News / Bristol Food Network
Unique chance to explore Bristol’s allotments, orchards and community gardens
Bristol’s first fully wheelchair-accessible dementia-friendly allotment is among the highlights of a unique event showcasing the city’s secret gardens, growing spots and more.
From apple pressing to permaculture tips, the Get Growing Garden Trail offers people an opportunity to explore the sites producing food right on their doorstep and learn more about nature in an urban environment and the benefits it brings.
Now in its ninth year, the event organised by Bristol Food Network returns for a harvest-themed weekend on September 18 and 19 that will see 22 of the city’s farms, gardens and smallholdings open their gates to the public.
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There has been a rise in grassroots growing projects since the start of the pandemic and the event – back following the cancellation of the 2020 trail – will seek to highlight the way in which growing has improved the physical and mental wellbeing of many in the city.
“Some of us have got really green fingers, some of us less so, but we’re all learning all the time from each other,” says Jeff from Bridge Farm, a new addition to the trail for 2021.
“The sense of wellbeing and self-empowerment you get from growing food, you cannot beat it.”
As in previous years, gardens on the trail will be highlighting their nature-friendly growing methods and approaches with a wealth of tips, ideas and insights for visitors to take back and share at their own plot, garden or window box.
With increasing numbers on allotment waiting lists, trail organisers say getting involved in community growing offers another way for people to flex their green fingers and to learn in a supportive and friendly environment.
22 gardens and growing spaces are opening their gates as part of the Get Growing Garden Trail 2021 – photo by Alex Moody
As well as garden tours, this year’s trail includes seed sowing, games for children, apple juice-making, the opportunity to pick up some new plants and fresh produce, lunch and snack stops, wildlife-friendly gardening tips – and Bristol’s first fully wheelchair-accessible dementia-friendly allotment in Brentry.
Full details of all 22 garden openings can be found via www.bristolfoodnetwork.org and trail maps are available across the city.
Main photo by Jane Stevenson
Read more: The rise of grassroots growing projects in Bristol
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