Welcome to
Horfield Organic Community Orchard
growing fruit, community, learning, and wellbeing since 1998
Horfield Organic Community Orchard (HOCO) is an inspiring, pioneering, local food project that put down roots 26 years ago on an allotment site behind HMP Bristol. The orchard is home to more than 80 different fruiting trees. It was planned to show that local grown fruit can be eaten and enjoyed all year round.
HOCO is a grassroots example of resilience in a world living with climate chaos. We are adapting the ways we care for our trees to meet serious challenges to food production now, and for the future. Do you care about the future of food growing? Join us as a Friend of the Orchard to support our work. Join us as a Harvest-share member and take action with others on the ground.
Orchard Learning Courses for 2025
Get growing, learning, and active in the orchard this year. We welcome new Harvest-share members who are taking part in an Orchard Learning course at HOCO. New to fruit growing? Keen to learn more about pruning, lively soils, caring for trees in a climate crisis, and making the most of the harvest? There is an Orchard Learning course for you! Find out more: Orchard Learning
“If I knew the world would end tomorrow, I would still plant new apple trees today.”
Fruitful Futures –
a climate resilience action project
Starting Saturday 14 June, 2025
Dates: Saturdays 14 June; 13 September; 8 November; 7 February (2026)
Plus: extra time for research and hands-on sessions – as needed
Times: Co-learning session – 12pm-1.30pm, followed by Orchard Action session – 2.30pm-4.30pm
Design and lay the groundwork to plant and grow new fruit trees in uncertain times. Co-create an experimental, action research project in a community environment. Beginning with questions about: soil; unpredictable and extreme weather patterns; how to share knowledge with future growers. Seeking solutions that are low-tech, low-cost, joyful and diverse.
Bring your hands, head, humour, and heart to this project. Recommended for participants with some previous growing experience, and an open mind, who are keen to take action at the grassroots.
Course fee: £70 (HOCO Harvest-share member); £100 (Friend of HOCO)
Please apply by: Thursday 12 June, 2025.
The application process includes an informal phone chat.
Get in touch about Fruitful Futures here.
