APPLES AND PYO ORCHARD

NORFOLK ROYALS

Few people have heard of the Norfolk Royal apple and indeed, as far as we know, Castle Farm is the only commercial grower of this rare and beautiful variety. (It is one of the few apple trees that will grow happily on the chalky soils of the North Downs.) Ripening in early September, the apple is a distinctive bright red
and develops a natural waxy skin as it matures. Sweet, juicy and full of flavour, it is best eaten fresh from the tree (or as early in the season as possible). When cooked is has a soft consistency like Bramleys – but much, much sweeter.

We supply a few boxes of apples to markets around the country in September, but it’s not the sort of apple that you will find in a supermarket because it bruises easily and won’t withstand rough handling.

COX APPLES

For keeping and storing, you need to buy our traditional Cox apples which are grown on alternate rows in the same orchard. Small and flavoursome, they are ideal for lunchboxes or as children’s snacks.

PICK YOUR OWN

To sample the true delight of a Norfolk Royal, visit our pretty little Pick Your Own orchard from mid-September to mid-October when you will also find our cox apples, local Bramleys, pears and the Kent Cob hazel nuts – a seasonal speciality.

See our Events Diary for the apple-picking season or sign up to our e-newsletter to be kept informed of orchard opening dates and times.

APPLE JUICE

Castle Farm’s unique apple juice balances the sweet taste of Norfolk Royals with the fresh sharpness of Kentish Bramleys to produce a refreshing drink, especially good when chilled.
Available only from the shop and a few selected retailers.

For a summer party drink, try our APPLE LAVINI apple and lavender combination - half a glass of chilled apple juice, half a glass of chilled sparkling wine and a single drop of Cold Lavender Essence on top.

And for a warming winter drink, try our MULLED APPLE AND GINGER PUNCH recipe:
Heat 1 litre of apple juice with 125ml of ginger wine, add a small stick of cinnamon, a few cloves, a pinch of nutmeg and lemon juice. Simmer gently for 15 minutes. It’s a great non-alcoholic drink for Christmas parties.

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