Townsend Community Orchard

A parcel of land at Townsend was handed over to the Parish Council as part of a Section 106 agreement when the extension of Mallard Croft was built. After consultation with local residents it was decided to plant an Orchard and in 2015 Townsend Community Orchard was established.

This has been very much a community project and could not have been successful without a number of amazing volunteers and generous donations who helped initiate this scheme. In conjunction with the Parish Council, they have worked tirelessly to establish this facility. The Orchard was planted with a variety of apple and pear fruit trees and soft fruit bushes. Though still immature as an Orchard, it nevertheless provides a small crop for the parishioners to enjoy. Further improvements to the Orchard have included a small seating area which has been very popular for outdoor gatherings. This modest, natural amphitheatre has hosted outside church services, easter egg hunts, plays, and is regularly used by the junior schools as well as local guide and scout groups.

The Community Orchard is open 24/7, feel free to use it whenever you wish. Remember that if you wish to use the Community Orchard, please remain quiet while entering and leaving the area as the entrances are next to residential streets.

Map of Community Orchard Entrances

Townsend Community Orchard: Where to Find Fruit, When to Pick and How to Use

Information Board

Become a Volunteer!

The orchard is supported by a friendly and dedicated team of volunteers who look after the grounds on behalf of the village. We are always happy to welcome new members who would like to give something back to the community. No previous orchard experience is needed—just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved.

There are a range of roles available, depending on whether you prefer practical work or lighter, less physical tasks. Between March and December, monthly work parties are held to help maintain the trees and keep the orchard tidy. Typical activities include weeding, pruning, clearing paths, mowing, and spreading compost or woodchips. These sessions are usually held on Saturday mornings between approximately 9:30am and 11:30am.

Some volunteers take part in a mowing rota during the spring and summer, helping to maintain the footpaths. This usually involves around one visit per month and takes approximately two hours.

For those who prefer less physical tasks, there is also a rota of “orchard watchers”. These volunteers visit the orchard once or twice a month to carry out basic checks, such as monitoring for damage or vandalism, litter picking, and cleaning signage.

Volunteers can also support the orchard by helping at community events. This may include advertising, running stalls or refreshments, and general stewarding. Around four events are held each year, such as Easter egg hunts, summer picnics, children’s activities, autumn gatherings, and the winter wassail.

There is also the opportunity to join the orchard’s steering committee. This is a sub-committee of the Parish Council, made up of local residents and a parish councillor. The committee meets roughly every two months and oversees the orchard’s development, infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance.

If any of these opportunities are of interest, please contact the orchard committee at communityorchard.haddenham@gmail.com or the Parish Council at office@haddenham-bucks-pc.gov.uk. A member of the committee would be happy to discuss volunteering with you or arrange to meet you at the orchard.

You can also visit the Townsend Community Orchard Facebook page for updates and event information.

2026 Work Party and Event Dates