Celebrating Community, Connection, and Creativity at Oldroyd’s Corner Yorkshire CIC
By Jo Featherstone, Project Officer (Growing Green and Blue Health)
This National Allotments Week, we’re delighted to feature an inspiring, all-weather community garden right on our doorstep – Oldroyd’s Corner Yorkshire CIC. Nestled behind Woodmansey Garden Centre, this vibrant space is proof that even through rain, wind, or sunshine, the transformative power of gardening and community can flourish all year round.
A Green Oasis for Every Season
Step through the garden centre and you’ll discover Oldroyd’s Corner: a spacious acre under glass, making it the perfect tranquil haven in all weathers. Watch garden birds on the central lawn, enjoy a riot of colour from varied planting, or simply soak up the calm. Whether you’re a visitor, a community group, or one of the dedicated volunteers, this is a welcoming space to relax, grow, and connect.
Growing Together – Independently
It’s important to know that while Oldroyd’s Corner shares a location with Woodmansey Garden Centre, it operates independently as a social enterprise. All funding comes from the community – events, donations, and the vital support of those who use the space – ensuring it can continue offering activities and help for local groups and individuals.
The story starts with a partnership between landowner Jon Los and Paul, whose tireless energy began turning a derelict greenhouse into a thriving hub back in 2016. Today, Oldroyd’s Corner is buzzing with activity. Teaching spaces and workshops have been established, providing opportunities for learning, networking, and community get-togethers.
A Shed in a Greenhouse – and So Much More
One of Oldroyd’s Corner’s standout features is ‘Beverley and Woodmansey Men in Sheds.’ This fully equipped wooden workshop – the ‘Shed in a Greenhouse’ – is a place to relax, chat, make new friends, and get hands-on with woodworking. From furniture repair to crafting planters, hedgehog houses, and some of the most beautiful bird boxes around, creativity finds a home here.
Arts and photography thrive too, with Beverley and District Arts Club and Beverley Photography Club recently making Oldroyd’s their permanent base. The greenhouse regularly welcomes local groups, including Humber Recovery College, Hidden Disabilities, Bora Shabaa, Yorkshire in Business, Canine Partners, Worklink, and special educational sessions for students from Frederick Holmes School.
Every week, the ‘Secret Garden’ hosts yoga and wellbeing sessions, offering calm and mindful movement among the plants. And because Oldroyd’s Corner is sheltered, groups can meet throughout the year, whatever the weather.
Looking Forward
Excitement is growing with new plans for additional parking and outdoor workshop spaces, making Oldroyd’s even more accessible and versatile for the future.
The success of Oldroyd’s Corner truly comes down to the dedication of Paul and his partner Jo – hardworking, welcoming, and always ready for new opportunities. Their efforts, and those of a strong team of volunteers, have created a space filled with pride, laughter, and the joy of shared accomplishment.
Become a Volunteer – Make a Difference
Oldroyd’s Corner relies on its volunteers, who play a vital role in everything from painting, carpentry, and garden maintenance to welcoming visitors and supporting activities. Volunteer Day takes place every Friday, from 9am to 4pm – whether you can stay an hour or an afternoon, your contribution is warmly welcomed.
Gardening jobs include:
- General upkeep and DIY
- Interacting with visitors
- Watering, feeding, pruning, and weeding
- Planting vegetables and flowers, and sowing new seeds
If you’re looking for a way to give back, meet new friends, and be part of an inspiring community, why not lend a hand at Oldroyd’s Corner?
Join Us This National Allotment Week
From growing food and friendships to supporting wellbeing and creativity, Oldroyd’s Corner Yorkshire CIC is proof of what communities can do together. Pop along, discover a hidden gem, and see how you can get involved.
Let’s celebrate the spirit of allotments and community gardening – at Oldroyd’s Corner and beyond!