Beetham Nurseries has announced the return of its Apple Weekend this month.
Taking place on Saturday October 11 and Sunday October 12, the free family-friendly event celebrates the nation’s favourite fruit and has become one of the most popular dates in Beetham Nurseries’ calendar.
The weekend promises a packed programme of activities, from fruit tree sales and apple tastings to live music, children’s crafts, food and drink, and a bustling farmers’ market featuring some of Cumbria’s finest artisan producers.
Apples & fruit trees
- Fruit trees for sale – With over 40 varieties of apple and fruit trees available, visitors can browse and buy throughout the weekend. Garden Club members will receive 10% off all fruit trees. Free Beetham Nurseries Fruit Tree Care Guides will also be available.
- Cumbrian loose apples – Rare and unusual apple varieties, including many grown by Cumbria Wildlife Trust, will be available to sample at the tasting table and purchase by the bag.
- Fruit press – Visitors are encouraged to bring their own apples and containers to have fresh juice pressed on site. Donations will go to Beetham’s charity partner, Growing Well.
- Apple identification – On Sunday October 12, apple expert Andy Gilchrist will be on hand to identify varieties brought in by visitors and answer apple-related questions.
- Apple Weekend talk – Paul Cambre, head of horticulture at Growing Well, will deliver a talk covering apple growing techniques, pruning, rootstocks, and advice for growing at home on Sunday at 11am. Tickets are required.
- Apple tree giveaway – Guests will also have the chance to enter an in-store competition to win their very own apple tree.
Family fun
- Children’s crafting – On Saturday, from 11am to 1.30pm, Bob Sutcliffe OBE will lead a free crafting session where children can make 3D watercolour paper apples.
- Fairy hunt – Young visitors can take part in a magical fairy door hunt across the garden centre and growing nursery, with the chance to win a £25 Beetham Nurseries voucher.
- Colouring competition – Colouring sheets provided by Cumbria Wildlife Trust will be available in the Garden Cafe, with prizes to be won.
- Live music – Local musicians will perform on the terrace across the weekend, with the full line-up to be announced in advance on Beetham’s social channels.
Food & drink
- Fruit-themed menu – The Garden Cafe will feature a special seasonal menu inspired by apples and other fruits.
- Farmers’ market – A showcase of regional produce, with stalls from Kendal Farmers Market, and Growing Well.
- Beetham’s Food Court – Street food from a vintage horse box and food truck will be served on the terrace, alongside baked goods and apple crumble from Baked by Beetham.
Additional attractions
- KingSharp – At the entrance to Beetham Nurseries, KingSharp will be available throughout the weekend (from 10am to 4pm) to sharpen knives, tools and more.
Apple Weekend 2025 promises a weekend full of learning, discovery, and fun for all ages.
With something for everyone to enjoy – from expert advice and rare apple tastings to children’s activities and local delicacies – it is set to be a highlight of the autumn season.
Dates: Saturday October 11 and Sunday October 12
Location: Beetham Nurseries, Beetham, Cumbria
For more information, visit www.beethamnurseries.co.uk
