The History of Apps Court Farm
Apps Court Farm is a 120-acre site located near Walton-on-Thames in Surrey, England. The farm has a long and rich history that dates back to the medieval times. The land was originally owned by the Order of St John of Jerusalem, a religious order that was founded in the 11th century to care for the sick and needy. The farm was then called the ‘Preceptory of the Knights Hospitaller’ and was used to grow crops to feed the knights who lived there.
Following the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, the farm was sold to various private owners. The land was used for agriculture until the 19th century, when it became an important part of the London dairy industry. The farm supplied milk, cheese, and other dairy products to London, which was just a short journey down the Thames river.
In the early 20th century, the farm was bought by Walter Watney, a brewer who wanted to use the land to grow hops for his beer. He built a new hop garden and created a pond to supply water for his crops. The pond is still a prominent feature of the farm today and is used for fishing and leisure activities.
During the Second World War, the farm was used as a base for the Home Guard, a volunteer force that was formed to defend the UK against German invasion. Soldiers were trained on the farm and the land was used to grow crops to feed the troops. After the war, the farm returned to civilian use and was owned by a series of families who continued to farm the land and keep livestock.
In the 1970s, the farm became a popular destination for local people who wanted to picnic and enjoy leisure activities such as fishing and boating. In the 1990s, the farm was bought by Elmbridge Borough Council and was transformed into a country park, with walking and cycling trails, picnic areas, and a children’s playground.
Today, Apps Court Farm is a thriving community hub that offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages. The farm is home to the popular Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sale, which takes place every Sunday throughout the year. The car boot sale attracts thousands of visitors each week and is the largest sale of its kind in Surrey. The farm also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as craft fairs, food festivals, and charity fundraisers.
Apps Court Farm continues to be a cherished part of the local community and its rich history is celebrated by visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or leisure activities, a visit to Apps Court Farm is a must-see for anyone visiting Surrey.
How Car Boot Sales Became Popular
Car boot sales are events where people sell their unwanted belongings from the boots of their cars. These sales used to be small, local events, but they have become increasingly popular over the years. Here is how car boot sales became popular:
The Rise of Consumerism
Consumerism is the belief that buying things leads to happiness and fulfillment. This belief was on the rise in Britain during the 1960s and 1970s. People were starting to buy more things, but they were also becoming more aware of the impact of consumerism on the environment. They wanted to find ways to recycle and reuse items instead of throwing them away.
Decline of Traditional Markets
Traditional markets used to be important places for people to buy and sell goods, but they were declining in popularity during the 1980s. Shoppers were starting to go to larger stores instead of smaller markets. This left a gap in the market for people who wanted to buy and sell second-hand items. Car boot sales became an alternative to traditional markets.
Rise of the Internet
The rise of the internet has had a huge impact on the way people buy and sell goods. Websites like eBay and Gumtree have made it easy for people to sell items online, but they have also made it easier for buyers to find items as well. This has made it difficult for car boot sales to compete with online marketplaces. However, there are still many people who prefer the experience of buying and selling items in person, which has helped to keep car boot sales popular.
Trend towards Sustainability
There has been a growing trend towards sustainability in recent years. People are becoming more aware of the impact that their actions have on the environment. Buying second-hand items is a great way to reduce waste and carbon emissions. Car boot sales provide a platform for people to sell their unwanted items and for others to buy them at a reduced cost. This trend towards sustainability has helped to keep car boot sales popular.
The Social Aspect
Car boot sales are not just about buying and selling items – they are also a social event. People enjoy meeting others and chatting while browsing through the items for sale. Car boot sales have become a weekend activity for many families and groups of friends. This social aspect has helped to keep car boot sales popular over the years.
In conclusion, car boot sales have become popular due to the rise of consumerism, the decline of traditional markets, the rise of the internet, the trend towards sustainability, and the social aspect of the events. These factors have helped to create a fun and unique way for people to buy and sell unwanted items. If you haven’t been to a car boot sale yet, it’s definitely worth checking out!
What You Can Expect to Find at Apps Court Farm Car Boot
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your weekends, why not head over to the Apps Court Farm Car Boot? Located in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, this bustling car boot sale is a treasure trove of hidden gems and unique finds. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just looking for a bargain, there’s something for everyone at this popular event. Here’s what you can expect to find:
1. Second-hand Goods
As with any car boot sale, the majority of items on offer at Apps Court Farm are second-hand. This is great news for bargain hunters, as it means that you can find some incredible deals on everything from clothes and shoes to electronics and furniture. The key to success at any car boot sale is to arrive early, as the best items tend to get snapped up quickly. It’s also worth bringing cash with you, as many sellers won’t accept card payments.
2. Fresh Produce
In addition to second-hand goods, Apps Court Farm Car Boot also boasts a selection of fresh produce. This is a great opportunity to stock up on locally grown fruits and vegetables at a fraction of the cost of supermarket prices. You’ll also find plenty of homemade jams, chutneys, and baked goods on offer, making it the perfect place to stock up on tasty treats. Make sure to bring a reusable shopping bag with you, as you’re sure to be leaving with plenty of goodies!
