Celebrating 50 Years of Woughton on the Green Community Orchard
Published: 13/01/2026
Located in Woughton on the Green lies one of Milton Keynes hidden treasures: The Community Orchard. Planted in 1976 by the Milton Keynes Development Corporation, the creators of Milton Keynes, this orchard is the largest of its kind in the city. Today, it thrives under the care of The Parks Trust and dedicated volunteers from the Mid Shires Orchard Group.
When Milton Keynes was first developed, part of the plan was for residents to be able to enjoy fresh fruit straight from their gardens. Fruit trees were planted in housing developments, vouchers were offered to residents to grow their own, and orchards like this one were established for public enjoyment. It is believed that if all of the orchards in Milton Keynes were joined together, the city would be home to one of the largest orchards in Britain!
The Woughton on the Green Orchard is home to 19 native varieties of apple trees, producing fruit that is free for anyone to take. The only rule? To respect the trees. Climbing on them can cause damage and the apples fall when they’re ready, so the best way to forage is collecting them from the ground.
You can find helpful guidance on apple picking on our website.
A Golden Anniversary
This year marks a special milestone—the orchard’s 50th anniversary and to celebrate, a series of golden community events are being organised:
Wassail Ceremony – Saturday 24 January. Kick off the celebrations with a traditional blessing of the orchard. Expect traditional celebrations, colourful decorations and plenty of noise!
Spring Picnic – Saturday 9 May. Relax under the blossom-filled branches, enjoy a picnic, and take part in themed activities and games.
Summer Picnic – Saturday 25 July. A sunny day of food, fun, and community spirit, with local charities joining in to share their work.
Apple Day – Saturday 17 October. The grand finale! Our ever-popular celebration of everything apple—tasting, games and tours.
Stories of the Past
Before the orchard was planted, the land belonged to Cottage Farm, built in the 19th century. Its history is filled with charming tales, including “Patch,” the beloved Shire horse who worked the land. Patch’s name lives on today in the neighbouring allotments, a reminder of the site’s local heritage.
As part of the anniversary, we are keen to collect more stories and memories of the orchard. These anecdotes will help weave together the orchard’s past and present, continuing it legacy for future generations.
Whether you’re joining the Wassail, spreading out a picnic blanket, or baking a delicious apple pie, you’re part of a living tradition that has thrived for half a century. Details of all these jubilee events can be found on our events pages. We hope to see you there!
For more information about activities and how to get involved in caring for the orchard at Woughton on the Green, you can contact the Mid Shire Orchard Group Facebook page.
