Mini Orchard Planted at the Historic Broughton Pinfold - Thanks to Coronation Living Heritage Grant
17th of June, 2025
Broughton Parish Council is pleased to announce the planting of a new mini orchard at the historic Pinfold site, made possible through a generous £360 grant from the Coronation Living Heritage Fund at Lancashire County Council.
The grant has enabled the Parish Council to breathe new life into this historically significant location by introducing five dwarf apple trees, carefully chosen to protect the foundations and structure of The Pinfold. The orchard includes two Scrumptious apple trees, two Cox’s Self-Fertile, and one Fiesta apple tree.
The decision to create a mini orchard in this unique location was inspired by a desire to enhance its use while preserving its historical significance. The Pinfold a small, stone-walled enclosure—dates back to medieval times. By the late 1500s, almost every village in England had its own pinfold, used to hold stray livestock until their owners paid a release fee to the pinder an officer of the Lord of the Manor. Interfering with the pinfold, such as releasing animals without payment, was a punishable offence, often leading to fines or even imprisonment.
Today, with only three surviving pinfolds left in Lancashire, Broughton’s stands as a rare and important reminder of our rural past.
The orchard will not only enhance the biodiversity and appearance of the site but will also offer a sustainable source of fruit for local residents. Once the trees begin to bear fruit, everyone is welcome to help themselves to the apples, a small gesture that promotes community sharing and appreciation of local heritage.
Broughton Parish Council would like to extend their sincere thanks to Lancashire County Council and the Coronation Living Heritage Fund for supporting this project, which brings together history, sustainability, and community spirit.
We look forward to watching the orchard flourish and hope the Pinfold will continue to be a place of quiet reflection, community pride, and historical education for generations to come.