National Fruit Collection

National Fruit Collection

See the National Fruit Collection which houses nearly 3,500 varieties of fruit in over 150 acres of farmland.

Date/Time: Thursday, 18th September 2025 at 11:15

Location: Brogdale Collections, Brogdale Farm, Brogdale Road, Ospringe, Faversham, ME13 8XZ

Price: £20 per person. Member and guest £40.

Event Organiser: Harvey Schonfeld. 4 Rosslea, Windlesham GU20 6PS

Brogdale Collections charity provides access to, and education about, the National Fruit Collection. Set in over 150 acres of beautiful Kent farmland, the National Fruit Collection, one of the largest collections of fruit trees in the world, holds over 3,000 varieties of apples, pears, quince, plums, cherries, grapes and nuts. The Collections intriguing orchards are a living history and heritage of amazing fruit and have been based at Brogdale Farm for over 70 years.

The purpose of the Collections is to act as a ‘gene bank’ conserving the biodiversity of fruit, while providing a valuable and unique source of plant material for propagation, research, and breeding. They offer a fascinating living reference library of ‘heritage’ fruit varieties from all over the world.

The trip includes a one hour tractor tour of the orchards (perfect for those who may struggle with a longer walk) with a running commentary from one of the guides.

We will also enjoy a delicious cream tea (included in the ticket price) after the tractor tour.

Information About Your Visit

Accessibility
Most of the site is accessible to all. Wheelchairs are suitable on the guided tours and there is an allocated wheelchair space on the tractor trailer. Two off road mobility chairs (not motorised) can be hired to use on the route. These should be booked in advance.
Food and Drink
There is an on-site cafe open Tuesdays-Sundays from 10:00-16:00.
Parking
There is a large, on-site car park

Why Not Add an Overnight Stay?

The previous day we are going to visit Leeds Castle, so you can see the castle with us then stay overnight for the visit to the collection.

There are several hotels in the area. You may like to consider:

  • The Judds Folly Hotel just outside Faversham. The IBM Preferred Rate (email Harvey for the discount code) for a small double room is currently £80.19 incl VAT – cancellable at no charge until 4pm on the day (Std Rate is £99).
  • The Premier Inn at Faversham. The price for a std double room is currently £108 incl VAT – cancellable at no charge until 1pm on the day (or £74 non-refundable).

Note: The rates quoted above are as at 31st July. They are subject to change without notice.

Please make your own hotel reservation.

Event Booking

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Brogdale Fruit Collection

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Booking Details

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