Where can you go strawberry picking near Dublin?

The best place for strawberry picking near Dublin is typically Lambert’s Fruit Farm in County Meath, about a 40-minute drive from the city. The Irish strawberry season runs from June to early August. Always check the farm's social media or call ahead before visiting, as fruit availability changes daily.

The best farms for picking strawberries near Dublin

Short answer: Your main destination is Lambert's Fruit Farm in Meath, as dedicated Pick-Your-Own (PYO) farms are rare close to Dublin. It's best to confirm their opening status for the season before you travel.

Finding a true PYO farm right on Dublin's doorstep can be tricky. Many farms that once offered it have shifted their business model. For a reliable and enjoyable day out, you'll likely need to take a short drive out of the county.

Lambert's Fruit Farm, County Meath

This is the go-to spot for most Dubliners. Located near Slane in County Meath, the drive usually takes between 40 to 60 minutes depending on your starting point in Dublin. Lambert's is a traditional farm that opens its fields for PYO strawberries during the summer months. They often have other soft fruits available too, like raspberries and gooseberries.

The farm operates on a simple system: you're given a container (or you can bring your own, but check their policy first) and you pay by weight for what you pick. It's a great activity for kids, but be prepared for a bit of a crowd, especially on sunny weekend afternoons.

Other potential PYO locations

PYO availability can change year to year. Some smaller farms or garden centres occasionally offer it, but they don't always advertise widely. It's a good idea to search local community groups or farmers' market listings as the season approaches. Sometimes a farm might have a bumper crop and open for PYO for a limited time. Traveling a bit further, perhaps over an hour, might lead you to a quieter farm with more fruit, so it can be worth the extra time in the car if you want to avoid the main rush.

When is the best time to go strawberry picking?

Short answer: The Irish strawberry season generally runs from early June through to early August. For the best experience, go on a weekday morning to find the most fruit and the smallest crowds.

Understanding the Irish strawberry season

Strawberries need sunshine, so the exact start and end of the picking season can shift depending on the weather in spring and early summer. A cool, wet May might delay the season by a week or two. In most years, you can count on good availability from mid-June to late July. Some farms have polytunnels which can extend the season slightly, but the main outdoor crop is a summer-only affair.

Choosing the best day and time

Weekends are naturally the busiest time. If you can manage a trip on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning, you'll have a much more relaxed time. The fields are often picked heavily on weekends, so an early week visit gives the fruit a chance to ripen and the fields to be restocked. If you must go on a weekend, aim to arrive right when they open. The best and biggest strawberries are always found first.

How to plan your strawberry picking trip

Short answer: Check the farm's social media for daily updates before you leave, wear comfortable shoes you don't mind getting muddy, and bring sun protection. Expect to pay by weight for what you pick.

What to wear and bring

You'll be walking in fields, so practical footwear is a must. Wellies are a great idea if it has rained recently, otherwise, old trainers are fine. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Don't forget sun hats and sun cream for everyone, especially the kids who will be focused on the berries, not the sun. Some people like to bring their own shallow containers to avoid bruising the delicate fruit.

How much does it cost?

Most PYO farms charge by the kilogram. There might be a small entry fee that is then deducted from the final cost of your fruit. As of recent seasons, prices are typically around €8 to €12 per kilogram. A family can easily pick 2-3 kilograms in a short amount of time, so it's a good idea to set a budget before you start filling your punnets.

Tips for picking the best strawberries

Look for strawberries that are fully red. A white or green tip means it's not quite ripe. Part the leaves gently to find hidden gems that others might have missed. To pick, hold the stem just above the berry and twist gently. Don't just pull the fruit, as this can damage the plant. It's better to leave the small green stalk (the calyx) on the strawberry, as it helps the berry stay fresh for longer.

Here's a good rule of thumb: always check the farm's Facebook page on the morning you plan to go. They'll post updates on fruit availability, which can save you a wasted trip.

What to do with all your strawberries

Short answer: Besides eating them fresh, you can easily freeze strawberries for smoothies, make a quick jam, or use them in simple desserts like a fruit tart or Eton mess.

It's easy to get carried away and come home with several kilograms of strawberries. After you've had your fill of fresh berries with cream, you'll need a plan for the rest. Strawberries are best used within a day or two. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wash and dry them, remove the green tops, and lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They're perfect for smoothies or baking later on. Making a simple strawberry jam is another great way to preserve your haul and only requires strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

Pro	Con
You get incredibly fresh, flavourful fruit.	It's entirely weather-dependent.
It's a fun outdoor activity for the whole family.	Popular farms can get very crowded on weekends.
It teaches children where their food comes from.	You need a car to get to most PYO farms from Dublin.
You can pick the exact ripeness you prefer.	The season is very short, only lasting a few weeks.
It can be cheaper than buying the same quantity of high-quality berries in a shop.	You might end up with more fruit than you know what to do with.

Common mistakes to avoid when strawberry picking

• Not checking before you go: Fruit availability changes daily. A farm can be "picked out" after a busy weekend. Always check their website or social media on the day of your visit.
• Wearing the wrong shoes: Farm fields can be muddy and uneven. Leave the sandals at home and opt for wellies or old trainers for a comfortable experience.
• Overfilling your container: Piling strawberries high in a deep bucket will crush the delicate ones at the bottom. It's better to use several shallow containers.
• Pulling the fruit off the plant: Yanking the berries can damage the plant for future pickers. Gently twist the stem or use your thumbnail to pinch it off.
• Forgetting sun protection: It's easy to lose track of time in the field. Make sure everyone has a hat and sun cream on, even if the day starts out cloudy.

Alternatives to strawberry picking

Short answer: If the strawberry season is over or you want a different experience, consider apple picking in the autumn, visiting a farm with animals, or exploring a large farmers' market.

If you miss the short strawberry season, don't worry. Many farms offer other activities. Later in the year, around September and October, you can find apple picking opportunities. This is another great family day trip and the season lasts much longer. For a year-round option, consider visiting one of the many open farms around Dublin that have playgrounds and animals. Places like Newbridge House and Farm or Airfield Estate offer a fantastic farm experience without the specific task of picking fruit.

Quick recap

• The main spot for strawberry picking near Dublin is Lambert's Fruit Farm in County Meath.
• The season is short, typically running from June to early August.
• Always check the farm's social media for daily updates before you travel.
• Go early on a weekday for the best selection and fewest crowds.
• Wear practical shoes and sun protection.
• Plan what you'll do with your strawberries, such as freezing them or making jam.

When can you pick strawberries in Ireland?

The main season for picking strawberries in Ireland is during the summer, usually starting in early June and lasting until early August. The exact timing can vary slightly each year based on the weather.

How much does it cost to pick your own strawberries?

You typically pay by weight for the strawberries you pick. Prices can vary but are often around €8 to €12 per kilogram. Some farms may have a minimum charge or a small entry fee.

What should I wear for strawberry picking?

Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy, closed-toe shoes like trainers or wellies, as fields can be muddy. It's also a good idea to bring a hat, sun cream, and a rain jacket, as Irish weather is unpredictable.

Do I need to book in advance for strawberry picking?

In most cases, you don't need to book in advance for strawberry picking. However, it's always best to check the farm's website or social media before you go, as some may introduce booking systems during very busy periods.