Bustardthorpe Allotment Association is a self managed site based on the outskirts of York next to the racecourse and currently has 295 plots and 302 members. The original site was set up in 1908.


Bustardthorpe Allotments was successful in its application to the Charities Commission to become a registered charity in January 2025 and as a result was re-named Bustardthorpe Allotments Association Charitable Incorporated Organisation (BAACIO).

About BAACIO

Our charitable status is based on environmental objectives providing a natural space for local residents, many of whom do not have access to open spaces where they live.


There are between 5 and 11 trustees all of whom are volunteers.


Please click here to read BAACIO's Objects and Constitution.

Bustardthorpe's history

Osbert Bustard is farming land northeast of Middlethorpe Manor.

Sir Miles Wilstrop of Tockwith acquires Bustardthorpe Manor.

Bustard Hall and nearby fields purchased by York City Council and leased out as agricultural land.

Bishopthorpe Rd and South Bank residents petitioned the city council for provision of allotments and formed the South Bank Allotment Holders Association.

Relocation of the North Field plots to the existing location to make space for car parking at the racecourse.

Bustardthorpe became a self-managed site independent of York City Council.

Bustardthorpe Allotments Association became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation

Read more here - History and Further Reading.