Allotments
For health, wealth and happiness, why not enjoy an allotment?
Discover an activity that the whole family can enjoy. Allotments are a great way to get some healthy exercise whilst cultivating home grown produce that you can be proud of!
'Grow Your Own' Workshop Saturday 22nd May / 25th September (186 KB) (opens in a new window)
'Grow Your Own' Workshop Booking Form (69 KB) (opens in a new window)
North Hertfordshire District Council manages 12 allotment sites in the urban areas of Hitchin, Letchworth and Baldock. Details of each site can be seen on the adjoining links. Only residents of North Herts District can apply.
Prices
The current cost of a 5-pole (125sqm) plot is £28 per annum. Half-price concessions are available if you are over 60 years of age, unemployed, receiving disability benefit or income support or are a full-time student over 18 years of age.
How to apply
Most sites now have waiting lists. Applicants can only be added to one waiting list at a time so have a look at each sites details before choosing. Find your nearest allotment.
All new applicants receive the acknowledgement below:
Acknowledgement Letter for Allotment Applicants (26 KB) (opens in a new window)
When a plot becomes available, the person on the top of the waiting list is allocated the plot. It is best to view the allocated plot as they are 'sold as seen'. When the offer of a plot is accepted, a copy of the Allotment Starter document accompanies payment details:
Allotment Starter Information Pack (2.7 MB) (opens in a new window)
If you would like to go on the waiting list of your choice or for further information please contact us on 01462 474000 or email service@north-herts.gov.uk 
Other allotments
Royston also has allotments which are located in Green Street. These are owned by Royston Town Council, who can be contacted on 01763 245484 or visit their website at www.roystontowncouncil.gov.uk 
A number of parish councils run allotment sites in the rural district please contact your relevant Parish Council for availability.
In Letchworth, the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation run allotment sites in Lytton Avenue, South View, Saffron Hill, Bedford Road and Common View. These are generally only let to Letchworth residents. Details can be sought from tel. 01462 476007.
The allotment site in Gaping Lane, Hitchin is owned by Herts County Council, details of availability can be obtained from Smith, Lambert & Hamden on tel. 01727 896219.
Allotments Newsletters
North Herts Allotments Newsletter 2010 (1.13 MB) (opens in a new window)
What's in it for me?
A Guide to the Benefits of Allotments (29 KB) (opens in a new window)
Health
- Exercise at your own pace
- Enjoy the fresh air
- Eat fresh fruit and vegetables
- Grow produce organically
- Regain a sense of well-being
- Get in touch with nature and the environment
Wealth
- Enjoy organically grown fruit and vegetables at a fraction of shop prices
- Grow flowers for any occasion!
- Where else will you find a hobby for as little as around £2 per month?
- Or around £1 per month at concessionary rates
Happiness
- Escape the stress and strain of life
- Make new friends in your local community
- Take pride in your achievements
- Enjoy a family activity
- Watch your children learn
Hints & Tips
- The best time of year to start an allotment is the Autumn
- If you are new to gardening, start with some easy produce such as potatoes, carrots and onions
- Try sharing an allotment with a friend to start with
- You can create your own compost heap and do your bit for the environment
Landshare is a website which connects growers with landowners and vice versa. Visit the website to register your land or see what is available in your local area.
'Allotments: A Plot Holders Guide' can be downloaded from the Communities and Local Government This guide is for anyone who rents, or is thinking of renting, an allotment plot. It outlines things you need to know and gives a list of contacts who can answer more detailed questions.
Allotments UK - This website offers help and advice to get the most from your allotment.
Garden Organic This website offers vast information on growing your own organic produce. Garden Organic is Europe's largest organic membership organisation and is dedicated to researching and promoting organic gardening, farming and food.
