Where can you find the best strawberry picking near me in Ireland?
You can find strawberry picking in Ireland at several 'pick-your-own' farms, mainly during June and July. Popular spots include The Strawberry Farm in Meath and Lambert's Fruit Farm in Wexford. These farms allow you to pick fresh berries directly from the field, usually paying by weight for what you gather.
Top pick-your-own strawberry farms in Ireland
Short answer: Ireland has several dedicated pick-your-own (PYO) farms, with a strong concentration in the southeast. Key locations include farms in County Wexford, known for its strawberries, as well as spots in Meath and Tipperary.
Finding a great spot for strawberry picking is the first step to a perfect summer day out. While many farms exist, a few stand out for their quality, facilities, and overall experience. It's always a good idea to check their website or social media page before you visit, as opening times are heavily dependent on weather and how much fruit is ripe.
The Strawberry Farm, County Meath
Located near Navan, The Strawberry Farm is a popular choice for those in the Leinster area. They operate a straightforward PYO system where you grab a basket and head into the fields. Beyond strawberries, they often have raspberries, gooseberries, and new potatoes available for picking. The farm also has a small shop, a playground for children, and a coffee shop, making it a well-rounded family destination.
Lambert's Fruit Farm, County Wexford
Wexford is famous for its strawberries, and Lambert's is one of the county's best-known PYO spots. This family-run farm has been growing fruit for over 50 years. You can pick your own strawberries and raspberries here during the summer months. They provide containers, and you pay by the kilo for whatever you pick. It’s a very traditional farm experience focused purely on the quality of the fruit.
The Apple Farm, County Tipperary
While the name suggests apples, this farm near Cahir also offers PYO strawberries in early summer. It's a great option for anyone in Munster. The Apple Farm is known for its delicious apple juice and ciders, which you can buy at their farm shop. They also have a campsite, so you could even make a weekend trip out of it. Their strawberry season can be short, so checking in advance is essential.
Other notable PYO spots
Kearns Fruit Farm, also in County Wexford, is another excellent option that has been in operation since 1937. They offer a wide variety of berries and are a local favorite. Keep an eye out for smaller, local farms in your area that might not have a big online presence but offer a fantastic picking experience.
When is the best time to go strawberry picking?
Short answer: The Irish strawberry season typically runs from early June to late July. The best time to visit a farm is on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and get the best selection of ripe berries.
Most people think a sunny Saturday is the ideal time for strawberry picking, but that's when farms are busiest. Here's a tip: go on a slightly overcast weekday. You'll have the fields mostly to yourself, and the berries are often juicier after a light rain shower. Early in the day is always better, as the fields are picked over by the afternoon. The peak season is usually around the last two weeks of June, when the fruit is most abundant.
What to bring for a successful picking day
Short answer: Wear comfortable, old shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. You should also pack water, sunscreen, and cash, as some smaller farms may not accept cards.
What to wear in the fields
You'll be walking on uneven, and sometimes muddy, ground. Wellies or old trainers are a must. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Long sleeves and trousers can protect you from scratches and the sun, but on a hot day, shorts are fine. A hat is always a good idea to keep the sun off your face.
What to pack in your bag
Most farms provide picking containers, but it doesn't hurt to bring your own shallow boxes or trays to transport the delicate berries home without crushing them. Other essentials include:
- Sunscreen and a sun hat
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Cash for payment, just in case
- Wet wipes for sticky fingers
How to make the most of your strawberry haul
Short answer: Store unwashed strawberries in a single layer in the fridge and use them within two days. For longer storage, you can easily freeze them or make simple jams and desserts.
You've returned home with a kilo or two of beautiful red berries. What now? To keep them fresh, don't wash them until you're ready to eat. Moisture encourages mold. Place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray in the refrigerator. They'll last for a couple of days this way. If you have too many to eat, they are very easy to freeze. Just wash, hull (remove the green tops), pat them completely dry, and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| The strawberries are incredibly fresh and taste better. | It's a weather-dependent activity that can be cancelled. |
| It's a fun and memorable activity for families and kids. | Popular farms can get very crowded on weekends. |
| You support local Irish farmers directly. | It requires some physical effort like bending and walking. |
| You can choose the exact berries you want. | The fruit is highly perishable and must be used quickly. |
| It's often cheaper than buying pre-packaged berries. | The season is very short, lasting only a few weeks. |
Common strawberry picking mistakes to avoid
Short answer: The most common mistakes are picking unripe berries, crushing fruit in deep containers, and not checking if the farm is open before visiting. You should also wait to wash your berries until you're ready to eat them.
