Throwing all the kids in the car and heading off fruit picking is a great activity that the whole family can enjoy! It’s a great way to show kids where their fruit comes from while also being out in the sunshine and fresh air. We’re lucky here in the Hills to have fabulous farms right on our doorstep – as we all know, with young kids there’s no such thing as enjoying a long, leisurely drive!
Here are our tips for places to visit this Spring. Most places charge a price for for what you pick. Also, things change due to seasons and weather, so make sure you check the farm’s website or Facebook page for opening times before you set off. And don’t forget to take your own bags.
Mandarins & oranges
Mandarin picking is VERY popular! The season kicks off June but usually continues through to September.
Anderson Farm
Address: 951 to 968 Sackville Ferry Rd, Sackville North
Open: At this stage open throughout September.
Website: Click here.
Other fruit available: Oranges, until December.
See also Canoelands Orchard below for another mandarin option early Spring.
Nectarines, peaches, plums
Canoelands Orchard is our pick (’scuse the pun!) for a fun family day out in the Hills. This family-owned orchard has been part of the Canoelands community for generations and is best known for its delicious seasonal stone fruit.
Depending on the time of year, you may find nectarines, peaches, plums, mandarins and other fresh produce growing at the orchard. During picking season, you can get out into the orchard and pick your own fruit, making it a fun experience for kids as well as a great way to stock up on fresh local produce.
There’s more to do than just picking fruit, too. Families can explore the property, meet the farm animals, enjoy the open space and you might even get a tractor ride!. There are also areas for little ones to play and plenty of room to bring a picnic and make a day of it.
Pick-your-own fruit is seasonal, with stone fruit generally available from late spring through summer, but dates and availability can vary from year to year. It’s a good idea to check Canoelands Orchard’s Facebook page before heading out to see what’s currently available and confirm opening times.
Address: 27 Canoelands Road, Canoelands, NSW
Open: Saturday and Sunday. Check website for times. Or weekday by booking.
Website: canoelandsorchard.com.au or Facebook
Other locations:
Bilpin Fruit Bowl – Peaches
Address: 2093 Bells Line of Road, Bilpin
Open: 7 days a week from 8.00 am till 5.30 pm. Peaches start late November.
Website: bilpinfruitbowl.com.au or Facebook
Cedar Creek Orchard
Address: 269 Mullhollands Road, Thirlmere
Open: Saturday and Sunday. Check website for times
Website: cedarcreekorchards.com.au
Other fruit available: Peaches and Nectarines (from late November).