Mapledurham's Orchard

As part of the national campaign led by the National Trust and Natural England to protect existing and establish new orchards, an orchard has been planted at Mapledurham Playing Fields. Traditional orchards have long been regarded as havens for wildlife providing important habitat for native birds and insects, but in recent years many have been lost often to housing developments.

The Playing Fields which are owned by a charity and held in trust by Reading Borough Council, were chosen as the best location because the site is large enough to absorb the new orchard without compromising its current uses whilst enhancing its interest. It was also felt that the trees were less likely to be vandalised here than at other sites considered.