THERE's a bumper crop of apples this year in the orchards in the grounds of the National Trust property at Cotehele, and the estate is celebrating with a weekend of apple fun.

Orchard manager Chris Groves said this year's crop is so heavy, several trees have had their branches broken through the weight of fruit.

'Apple Weekend is a time for us to honour our apples and to raise awareness of the decline of traditonal orchards in the Tamar Valley,' said Chris.

Cotehele's 'Apple Weekend' is on October 1 and 2.

Cotehele's old orchard dates back three centuries and is home to a diverse range of local varieties including the elegant Cornish aromatic, small pickling apples with long stems known as sweet larks, the juicy pig snout and the strong but sweet lady's fingers. Even varieties that have underperformed in the past, like the Devonshire quarrenden, have done well this year. In addition, the 300 trees in the newly planted mother orchard are putting on good growth.

'This festival rewards all the pruning we did in January,' says Chris. 'Our hard work is now paying off.'

Visitors can meet the gardeners, watch the huge apple press in full operation for cider making, sip freshly pressed apple juice, taste and compare different apples, and savour delicious apple-based food.

Children can discover an apple trail created just for them; and there will be a cooking demonstration and a family cookalong. Visitors are also invited to join in with the Tamar Dowsers who will be on site exploring the garden and surrounding area. The fun continues from 11am to 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday.

 The weekend coincides with National Garden Scheme Day. From 2pm to 3pm on Sunday, October 2 visitors are invited to join Cotehele's gardeners for a 'natural larder' guided walk. Participants will meet on Cotehele Quay to explore the woodland and hedgerow, collect seasonal bounty and sample their harvest.

Booking is essential for Cotehele's natural larder on 01579 351346; Adult £10, Children £5 (suitable walking shoes required). For Apple Weekend and National Garden Scheme Day booking is not necessary and normal admission charges apply.