The Nature Reserve which includes part of the site-wide community orchard is situated in the bottom corner of the site closest to Bishopthorpe. 

There is a low area which when the conditions are wet enough becomes a wildlife pond. If this is the case, the entrance gate is locked, but the key can be booked out at the shop. This is for safety reasons, and at such times please be aware of the deep water hazard particularly with accompanying children and vulnerable adults.

The community orchard is available for plotholders to harvest, but you are asked not to be greedy and leave enough for other human visitors and for nature. Please be aware of the potential wasp hazard.

You are asked:

• To be responsible for the safety of yourself and anyone accompanying you, especially children and vulnerable adults.
• To be conscious of the hazards, ie, the uneven ground, the area that is normally a pond, wasps, etc.
• That you and whomever is with you respects this area of tranquillity and calm as reserved for nature. It is not a playground.
• That you leave the gate closed. Yes, we know that it is particularly tricky at the moment and are currently working on a solution.
• Please don't take too much - leave fruit for others and nature.

If you would like to get involved with the maintenance and management of this special area please get in touch.