Spilmans Strawberry Fields for Summer Pick-Your-Own Season

About

Visitors are enjoying the arrival of the summer fruit season as Spilmans welcomes guests to its strawberry fields at Church Farm, Sessay, near Thirsk.

The family-run farm has opened its 100-acre site for pick-your-own strawberries, with the season continuing until the end of August. Following a successful start to the summer, visitors can enjoy freshly ripened fruit grown across the farm’s extensive strawberry fields.

Strawberry Season in Full Swing at Church Farm

According to Spilmans owner Tom Spilman, recent growing conditions have helped produce high-quality fruit for the season.

Following late frosts during April and May, the farm’s 120,000 strawberry plants were protected with fleece coverings. As temperatures stabilised, the strawberries were left to ripen naturally in the sunshine, creating ideal picking conditions for visitors.

Spilmans grows eight varieties of strawberries across 12 acres, planted in approximately 500 rows. The farm’s planting programme includes early, mid-season and late varieties, ensuring fresh fruit remains available throughout the summer months.

Eight Strawberry Varieties Available Throughout Summer

Visitors can pick from a range of strawberry varieties, including:

• Allegro
• Verdi
• Falco
• Rumba
• Elegance
• Marieka
• Faith
• Malwina

All strawberries are grown outdoors on straw and are harvested at peak ripeness.

Pick-Your-Own Soft Fruits at Spilmans

Alongside strawberries, visitors can also enjoy a selection of other soft fruits. The farm has two acres dedicated to raspberries, blackberries and gooseberries, providing additional opportunities for seasonal fruit picking.

The variety of crops available allows guests to experience a wider range of fresh, locally grown produce throughout the summer season.

Picturesque Strawberry Fields and Family Attractions

The strawberry fields have become a popular destination for photography enthusiasts and visitors looking to capture summer memories. Several photo opportunities have been created throughout the site, including a traditional farm tractor display and a rustic heart-shaped feature wall.

Beyond the fruit fields, visitors can explore the farm’s wildflower meadow and follow the nature trail, where younger guests can complete clues and answer questions while learning more about the working farm environment.

Food, Drink and Indoor Activities

Guests can also visit the Stone Barn Café, which serves a range of food and refreshments throughout the day, including:

• Brunch dishes
• Lunch options
• Wood-fired pizzas
• Hot drinks
• Cold beverages

For families, Spilmans offers both indoor and outdoor entertainment. The indoor play barn includes pedal tractors, a ball pit and a sand play area, while outdoor attractions feature adventure play equipment and bouncing pillows.

Visitor Information and Ticket Prices

Pick-your-own strawberries are available from Wednesday to Sunday until the end of August.

Ticket prices start from £2.50 per person when booked online in advance, with discounted rates available for families and groups. While pre-booking is recommended, walk-in visitors may be admitted subject to availability.

Ticket costs are reimbursed against fruit purchases, with one ticket refunded for every £5 spent on fruit per person.

Plan a Visit to Spilmans This Summer

With strawberry picking, soft fruit harvesting, family-friendly activities, scenic photo opportunities and on-site dining, Spilmans offers a full summer day out in North Yorkshire.

For further information about opening times, tickets and seasonal updates, visitors can visit the Spilmans website or follow the farm on social media.