It’s no secret that here in Scotland we grow the best, juiciest and most delicious berries, and with summer school holidays in full flow, thoughts are on filling the long summer days.
So, for those looking for something a bit different we’ve picked out some of the top spots in Scotland to pick your own berries near you.
Scotland’s berries are among the best in the world and to recognise their quality and the joy they bring to Scottish consumers, this year Scotland Food & Drink is celebrating them and their growers through its Berries of Scotland campaign.
Grab a punnet, because these berries are ripe for the picking. Scottish strawberries are at their best between June-August and provide a great day out for families, and anyone looking for that picture perfect Instagram shot this summer.
Craigies Farm, Queensferry
Just 25-minutes from Edinburgh, Craigies Farm has something for everyone. Pick Your Own sessions are available all the way through to October and are wallet friendly from just £2.50 per person. For the days Scottish summer is less kind, little ones can enjoy a ‘Pick and Play’ session which combine indoor and outdoor play.
The family-run farm also has a cafe with fresh, delicious, seasonal produce ready to fuel you and your gang for a fruitful day of picking.
Advanced bookings are required. Open seven days a week, 9-5pm.
Borders Berries, The Borders
Strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants and tayberries -South Scotland’s largest pick your own berry farm is bursting with fruity goodness. With no entry fee, no parking charges and open seven days a week, this stunning spot is a blessing for anyone looking to entertain the kid’s mid-week during the summer holidays.
Still stuck for what to do next? Grab a bite to eat in the farm’s outdoor picnic area or check out the farm’s website for some recipes for jams, jellies, and even some cordials to make at home with your hand-picked haul (fruity cocktails for the adults, anyone?).
Open seven days a week 10 -7pm, £5 per kilo of fruit.
Wester Hardmuir, Highlands
Wester Hardmuir is an absolute must – located just outside Nairn, near Inverness and on the North Coast 500 route, it’s a perfect spot to stop off, stretch your legs, soak in the views and fill a punnet of colourful fruits including strawberries, raspberries, cherries and more.
Bring a blanket and feast on your finds on the farm grounds or grab a home-made berry ice-cream – it would be rude not to!
Open seven days a week 9-5pm.
Castleton Farm – Grampian
Just off the A90 near Laurencekirk, Castleton Farm is a countryside favourite known for its award-winning produce and homemade treats. In summer, their Cherry Tours invite visitors to explore the orchards at the height of the season, learning how the farm’s famous cherries are grown, harvested and enjoyed. The welcoming café serves up jam-packed traybakes, fresh bakes and hearty dishes made with produce straight from the farm.
Priced at £25pp, open seven days a week 10-4pm.
Charleton Farm, Angus
Just off the A92 outside Montrose in Angus, Charleton Farm is a family-run gem that’s perfect for a summer day out. Their ‘Pick your Own’ experience lets you wander through fields brimming with strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, tayberries available at the peak of each season. For the little ones, kids can burn off extra energy in the free farm playground featuring go‑karts, trampolines, a zip line and sandpits.
Pay-by-weight style, with no booking required.
Open seven days a week 10-4pm.
Carnie Fruit Farm, Cupar
Just a short drive from Edinburgh, nestled in the heart of Fife near Cupar, Cairnie Fruit Farm offers a fantastic all‑in‑one outing for families and friends. Their renowned ‘Pick your Own’ experience lets you stroll through 45 acres of top‑quality fruit (cherries, gooseberries, blackcurrants, brambles and even sunflowers), available daily throughout the summer with no booking required. Just grab a punnet and pick your own by weight.
Open seven days a week 9-4:30pm.
Amanda Brown, Programme Director at Scotland Food & Drink, said: “Nothing says summer more in Scotland than picking (and of course, eating) your own berries.
“In Scotland we’re blessed with some of the juiciest and tastiest berries anywhere in the world. Picking your own berries is a fantastic way to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays while also building a connection about where their food comes from.
“That, combined with giving the kids delicious and healthy berries to eat makes picking your own berries the perfect family activity.”
For more information and to download our map, please visit:
https://foodanddrink.scot/our-industry/naturally-scottish/berries-of-scotland/
