to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
About
Apple enthusiasts, rejoice! Houghton Lodge Gardens' popular Apple Day is back for another year of fruitful festivities on Sunday 28th September 2025 from 11am to 4pm.
Nestled in the picturesque Test Valley, Hampshire, the gardens will transform into an apple-lover's paradise, offering a delightful blend of education, entertainment and tradition. 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.
Expert Horticulture & Apple Identification:
- Renowned horticulturist Chris Bird, M.Hort (RHS) and Sparsholt College team providing fruit tree pruning and growing advice
- Apple identification service – bring your own apples to discover if they're cookers or eaters Learn about historic apple varieties and their heritage
- Cider Craft & Tastings - Hydes Cider offering samples and bottle sales
- Educational talks at 11am and 2pm about the cider-making process
- "Field-to-glass" insights into local craft cider production Family Entertainment
- Apple Trail – mystery adventure for children to find the stolen golden apple
- Michael O'Leary storytelling featuring folktales and the mythical "Apple Tree Man"
- Red Stags Morris dancers performing at 12:00pm and 2:30pm in the walled garden Traditional Activities
- Open wassail ceremony – toast apple trees with Houghton Lodge apple juice
- Participate in the ancient ritual of chanting and making noise to ensure good harvests Garden Exploration
- Wander through gardens featuring 32+ apple tree varieties
- View the world record-holding Champion espaliered pear tree 'Beurre Diel' (53ft 11in) - Explore the ongoing Fluvii Sculpture Exhibition (until 30th September)
- Food & Refreshments
- The Glass House tearoom serving apple-themed treats and drinks
- Special drinks menu including Houghton Garden Gin Spritz Entry to tearoom and to talk to Sparsholt College experts is free; normal garden entry prices apply
Opening Times
Sorry, this event has passed
