Competitors Will Try to Hurl Apples Across the River Ure for a Trophy at Newby Hall's Apple Throwing Championships
Last year's champion from Workington threw more than 80 metres, and the day also hosts a World Jam Festival judged by chef Andrew Pern.
Newby Hall's Apple Throwing Championships will return on Sunday 27 September 2026, when competitors at the North Yorkshire estate near Ripon will try to launch apples across the River Ure as part of Apple Day, the final event of the house's 2026 season.
The throwing runs from 1pm to 3pm, with the best throwers qualifying for a grand final at 3:30pm and the championship trophy. According to Newby Hall, anyone who gets all three of their apples to the far side of the river will be invited back for the final.
Last year's title went to Lucas Robinson of Workington, who won with a throw of more than 80 metres, Your Harrogate reported on 14 September 2026.
Apple Day also includes apple pressing, cider tasting and the World Jam Festival and Awards, which drew more than 200 entries from countries including Australia and Brazil last year and will be judged by Michelin-starred chef Andrew Pern. Head gardener Lawrence Wright said the warm, dry summer had produced a smaller crop with excellent concentrated flavour but less juice, from orchards holding more than 50 varieties, some dating back to the 1880s.
Newby Hall's season ends on 27 September, and the Best in Show winner at the jam awards will have the chance to have their entry stocked in the estate's shop. Commercial director Stuart Gill said Apple Day was a brilliant way to celebrate the end of another fantastic season.