Ampleforth Abbey

Apples have been produced at Ampleforth for well over one hundred years and monks still provide the workforce for what is England's northernmost commercial orchard. The present orchard covers more than 2 hectares with some 2,000 trees and more than 40 varieties of apples, including Ribston Pippin, the oldest variety grown at Ampleforth and orginating from a tree grown locally at Ribston Hall in the 17th century. Other varieties include Ashmead's Kernal, Vista Bella and Beauty of Bath.

Fr Rainer

The orchard is looked after by Fr Rainer Verborg and has featured in many local media outlets as well as on uktv Food. Some of the apples are sold to visitors and others go to make juice and the increasingly popular Ampleforth Cider and Ampleforth Cider Brandy. Local people can also bring their own apples to the cider mill to be juiced.

The orchards are open to visitors and customers on Mondays and Fridays (2.30 p.m. - 4.00 p.m.) from late July to November. The cider mill is open for juicing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 2.30 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Visitors are kindly requested to check with Fr Rainer before visiting the orchard by telephoning 01439 766899 or contact him by email. Group tours can also be arranged by contacting Fr Rainer. Our Sloe gin, Damson gin and Cider Brandy can be bought online.