Wassail group gathering at The Holly Bush before setting off to Thistlefields Orchard
The traditional Wassailing (blessing) of the apple trees to give a good harvest took place on the Holly Bush’s Thistlefield Orchard on Sunday 25th January 2026..
The itinerary was the same as in previous years, that is the crowd gathered at the Holly Bush, at 15.00hrs, and then moved on to the nearby Thistlefield Orchard to celebrate. There they were met by Holly Bush landlord Chris Wilbraham and served mulled cider made from last years’ crop of apples. A couple of stories were read out, a song sung and then much bashing and crashing of implements. The group then returned to the Holly Bush for a music session.
Wassail
Close up of fire.
The Thistlefield Orchard has been planted up by Chris over the last 20 years and contains over 200 apple trees and several beehives.
