The Incline Orchard is part of the Incline Orchard and Gardens, situated near the Verne on Portland, Dorset. It’s a small orchard, with some mature trees and some that were planted in 2017. It has several varieties of apple such as Tom Putt, Star of Devon, Ashmead’s Kernal and Melcombe Russet. It is run on organic principles. Various members of the community have led the development of the orchard over the years and this year Tammy Arundel has kindly stepped in as orchard leader. Tammy was involved back when the site was first developed as an orchard and gardens and as she lives very close by is well placed to keep an eye on things.
The orchard has been generously supported by Transition Towns Weymouth and Portland with advice, insurance, fund raising to pay for tools and training and by a gift of several apple trees.
There are regular working parties to keep the orchard thriving. We have events such as Easter egg hunts and apple pressings which have resulted in some delicious cider and apple juice. Each January we mark the old tradition of wassailing, gathering around the trees to wish them a healthy and productive year.
If you are interested in getting involved in the care of the orchard, please email InclineOrchardPortland@gmail.com
Jackie Burgoyne, April 2019
Transition Town Weymouth and Portland 