Future of first Bramley apple tree in doubt as cottage where it stands is sold
The future of the original Bramley apple tree in Southwell, Nottinghamshire is uncertain after the garden it resides in was sold by Nottingham Trent University. Campaigners had aimed to purchase the property to preserve public access and create a heritage site. The new owners have expressed commitment to caring for the tree, but concerns remain about its future status.
- ▪The original Bramley apple tree is over 200 years old and was planted by Mary Ann Brailsford.
- ▪Nottingham Trent University sold the garden containing the tree to private owners, leaving campaigners disappointed.
- ▪The new owners, Joshua and Alicia Wheatley, have committed to maintaining the tree and ensuring public access.
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The original Bramley apple tree in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. Photograph: Robert Rathbone/The Woodland TrustView image in fullscreenThe original Bramley apple tree in Southwell, Nottinghamshire. Photograph: Robert Rathbone/The Woodland TrustUK newsFuture of first Bramley apple tree in doubt as cottage where it stands is soldCampaigners had hoped to buy property from Nottingham Trent University to maintain public accessSammy GecsoylerSat 30 May 2026 09.15 EDTLast modified on Sat 30 May 2026 09.37 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleBramley apples are a staple in supermarkets across the UK and it all started in a house in Nottinghamshire.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at World news | The Guardian.