Henley-on-Thames Allotments Association
The Henley-on-Thames Allotments Association is an active association for allotment gardeners in Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire with around 200 members on two sites.
Our members have the opportunity to grow their own soft fruits and vegetables which just taste better than shop bought produce and can be cheaper. Varieties can be selected for flavour and taste, not looks and durability. Soft fruits and tomatoes allowed to ripen before picking become more sweet and flavoursome. Vegetables cooked and eaten immediately after picking taste better and retain the natural vitamins.
An allotment plot is not all hard work; but can be regarded as healthy exercise in the fresh air without paying gym fees. It is also a place to relax and unwind, a place to meet friends with similar interests.
Allotments are becoming more popular. We currently have a waiting list and we are negotiating with the Town Council to find a third site. A traditional allotment was 10 square poles (302.5 square yards), enough to keep a large family in vegetables throughout the year. In comparison, modern families are small, so that a more manageable 5 square poles, an area approximately 5 metres x 25 metres is usually sufficient and can be cultivated by one family or an energetic individual as an enjoyable leisure time activity.