The sun warms your back, birdsong fills the air, and the vibrant red jewels peeking from beneath emerald leaves beckon you closer. This isn’t a fairytale, but the delightful reality of strawberry picking in Derby, a quintessential English experience promising fresh air, family fun, and baskets overflowing with nature’s candy.
Strawberry season in Derby typically blossoms in June and stretches through July, painting the county’s landscape with a blush of sweetness. While supermarkets offer convenient punnets, there’s nothing quite like the joy of hand-picking your own fruit, savoring the taste of sunshine and effort in every bite. So, grab your baskets, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, because we’re diving into the juicy world of Derby’s strawberry picking!
Where to Pick Your Patch of Paradise:
Derby boasts several farms offering PYO (Pick Your Own) strawberry experiences, each with its unique charm. Here are some top picks:
- Scaddows Farm: A family-run haven nestled in South Derbyshire, Scaddows Farm is a beloved pick-your-own destination. Their sprawling strawberry fields promise an abundance of juicy berries, while the on-site shop and cafe offer delicious treats and refreshments to refuel after your picking adventure.
- Cattows Farm: Venture a little further south to Cattows Farm in Leicestershire, another firm favorite among strawberry enthusiasts. This seven-day-a-week operation boasts extensive fields ripe for the picking, along with a farm shop stocked with local goodies and a play area to keep little ones entertained.
- Manor Farm: If you’re looking for a farm-to-table experience, Manor Farm in Tamworth ticks all the boxes. While primarily a soft fruit grower, they offer seasonal PYO strawberries, allowing you to pick your own and sample their farm-fresh produce.
- Anslow Fruit Farm: This hidden gem near Burton boasts juicy strawberries alongside raspberries, gooseberries, and other delights. Their friendly atmosphere and commitment to sustainable farming make for a rewarding experience.
Tips for a Berrylicious Outing:
- Plan your visit: Strawberry season can be short-lived, so call ahead to confirm opening hours and field availability. Some farms require booking, especially during peak season.
- Dress for the occasion: Opt for comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking in fields. Sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent are essential companions.
- Bring your own containers: Most farms encourage you to bring your own baskets or tubs for collecting your bounty.
- Pick wisely: Look for plump, red berries with no green tinge. Gently twist and pull, not yank, to detach them from the stem.
- Respect the fields: Walk carefully between rows, avoid damaging plants, and only pick what you intend to buy.
- Make a day of it: Many farms offer additional attractions like farm shops, cafes, play areas, and farm tours, making it a fun-filled day trip for the whole family.
READ MORE: Strawberry picking in essex- a guide to farms and benefits
Beyond the Pick:
Your basket overflowing with ruby gems, the real fun begins! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your freshly picked strawberries:
- Classic treats: Nothing beats the pure pleasure of enjoying them fresh, dipped in chocolate, or transformed into a summery pavlova.
- Baking delights: Whip up homemade jams, pies, crumbles, or even a refreshing smoothie.
- Fruity cocktails: Muddle some strawberries into your mojito or gin and tonic for a burst of summer flavor.
- Savory surprises: Add a touch of sweetness to salads, salsas, or even grilled cheese sandwiches.
Delving Deeper into Derby’s PYO Delights
Seasonal Secrets: While June and July are the peak months, savvy strawberry seekers can sometimes find early-season varieties as early as May, or late-season berries extending into August at select farms. Be sure to call ahead to confirm availability based on the year’s weather patterns.
Beyond the Strawberry Patch: Many PYO farms offer additional fruits and vegetables for picking throughout the season. Expand your basket with raspberries, currants, gooseberries, and even cherries, depending on the farm and timing.
Family Fun & Educational Adventures: Farms often host events and activities alongside PYO, making it a full-fledged day trip. Look for farm tours, workshops, live music, or even animal encounters to add variety to your experience. Many farms also host educational activities, teaching children about agriculture and the importance of responsible sourcing.
The Eco-Conscious Picker: Support sustainable practices by choosing farms committed to environmentally friendly methods. Look for certifications like LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) or organic standards. Consider bringing reusable containers and opting for farms that encourage minimal waste practices.
Beyond the Farm Gate: Take your strawberry bounty on the road! Pack a picnic basket with freshly baked bread, cheese, and your favorite drinks, and find a scenic spot to enjoy your farm-to-table feast. Local vineyards or farm shops often offer complementary pairings with your berries.
Sharing the Sweetness: Don’t forget the joy of sharing! Host a “strawberries and cream” social for friends and family, bake treats for neighbors, or donate some of your harvest to a local food bank. Spreading the love of fresh, local produce makes the experience even more rewarding.
Capture the Memories: Take photos of your adventure, from the fields bursting with ripe berries to the smiles on your family’s faces. Share your experience on social media using relevant hashtags to support local farms and inspire others.
Remember, strawberry picking is an experience, not just a task. Embrace the sunshine, the fresh air, and the simple pleasure of connecting with nature and your loved ones. With a little planning and these extra tips, you’re guaranteed a Derby strawberry picking adventure that’s as sweet as the berries themselves!
Memories Sweeter than Strawberries:
Strawberry picking in Derby is more than just gathering fruit; it’s an experience that connects you with nature, fosters family bonding, and creates memories that linger long after the season ends. So, this summer, ditch the supermarket aisles and embark on a sweet adventure in the heart of Derbyshire. With a basket in hand and a smile on your face, discover the simple joy of picking your own patch of paradise.
Bonus Tip: Check out local farmers’ markets or farm gate sales for additional opportunities to savor the bounty of Derbyshire’s strawberry season!
A sweet Derbyshire adventure- picking the perfect strawberries