1820
The present-day orchard was once part of the extensive estate lands of George Cubitt, Member of Parliament and the 1st Baron Ashcombe, owner of Denbies House.
1939 – 1945
During World War II, this area was transformed into allotments to support food production.
1976
Mole Valley District Council purchased the land, including the orchard, allotments, and the BMX track.
1999 – 2000
The area was planted as Millennium Woodland. Unfortunately, it was not maintained, and soon became overrun with brambles and scrub.
2009
The Dorking Community Orchard project began, launching an extensive clearance of brambles and a new wave of fruit tree planting. Apple trees—primarily local Surrey varieties—were the first to be planted.
(Nick has fascinating photos of the early scrub clearance; we might include some of these.)
2011
As part of the redevelopment of Dorking’s Waitrose, an ancient mulberry tree was carefully relocated from the car park to the Orchard. Though struggling, it continues to bear fruit. (Check with Bill or Nick on the 2011 date; we also have historic photos from Dorking Museum showing the tree at its former location.)
2011 – 2019
Further tree planting continued with a focus on propagating local varieties. This process involved grafting buds from existing trees onto bare rootstocks, which are then grown in a nursery area for one to two years before being planted out.
2020
The orchard is now fully stocked with around 200 fruit trees, including mostly apples, alongside damsons, pears, hazels, and the mulberry tree.
Today
We continue to care for the orchard through pruning and weeding. Apples are primarily sold via the Food Float in Dorking High Street, allowing the community to enjoy the fruit while supporting the orchard’s upkeep. We also gather from other local orchards, pressing their fruits into juice, which we sell at local events.
Our focus on supporting wildlife has grown, with initiatives like phased mowing of the meadow between the trees, building woodpiles for insect habitats, and installing bird boxes. The orchard has become a vibrant community space, attracting visitors who enjoy its beauty and biodiversity.
Come and visit us, or join us at one of our events!