3. Fun Activities for Kids
If you’re planning to bring the kids along, don’t worry – there’s plenty to keep them entertained at the Apps Court Farm Car Boot! In addition to the shopping stalls, there are also a range of fun activities for children to enjoy. These include a bouncy castle, face painting, and even pony rides! The farm itself is also open during the car boot sale, giving kids the chance to get up close and personal with a range of friendly animals including pigs, sheep, and goats.
4. Delicious Food and Drink
All that shopping, exploring, and playing is bound to leave you feeling hungry, but fortunately, there are plenty of delicious food and drink options on offer at the Apps Court Farm Car Boot. From freshly cooked burgers and hot dogs to vegetarian and vegan street food, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets. Of course, you can’t leave without trying one of the famous Apps Court Farm ice creams – they’re made using milk from the farm’s own cows and are widely regarded as some of the best in the area.
5. Unique Gifts and Handmade Crafts
If you’re looking for a unique gift or just want to treat yourself to something special, then keep an eye out for the handmade crafts and unique items on offer at Apps Court Farm Car Boot. You’ll find a range of one-of-a-kind items including handmade jewellery, pottery, artwork, and much more. Buying from independent crafters and local artisans is a great way to support small businesses and discover some truly special pieces.
In conclusion, the Apps Court Farm Car Boot is a fantastic day out for all the family, with plenty of bargains and entertainment on offer. So why not get out there and discover what treasures await you?
Tips for Buying and Selling at Car Boot Sales
Car boot sales, like the one held at Apps Court Farm, are great places to buy and sell second-hand items. Whether you are looking to make some extra cash or find a bargain, there are a few tips you should keep in mind.
Tip #1: Arrive Early
If you are looking to buy, make sure to arrive early. The best items tend to go quickly, so arriving as early as possible will give you the best chance to find a great deal. If you are selling, it is also a good idea to arrive early so that you can set up before the crowds arrive.
Tip #2: Bring Cash
It is best to bring cash with you to car boot sales. While some sellers may accept card payments, many will only take cash. Make sure to bring smaller denominations so that you can give exact change.
Tip #3: Be Prepared to Haggle
When buying or selling at car boot sales, haggling is expected. If you are selling, it is a good idea to price your items a little higher than you expect to get so that you have room to negotiate. If you are buying, don’t be afraid to make an offer that is less than the asking price. Just make sure to be respectful and not insult the seller with an unfairly low offer.
Tip #4: Look for Hidden Gems
Some of the best finds at car boot sales are hidden gems that other buyers have overlooked. Make sure to take your time and look through all of the items on offer. You never know what you might find!
Remember, car boot sales are a fun way to buy and sell secondhand items. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your experience at Apps Court Farm car boot or any other car boot sale.
Community Impact of Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales
Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales has become a staple in the community, offering locals a chance to rent a space to sell their goods and find great deals on secondhand items. But its impact goes beyond just providing a marketplace for buyers and sellers. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways that Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales has positively affected the community.
1. Boosting Local Economy
One of the most significant impacts of Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales is the boost it provides to the local economy. As people come to the car boot to sell and buy items, they often stop in nearby shops and restaurants, providing a steady flow of business for the local establishments. It also provides an opportunity for local artisans and entrepreneurs to showcase their products and gain more exposure in the community. Because of this, the car boot sales event has become a significant part of the community’s economic growth.
2. Encouraging a Sustainable Lifestyle
Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales also has a significant impact on promoting sustainability and reducing waste. Participants in the car boot sales event often sell reusable items such as clothes, shoes, and furniture that would otherwise end up in the landfill. By purchasing secondhand goods, buyers reduce their carbon footprint and lessen their contribution to the growing waste problem. Additionally, car boot sales events encourage upcycling and repurposing, which encourages creativity and innovation.
3. Strengthening Community Ties
Another essential impact of Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales is its ability to strengthen community ties by providing a space for social interaction and relationship building. People from different backgrounds and walks of life gather in the car boot sales event, creating a melting pot of cultures and a sense of togetherness that strengthens community bonds. Attending the event and engaging with other participants also helps overcome social isolation and provides an avenue to make new friends and form new connections.
4. Supporting Local Charities
Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales also helps support local charities within the community. The organizers of the car boot sales event often partner with local charities and donate a portion of the proceeds to their cause. Participants also have an opportunity to donate their unsold goods or unwanted items to charity, which provides a way for them to give back to the community.
5. Creating Job Opportunities
Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales also creates job opportunities for members of the community. The organizers of the event have to hire staff to manage the logistics of the car boot sales, such as cleaning, parking management, and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic for sellers and buyers. Additionally, participants in the car boot sales event often hire helpers or assistants to man their booths or help with transportation, creating opportunities for part-time or freelance work.
Apps Court Farm Car Boot Sales has become an institution in the community, providing numerous benefits to the people and businesses within it. From boosting the local economy to promoting sustainability, strengthening community ties, and creating job opportunities, it has proven to be a vital component of the community’s growth and development. With the continued support and participation of the community, we can expect even more significant impacts in the future.