- Picking unripe berries. A common mistake is picking strawberries with white or green tips, thinking they'll ripen at home. They won't. A good rule of thumb is to look for berries that are fully red with no white or green spots near the stem.
- Overfilling your container. Piling strawberries high in a deep bucket will crush the ones at the bottom. It's better to use multiple shallow containers to keep the fruit in good condition for the journey home.
- Not checking the farm's status. Don't just assume a farm is open. Crop availability changes daily. Always call ahead or check the farm's social media page before you leave home to avoid a wasted trip.
- Washing your berries right away. It seems like a good idea, but washing strawberries before you store them makes them absorb water and spoil much faster. Only wash them just before you plan to eat them.
Alternatives to pick-your-own farms
Short answer: If you can't make it to a PYO farm, local farmers' markets, farm shops, and even growing your own are great alternatives for fresh strawberries.
While picking your own is a great experience, it's not always practical. Here are a few other ways to get your hands on fresh, local strawberries:
- Farmers' markets: These are excellent for finding just-picked strawberries from local growers without the time commitment of PYO. You can find information on nearby markets in our guide to farmers' markets.
- Farm shops: Many farms that offer PYO also have a shop on-site where you can buy pre-picked fruit. This is a good option if you're short on time or mobility.
- Growing your own: If you have a bit of garden space or even a large pot, growing your own strawberries is surprisingly easy. It gives you fresh berries right outside your door for several weeks.
Quick recap
- The Irish strawberry picking season is short, mainly happening in June and July.
- Popular farms are in Wexford, Meath, and Tipperary, but smaller local spots exist.
- Always check a farm's website or social media for opening times before you travel.
- For the best experience, go on an overcast weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Wear old, comfortable shoes and bring shallow containers to transport your berries home safely.
- Store your unwashed strawberries in the fridge and use them within two days for the best flavor.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to pick your own strawberries?
The cost varies by farm, but you typically pay by weight. Expect prices to be around 8 to 12 euros per kilogram. Some farms may have a small entry fee that is then deducted from the final cost of your picked fruit.
Can I bring my own containers?
Most farms provide their own baskets or punnets for picking. Some may allow you to bring your own, but it's best to check with the farm directly beforehand. It's always a good idea to bring your own shallow boxes or trays to safely transport the berries home from the car.
Are dogs allowed on strawberry farms?
In most cases, dogs are not allowed in the picking fields due to food hygiene regulations. Some farms may allow them in other areas, like car parks or cafes, but you should always confirm the farm's specific policy before bringing your pet along.
How do you freeze freshly picked strawberries?
First, gently wash and hull the strawberries. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel, as excess water causes ice crystals. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a few hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to go strawberry picking in Ireland?
A: The best time to go strawberry picking in Ireland is from early June to late July, ideally on a weekday morning. This period marks the peak season when berries are most abundant, especially during the last two weeks of June. Visiting on a weekday helps you avoid the large weekend crowds, giving you a better selection of ripe fruit. Farms are often picked over by the afternoon, so an early start ensures you get the best of the crop.
Where are the best places for strawberry picking near me in Ireland?
A: You can find excellent pick-your-own strawberry farms across Ireland, with a strong concentration of them in the southeast, particularly in County Wexford. Well-known spots include Lambert's Fruit Farm in Wexford and The Strawberry Farm in County Meath, which also has a playground and coffee shop. The Apple Farm in Tipperary is another great option that offers PYO strawberries in early summer. It is always best to check a farm's website or social media before visiting for current opening hours.
What should I wear for a day of picking strawberries?
A: You should wear comfortable, old shoes like wellies or trainers and dress in weather-appropriate layers. Since you will be walking on uneven and potentially muddy ground, sturdy footwear is essential for a comfortable day in the fields. A sun hat is always a good idea for protection from the sun. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust if the weather changes, and long sleeves can help protect your arms from scratches while reaching for berries.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when picking strawberries?
A: The most common mistakes are picking unripe berries, overfilling your container, and not checking if the farm is open before you go. Strawberries with white or green tips will not ripen after being picked, so you should only choose fully red ones. Piling fruit high in a deep bucket will crush the delicate berries at the bottom, so it is better to use shallow containers. Crop availability changes daily, so always confirm a farm's status online to avoid a wasted trip.