pears with Deer Orchard having the most surviving ancient trees and a special focus on several unique perry pears. Hill Orchard is more compact and has had many apple trees replanted over the last twenty years.
Worcestershire, now known for its fruit production, had pears placed on the coat of arms by Queen Elizabeth I after a royal visit. Impressed by the famous Black Worcester pear, she ensured the county would forever be synonymous with pear and perry production. We hope to fulfil our role as the next custodians of this rich history.
Deer Orchard
Where old meets new
Appearing in the ordnance survey six inch first edition, the Deer Orchard still has thriving trees from well before the time of the survey, many well over 200 years old. In recent time more apple trees have been planted in the gaps left by the fallen.
Named, for now, after its perennial visitors to the orchard. Deer and muntjac are a common sight along with much other wonderful wildlife such as red kites.
Hill Orchard
Relics revitalized
The best view in the house. Sitting a top a hill, breathtaking views towards Bredon Hill can be viewed all year round.
A familiar story to Deer Orchard, here a small number of relic perry pear trees have withstood the test of time and are surrounded by much younger apple trees planted 15 years ago.