Chapel Orchard is a historic orchard at the heart of Orwell village. It is located towards the top of Town Green Road, just north of the Methodist Chapel. The 2.2 acre site is 134m on the longest axis north-south, and 95m at its widest point east-west.
Its chalk stream is an important and rare feature. It belongs to South Cambridgeshire District Council but has been leased to Orwell Parish Council since 2005. Since then, it has been actively managed and maintained by volunteers. It has become a much used and much-loved green space. It is an early adopter of rewilding practices, so that now at least 50% of the area is predominantly a wildlife zone dominated by elder, bramble and ivy, which is providing dense cover for a variety of wildlife.
A new 5-year management plan was drawn up in 2023, which sets out how we plan to continue to manage this important and beautiful village gem. In August 2023, we carried out a plant survey.
Volunteers regularly organise working parties, both at weekends and during the week, to maintain the orchard. New volunteers are always welcome. No experience necessary.
Please contact Steven Thain for more information or to receive emails when working parties are taking place.
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