Nothing says British summer quite like a day spent fruit picking. Whether it's a punnet of sweet strawberries, a handful of tart gooseberries or juicy apples ripe for the picking, heading to a PYO (pick your own) fruit farm is a brilliant way to enjoy the outdoors, support local farmers and stock up on fresh, seasonal produce.
It's also a fun family activity that gets everyone moving - and munching! So grab a basket and check out our handy guide to fruit picking seasons in the UK, plus some of the best pick your own fruit farms near our holiday parks.
Top tip: Always check the farm's website or call ahead to see which crops are in season - availability depends on the weather.
Strawberries
Strawberries are the UK's most popular fruit to pick - and for good reason. They're sweet, juicy and grow low to the ground, making them perfect for little hands.
Season: May to September, peaking in June and July.
Top PYO Farm: The Balloon Tree, near York - Just a short drive from our Yorkshire holiday parks, this family-run farm offers strawberries, raspberries and more. Don't miss their café and farm shop!
Gooseberries
These zingy green berries are a bit of a hidden gem. Use them to make pies, jams or even wine.
Season: June and July.
Top PYO Farm: Ansty PYO & Farm Shop, Wiltshire - Close to our Dorset holiday parks, this sunny spot is perfect for gooseberries and other summer fruits.
Blackberries
While you can often find them in hedgerows, PYO farms offer bigger, juicier berries - without the brambles!
Season: Mid-July to September.
Top PYO Farm: Brocksbushes Farm, Northumberland - Near our North East holiday parks, this charming farm offers a wide range of fruit and a great farm shop.
Plums
Deliciously sweet and perfect for baking, plums are a summer staple that ripen fast, so don't hang about!
Season: Late July to August.
Top PYO Farm: Park Fruit Farm, Essex - Just a short drive from our Essex holiday parks like Highfield Grange, this well-established orchard offers a variety of PYO fruits including plums. Make sure to check their seasonal availability online.
Apples
Apple picking is a brilliant autumn activity - and there's something magical about wandering through rows of trees.
Season: Late August to October (varies by variety).
Top PYO Farm: Sandringham Orchard, Norfolk - Located near our Norfolk holiday parks, this royal orchard is open to the public for a short time each autumn. Don't miss their award-winning apple juice!
Raspberries
Sweet and delicate, raspberries are great for kids and grown-ups alike. Perfect for snacking or adding to desserts.
Season: Late June to early August.
Top PYO Farm: Cairnie Fruit Farm, Fife - If you're travelling through Scotland this summer, this family-friendly destination has raspberries, strawberries, blackcurrants and more, along with a play area and café.
Cherries
Cherries can be a bit harder to find, but they're well worth the hunt for their juicy sweetness.
Season: Mid-June to late July.
Top PYO Farm: Lower Ladysden Farm, Kent - The perfect place to stock up on your way to our holiday parks in Kent and Sussex, this scenic spot is known for its cherry orchards and excellent coffee shop.
Pumpkins
Autumn isn't just for apples! Pumpkin picking has become a seasonal favourite, especially around Halloween.
Season: October.
Top PYO Farm: Cowbridge Farm, Wales - A must-visit in October and just 20 minutes' drive from Trecco Bay Holiday Park, Cowbridge offers PYO pumpkins galore, alongside a well-stocked farm shop full of tasty treats.
Tips for your visit
- Check what's in season: Visit the farm's website or social media pages before you go
- Dress appropriately: Fields can be muddy! Wear boots or trainers
- Bring containers (if allowed): Some farms offer discounts if you bring your own
- Start early: The best fruit is picked early in the day
- Pack snacks and water: Especially if you're with little ones
What to make with your picked fruit
Once you've stocked up following your PYO haul, you might be wondering what to do with all of that fruit! Here are some ideas. Don't forget, plenty of fruit can be frozen, preserved or canned too, so it doesn't need to go to waste.
Fruit picking FAQs
When is fruit picking season in the UK?
Fruit picking typically begins in May and runs through to October, depending on the crop and weather. Strawberries are first, followed by gooseberries, blackberries, plums and apples.
What fruit can I pick in the UK?
Popular options include strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, blackberries, plums, apples, cherries, and sometimes pumpkins in the autumn.
Is fruit picking suitable for children?
Absolutely! It's a fun, educational outdoor activity for kids - just bring sun cream, hats, and maybe a change of clothes.
Do I need to bring my own container?
Most farms provide punnets or baskets, but check ahead just in case. Some even offer discounts if you bring your own!
Got a favourite PYO fruit farm? Let us know on our Facebook page or tag us in your adventures on TikTok and share your day on the farm.