Top 10 Best Farming Companies in Spelthorne

Farming in and Around Spelthorne

Spelthorne is one of Surrey's more urban boroughs, yet farming and green space remain an important part of its identity. Staines Moor is common land where grazing has continued for centuries, and the Thames floodplain around Laleham and Shepperton once supported market gardens that supplied London with fresh produce. Today, residents enjoy easy access to farm shops, pick-your-own farms and veg box schemes across the wider area.

This guide highlights ten farming companies serving Spelthorne, from local pick-your-own favourites to national growers and agricultural businesses. Each offers quality produce and a commitment to good farming practice.

The Top 10 Farming Companies

1. Crockford Bridge Farm

Crockford Bridge Farm near Addlestone is a much-loved farm shop and pick-your-own farm just a short drive from Spelthorne. Families visit to pick strawberries, raspberries and seasonal vegetables. Its farm shop, cafe and seasonal events, including pumpkin picking, make it a local favourite.

2. Garsons

Garsons in Esher is a family-owned farm offering one of the largest pick-your-own operations in the country. It also has a farm shop, garden centre and restaurant. Spelthorne residents enjoy its wide variety of fruit and vegetables throughout the growing season.

3. Secretts

Secretts in Milford is a long-established Surrey farm known for its farm shop, pick-your-own and quality produce. The family has farmed for generations, including a history of market gardening. Its fresh vegetables and flowers attract visitors from across the county.

4. Hall Hunter Partnership

Hall Hunter Partnership is a major soft fruit grower in Surrey and Berkshire, supplying berries to leading supermarkets. It is known for innovation in growing techniques and extended seasons. Much of the British fruit sold in local shops may come from growers like Hall Hunter.

5. Riverford

Riverford is an employee-owned organic farm delivering veg boxes across the UK. Spelthorne households receive fresh seasonal vegetables, fruit and recipes to their doors. Its commitment to organic farming and fair treatment of growers has built a loyal following.

6. Abel and Cole

Abel and Cole delivers organic fruit, vegetables and groceries, sourcing from British farms wherever possible. It is popular with households wanting seasonal, sustainable food. Its flexible subscriptions and plastic reduction initiatives appeal to eco-conscious customers.

7. G's Growers

G's Growers is one of Europe's largest salad and vegetable producers, supplying lettuce, celery and radishes to supermarkets. It combines family farming values with modern agricultural technology. Its produce is found in many local stores.

8. Arla Foods UK

Arla Foods UK is a farmer-owned dairy cooperative producing milk, butter and cheese. Its products are sold in supermarkets and convenience stores across Spelthorne. Arla supports farmers through sustainability programmes and animal welfare standards.

9. Frontier Agriculture

Frontier Agriculture is a leading crop production and grain marketing business. It supplies seed, crop protection and agronomy advice to farmers. Its expertise supports arable farming across southern England.

10. Openfield

Openfield is a farmer-owned grain cooperative helping growers market their crops and access inputs. It connects farmers with millers, maltsters and processors. Its cooperative model gives farmers greater control over their businesses.

Trends in Farming

Regenerative agriculture is gaining momentum, with farmers focusing on soil health, biodiversity and carbon sequestration. Precision farming technology, including drones, sensors and data analysis, helps optimise inputs and yields. Consumers increasingly want local, seasonal and sustainably produced food.

Agritourism is also growing. Pick-your-own farms, farm cafes and seasonal events give urban families a connection to farming. For areas like Spelthorne, these experiences provide valuable access to the countryside.

Supporting Local Farming

Residents can support farming by buying from farm shops, subscribing to veg boxes and choosing British produce in supermarkets. Businesses such as restaurants can build relationships with local growers to create seasonal menus. Visiting pick-your-own farms is a fun way to learn where food comes from.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is pick-your-own season near Spelthorne? Pick-your-own season usually starts with strawberries in late spring or early summer and continues through raspberries, currants, beans and sweetcorn, ending with pumpkins in October. Farms such as Crockford Bridge Farm and Garsons publish crop updates throughout the season.

Is there any working farmland in Spelthorne itself? Yes, although it is limited. Staines Moor is common land with traditional grazing rights, and small areas of farmland and horse paddocks remain around Laleham, Shepperton and Stanwell Moor. Much of the rest of the borough is urban or occupied by reservoirs.

Are veg box schemes good value? Veg boxes often compare well with supermarket organic prices and reduce food waste through seasonal planning. They also support farmers directly and cut down on plastic packaging.

How can schools get involved? Many farms offer educational visits, helping children in Spelthorne understand where food comes from.

Final Thoughts

While Spelthorne is largely urban, its farming heritage lives on through common land, nearby farms and dedicated food businesses. These ten farming companies bring fresh, quality produce to local tables. Opening times and seasonal offerings vary, so check current details before visiting or ordering.