Damson Day

Did you know that Saturday 12 April is Damson Day? 

Damsons have been grown in the Westmorland area since at least the early 1700s and in times gone by the blossom filled orchards in April were such a sight that people travelled from all over Lancashire to see them on Damson Sunday.  In September, on Damson Saturday, Kendal would be awash with the freshly picked fruit being sold and carted to jam factories in Lancashire.

Today damsons are still harvested from ancient orchards, particularly in the Lyth Valley.  The fruits are often sold directly by the roadside and in local shops and can be used to make jam, chutney, wine and gin.  I’ve been working on a new heritage recipe tea towel design celebrating this traditional local harvest and featuring an adaptation of a 15th century recipe; Damson & Apple Tansy. My recipe trial is shown below with my Pink Ribbon Stripe tea towel.  It is delicious and I can’t wait for you to try it.

Damson Day continues to be celebrated every year in April.  This year it’s being held on the Westmorland Show Ground 10am – 4pm Saturday 12 April.

For more information: 

Facebook: Damson Day Fair | www.lythdamsons.org.uk