Bramley Apple Tree (Original) Guide
The Bramley Apple Tree: A Taste of History in Every Bite Guide
Pay homage to the matriarch of all Bramley apples! The original Bramley apple tree, still standing in Southwell, is a living monument to a culinary icon. This unassuming tree, tucked away in a private garden, is the source of a fruit that has graced kitchens and delighted taste buds for over two centuries. It's a pilgrimage for food lovers and a testament to the enduring power of nature. The story of the Bramley apple began in 1809 when a young girl named Mary Ann Brailsford planted a pip in her garden. The resulting tree flourished, and in 1846, a local butcher named Matthew Bramley bought the cottage and allowed a local nurseryman, Henry Merryweather, to take cuttings from the tree. Merryweather began selling the apples under the name "Bramley's Seedling," and the rest, as they say, is history. The Bramley apple, with its tart flavor and unique cooking properties, quickly became a staple in British cuisine. While you can't wander freely around the tree (it's on private property), you can view it from the roadside. More importantly, you can celebrate the Bramley apple by indulging in the many culinary delights it inspires! Southwell is brimming with cafes and restaurants serving Bramley apple pies, crumbles, cakes, and other treats. Look out for local farm shops selling fresh Bramley apples and other locally sourced produce. It's a chance to taste history and experience the unique flavor of this iconic fruit.
Transportation
The original Bramley Apple Tree is located on Church Street in Southwell. From Nottingham, take the Stagecoach bus 28 towards Southwell. Alight at the Southwell Minster stop, and walk along Church Street. The tree is located in a private garden, but is visible from the street.