Allotments, how to snag one and what to expect when you get to the other side.
In the UK, most allotments are managed by local councils or private associations.
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If you love the idea of fresh air, fresh food, and a bit of physical work, an allotment is a brilliant investment of time and energy. Just be prepared for the commitment, and the occasional friendly debate over who’s left the communal wheelbarrow in a ditch.
Below: I like being able to grow fruit varieties you can't buy in the shops.
For many, including me, allotments offer a break from urban life, a chance to connect with nature, and a way to save on grocery bills.
How to get an allotment: Step-by-step:
1. Find your local allotment sites:
Start by contacting your local council or searching online for allotment sites near you. Most councils have a list of locations and waiting lists. I found mine by Googling “allotments near me” and calling the council.
Sometimes, private landowners rent out plots. Keep an eye out for signs or try contacting local farms and estates.
Pro tip: don’t assume there’s nothing available—some sites are hidden gems with shorter waiting lists.
2. Join the waiting list (and brace yourself):
Allotments are popular, and waiting lists can be long—sometimes years. I waited 18 months for mine, and it felt like forever. While you wait, join local gardening groups on social media.
You might hear about plots opening up or even shared spaces. Patience is key, but a little hustle never hurts.
3. Check the rules and costs:
Each site has its own rules governing what you can and can't do. There are legal responsibilities for both parties on allotments and you should make yourself aware beforehand. I have to keep paths and fences in good order on mine and we are not allowed any animals with cloven hoofs.
Some ban sheds; others insist on organic growing.
Costs vary too—mine’s £60 a year, but prices can range from £20 to £100 depending on location and the on site amenities.
Read the fine print so you know what you’re signing up for. I once met a guy who built a fancy shed, only to find out it broke site rules and had to remove it.
4. Prepare for the big day:
Inspect the plot before accepting and ask any questions before you sign. Some plots are in great condition, others look like they’ve hosted an apocalypse. Overgrown weeds and abandoned sheds might mean more work, but also more potential.
When you finally get the call, celebrate—but don’t dawdle. You’ll need tools, seeds, and a plan. I showed up with a rusty spade and big dreams, but trust me, a little prep goes a long way. I Started small by clearing weeds, digging over the soil, and planting a few easy crops like lettuce or radishes.
What to expect once you’ve got your allotment:
Chances are your plot is not going to be in the best of order. It takes a year to evict those not following the rules and you can't re-rent an allotment if there is already an active agreement on the plot.
Below: This was my allotment on day 1. There were brambles everywhere and the weeds were as tall as I am!
The Good: Fresh Air, Fresh Veggies, and New Friends.
There’s nothing like watching your first courgette sprout or sharing a cuppa with a fellow plot holder. I’ve made friends who’ve taught me everything from composting to keeping slugs at bay.
Below: The cabbages are coming on nicely. See the next picture down to see how this beauty turned out.
The community is gold—expect tips, swaps, and the occasional free plant. Plus, the taste of homegrown food? Chef’s kiss.
The Bad: Weeds, Weather, and Wildlife
Let’s not beat around the bush: allotments are hard work. Weeds grow faster than you can pull them, rain turns your plot into a swamp, and squirrels steal your strawberries.
Below: That same cabbage just a month later.
There is politics on allotments so keep your ears peeled for any shit stirrers!
I keep chickens on my allotment and occasionally they get out and do quite a lot of damage.
I once spent an hour chasing a pigeon off my cabbages. It won. Be ready for setbacks, but don’t let them dampen your spirits.
The Ugly: Time and Effort
Allotments demand commitment. Mine takes 5–10 hours a week in summer, less in winter. If you neglect it, you’ll face overgrown chaos—and maybe a stern letter from the council or the allotment association, and yes, allotment politics is a very real thing.
I learned this the hard way when my plot turned into a jungle after a busy month at work. Lesson learned: little and often beats big, rare efforts.
Tips to thrive on your allotment at the beginning:
Start Small: Don’t plant everything at once. I tried growing 10 crops my first year and ended up overwhelmed. Focus on 3–5 easy ones like potatoes, beans, or herbs.
Embrace Mistakes: My first carrots looked like aliens, but they still tasted great. Gardening is trial and error—enjoy the ride.
Get to Know Your Neighbours: They’ll share seeds, advice, and laughs. My plot mate saved me from a slug invasion with a beer trap trick.
Plan for Winter: Allotments aren’t just for summer. Plant winter crops like kale or prep the soil for spring. I use winter to dream up next year’s layout.