Ode to the Orchard

17 Sept

After all, an apple a day keeps the doctor away.

You can feel it in the air can’t you? The crisp air, the morning light barely peeking through, and the slight coolness in the breeze. The shedding of leaves upon the ground, we are entering our autumnal season, no denying it now.

Last year, I discovered pick your own apple farms, but regrettably, I discovered it a month too late, and I missed the window for crunchy, ripe apples. The UK boasts 2,500 different types of apples, which is mind boggling. Sadly, the traditional orchards are on the decline, but thanks to community orchards, British heritage apples are being preserved. Without hesitation, I made sure that this year, I would take the opportunity to pick my own.

Castle Farm Kent is a family run farm, owned by the Alexanders, and based in West Kent. Five generations of Alexanders have farmed. They are now the largest lavender farm in the UK as well, growing over 130 acres of the popular purple flower. Tucked away, through winding country lanes, you finally reach the farm, overlooking a magnificent valley. The lavender bushes were not in bloom, but it was still an incredibly impressive view.

For those similar to me, who have never picked apples before, the process is fairly simple. You bring a bag or cute woven basket and select your choice. Castle Farm had the selection of Cox and Norfolk apples to choose from. The Snow White ruby red apples (the Norfolk ones) were the clear favourite! Rows and rows of trees lined up before you and you can take your pick. It’s a really fun day for the family or friends.

Sometimes you want to escape away and do something pretty wholesome. You’re left to your own devices, where you can pick as much as you like. The staff were friendly and very supportive.

Castle Farm Kent isn’t extensive or overly embellished. There’s no pretence, what you see is what you get. Some places you can visit that are more style over substance, but this well-run family farming business keeps it simple, with no airs or graces.

I totally lost track of time and spent all morning there! Once I purchased my goodie, I took one last look over the lavender valley. For those wanting to spend longer, there are paths surrounding the farm that you can freely roam. But with coffee in hand, I was ready for the journey home.

A truly beautiful way to really kick off the autumn season. I loved discovering these new actives that will become traditions I embark on yearly. One day, I’ll visit with my own family and let the kids run through the orchard, baskets in-hand. Delicious, ripe apples, ready for biting into immediately.