Wellmoor’s Community Allotment
Cultivating Health and Happiness: Wellmoor’s Community Allotment
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Dartmoor, the Moretonhampstead Community Allotment is far more than a patch of greenery - it is a lifeline for many. Run by the charity organisation Wellmoor, which champions health and wellbeing across local communities, this thriving space has grown into a hub of connection and healing.
From Vision to Reality
The idea for the allotment came from local GPs who recognized the therapeutic benefits of time spent outdoors. They envisioned a place where patients could be “prescribed” gardening and outdoor work to support recovery from both physical and mental health challenges.
Wellmoor took up the challenge in July 2019, converting a patch of land in the local allotments into a flourishing community space. Four years later, this initiative has blossomed, offering much more than just fresh produce—it is a space where people grow stronger, together.
More Than Just a Garden
The allotment is now a sanctuary where volunteers from all walks of life come to dig, plant, and connect. One of our volunteers, describes how the space offers more than meets the eye.
‘I have been involved with our Community Allotment for 2 years. Mixing with other members of the community, enjoying their company and the rewarding nature of growing vegetables, and being out in a beautiful environment has been such a positive experience. We have enjoyed cooking at the allotment and singing around a fire pit with a meal. I would encourage anyone to be involved with a community allotment or to begin one.’
For those dealing with anxiety, depression, or chronic health conditions, the allotment provides a natural remedy. Many find the physical activity and the peaceful environment a source of strength.
One member of the team says: ‘When I came to the allotment, I was new to the area and found being in groups of people made me anxious, but being in the allotment team is fun and relaxed. Working alongside others and feeling like you belong to something with a shared purpose… I love coming here! It gets me out of the house, I have made some good friends, and I have learned a lot about growing and cooking healthy food.’
A Thriving Community
Since its creation, the allotment has become a cornerstone of the community, welcoming people of all ages and abilities. From learning about low cost cooking to workshops on sustainable gardening, it is a place where learning and connection flourish.
Regular community events - like Autumn celebrations, where participants sing around a fire pit, and cooking sessions using the allotment’s produce - further nurture bonds between participants, and thanks to the collective effort of volunteers, some of the harvest is shared with the local Community Larder, ensuring the benefits reach even further.
A Look Ahead
Looking to the future, Wellmoor is committed to expanding its impact. This year we are developing our partnership with Chagford Community Allotment and will be running a variety of horticultural and creative workshops designed to bring people together, share knowledge and expertise, and promote physical health and mental wellbeing. Both allotment sites also have plans to develop family friendly areas and involve young people.
Growing Together
What began as a vision to support patients has become a beacon of community spirit. Wellmoor’s allotment proves that sometimes, the best medicine is found in the earth beneath our feet and the friendships we cultivate along the way.
Whether you are looking for a place to meet others, to heal, or simply to enjoy the beauty of Dartmoor, Wellmoor’s Community Allotment is ready to welcome you with open arms- and a pair of gardening gloves.