Where to Pick Field-Fresh Fruit Near London This July (And What to Do With It All Afterwards)
July is peak season for fruit lovers. From strawberries and raspberries to blackberries, redcurrants, plums and cherries, the fields just outside London are bursting with succulence at this time of year.
Whether you're planning a countryside escape or looking for a meaningful activity with children, fruit picking is one of summer’s simplest pleasures - and a delicious way to bring the flavours of the season into your home.
Best Pick-Your-Own Farms Near London:
01 | Parkside Farm (Enfield)
North Londoners love Parkside for its neat, raised strawberry beds and easy layout. Raspberries, blackberries and veg are also available. Booking in advance is essential.
www.parksidefarmpyo.co.uk
02 | Garsons Farm (Esher)
One of the UK’s largest pick-your-own experiences, Garsons offers over 28 fruit and vegetable crops, plus a superb garden centre and farm shop.
www.garsons.co.uk
03 | Crockford Bridge Farm (Weybridge)
A welcoming, family-focused farm with a variety of soft fruits. Expect extras like an ice cream parlour, food pop-ups and seasonal events.
www.crockfordbridgefarm.co.uk
What’s in Season in July:
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blackberries
Redcurrants and Blackcurrants
Gooseberries
Early cherries and plums
These fruits are easy to pick, big on deliciousness, and ideal for picnics, preserving, freezing or eating straight from the punnet.
What to Expect When Fruit Picking:
Farms may charge a small entry fee, usually deducted from the cost of your crop.
Most require advance booking - especially at weekends.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and arrive early for the best pick.
You’ll be provided with baskets, bags and punnets - some farms might charge for these.
Many sites offer child-friendly signage or trails, making it a great opportunity for children to connect their food to its source.
What to Do With the Field-Fresh Fruit:
Freeze: Wash, then lay berries on a tray, freeze, then store in bags. Perfect for smoothies, porridge or baking.
Compote: Simmer gently with lemon and a little maple syrup or honey. Keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
Chia Jam: Mix mashed berries with chia seeds and lemon zest for a quick, refined sugar-free spread.
Summer salad: Pair blackberries or raspberries with goat’s cheese, rocket and walnuts.
No Time to Pick?
Many of these farms also sell fresh fruit, frozen punnets and locally-made preserves. It’s a fantastic way to support growers without having to spend a full day in the field.
Farm shops at Garsons and Crockford Bridge are particularly well stocked with:
Frozen fruit
Small-batch, low-sugar jams
Berry coulis and juices
Pro Farmer’s Tip:
“Ripe berries don’t wait, and neither should you. Don’t just pick for today — pick for your freezer.”
- A long-time picker at Garsons Farm
Most regulars plan ahead: freezing extra berries, prepping simple compotes or batch-cooking crumbles to enjoy all season long.
@CiD Clients: Would you like to find out what’s picking at a PYO Farm near you? Just ping your CiD EA who’ll find out, and book for you.