A coffee company has linked up with its local National Park to establish a ‘heritage orchard’ to support biodiversity and grow rare and traditional fruit trees in the area.

The link up between North York Moors National Park and Rounton Coffee aims to “celebrate local agricultural heritage and connect people with nature”.

Already planted are the Hunt House Apple from Goathland, Yorkshire Greening Apple, Ribston Pippin Apple, and Ryedale Bullace. These are “species carefully selected for their resilience to local climate and soil conditions, as well as their historical and cultural significance”, said the coffee company.

“As the orchard develops over the coming years, it will become a haven for biodiversity, providing valuable habitat for wildlife and pollinators while also storing carbon and improving soil health,” it added.

“The orchard will also preserve local fruit varieties for future generations to enjoy -celebrating local agricultural heritage and connecting people with both nature and shared history.”

Yorkshire based Rounton Coffee is committed to donating 1% of its annual sales to nature restoration initiatives and partnerships.

“Partnering with the North York Moors Trust to create this orchard is a natural extension of that commitment – investing in biodiversity, celebrating our roots, and giving back to the landscape we call home,” said Rounton Coffee founder David Beattie.

North York Moors Trust executive director James Metcalfe added: “This project is a perfect example of how partnerships between us and local business can bring real benefits to nature and people.

“By establishing this orchard, we’re not only supporting biodiversity but also helping to connect people with nature and heritage.”

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