So how did Pick Your Own all begin?
Well, it started with Dad… Back in 1971.
Farmer Roy, took a bold step and planted our very first crop of Pick-Your-Own strawberries. His vision paved the way for what our farm is today and we’ve been welcoming visitors ever since!
Who are we today?
Now Farmer Simon continues the family tradition with the same passion and dedication as his dad. Thanks to the support of his sister Elaine Clarke who helped to drive forward Pick Your Own and seasonal events, not forgetting their brother Rob Clarke who’s our IT guru!
We now have 17 acres dedicated to ‘Pick-Your-Own’ strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants and blackberries throughout the summer months.
Back in 1998, we began transitioning to table-top picking – but why? Some of our soil is not ideal for growing fruit, so we made the decision to switch to peat bags, later adopting coir bags (made from coconut fibre) for a more sustainable way to grow.
Not only is this better for the environment, but it also makes fruit picking easier and more enjoyable for our visitors – a win-win for everyone!
In 2016 our Pumpkin Fest event was established, starting with a few straw bales of pumpkins. Now, when autumn rolls in, we grow thousands of pumpkins, squashes and gourds, setting the stage for our much-loved Pumpkin Fest event. Our fields transform into a spooktacular haven and our characters Willow Boo Witch, Wardy Gourdy, Strawbs and Pippin burst in to life, delighting families year after year for a spooktacular October celebration. For nine years and counting, Pumpkin Fest has been a seasonal favourite of ours.
2021 saw the introduction of our Nature Trail, Maize Maze and Sunflower Fields as we started to diversify and encourage visitors to explore more of our farm.
As we continue to grow and evolve, we are thrilled to welcome visitors to Manor Farm Fruits for unforgettable, farm fresh fun — where every season brings something new to discover!
