This annual festival has grown to encompass events all around the UK. Here are our picks.
The first Apple Day was held in 1990 at the old Apple Market in London's Covent Garden. It was initiated by the Common Ground organisation, who had become dismayed at the dwindling number of orchards in the UK. It's now very much a staple of our food calendar.
And while the weather may have played havoc with apple crops this year, we should still get out there and celebrate the harvest of this great British fruit at one of many Apple Day events around the UK. Here's where you can do precisely that. Please note that several events, including the Middle Farm Apple Festival in Sussex, have been cancelled due to the recent poor weather. Finally if you know of any apple events we've missed, please add them to the comments below.
English Apple Day at Portobello Road Market
This famous old market hosts cookery demonstrations and special apple products.
When: 19-20 October
Where: Portobello Road Market, London
Cost: Free
More info: www.portobellomarket.org
Apple Day at Lathcoats Farm
This farm is celebrating 100 years, and what better way to do it then with a food market, an apple pie versus apple cake competition and much more.
When: 20 October
Where: Lathcoats Farm, Galleywood, Essex
Cost: Free
More info: www.eapples.co.uk (PDF)
Ely Apple Festival
Apple and spoon racing, longest apple peel competition, apple activities and goodies including apple sausages, juices, ciders and cookery demonstrations.
When: 20 October
Where: Palace Garden, Ely
Cost: Free
More info: visitely.eastcambs.gov.uk
Southwell Bramley Apple Festival
Celebrate this renowned apple in its birthplace with events around the town including a food and drink festival at the Minster.
When: 20 October
Where: Various venues around Southwell
Cost: Most events free; food festival £1.50 donation
More info: www.southwellcouncil.com (PDF)
Apple and Ale Festival
What a combination – fine fruit and beautiful booze, plus some free live music!
When: 20-21 October
Where: Fleece Inn, Bretforton, Worcestershire
Cost: Free
More info: www.thefleeceinn.co.uk
Brogdale Apple Festival
The single largest display of apple varieties in the UK is just one of the highlights of this two-day event.
When: 20-21 October
Where: Brogdale Farm, Kent
Cost: Adults £7; children £3; family £18
More info: applefestivalkent.blogspot.co.uk
Apple Day at Borough Market
London's famous food market opens its doors on a Sunday with a host of apple and cider producers on hand.
When: 21 October
Where: Borough Market, London
Cost: Free
More info: www.boroughmarket.org.uk
Apple Day at Windmill Hill City Farm
Pressing, bobbing, peeling, even an artist is joining the fun at this friendly farm in Bristol.
When: 21 October
Where: Windmill Hill City Farm, Bristol
Cost: £3.50 adults; £1.50 children
More info: www.windmillhillcityfarm.org.uk
Peatlands Park Apple Day
Celebrating Armagh’s apple heritage and varieties with apple crafts, cooking, trees and products.
When: 21 October
Where: Peatlands Park, Dungannon
Cost: Free
More info: www.discovernorthernireland.com
Shenley Park Trust Apple Day
Bobbing, a shy, a cookery competition (our Charlotte won second place with this recipe) and more.
When: 21 October
Where: Shenley Park, Shenley, Hertfordshire
Cost: Adults £2; children (3-16) 50p
More info: www.shenleypark.co.uk
And one next month...
Apples at Ampleforth
A tour of the historic orchard and cider mill followed by tastings and lunch
When: 8 November
Where: Ampleforth Abbey, York
Cost: £15
More info: www.visitors.ampleforth.org.uk