Van Reeuwijk Fruit & Flowers is a family-run farm and garden in Abbenes, where visitors can pick their own fruit and vegetables. The self-picking season generally runs from approximately June through September, with the 2026 season starting around June. Guests receive a picking basket and instructions at the shop before heading into the fields and greenhouses. Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blackcurrants, blueberries, gooseberries, plums, red and white currants, and cherries are available for picking, as are green beans, broad beans, bell peppers, string beans, beets, zucchini, tomatoes, cucumbers, and butternut squash. Picking availability varies by month: strawberries from end of May to early October; raspberries from early July to late August; blackberries from end of July to early September; cherries from end of June to early August; gooseberries and blueberries from July to August; blackcurrants and red/white currants from June to July; plums from end of July to early August; green beans and courgettes from July to August; broad beans in June; bell peppers, string beans, and beets in August; tomatoes and cucumbers from end of June to September; and butternut squash from end of August as long as supplies last. Due to weather and natural growing cycles, specific daily availability can change, so checking for updates before visiting is recommended. No reservations are needed for picking.
The farm is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the picking garden closing at 4:00 PM and the coffee corner at 4:30 PM. The farm is closed on Sundays. A terrace and a covered indoor area are available year-round for coffee, tea, juice, homemade strawberry cake, other pastries, and ice cream made from the farm’s own fruit. A shop sells fresh flowers, plants, homemade jams, dessert sauces, fruit juice, honey, and gift packages. The farm is wheelchair accessible, with a disabled-friendly toilet and paved main paths, though side paths remain grass. There is a children’s play area with a sandbox and a changing table. Parking and entrance are free, and debit card payments are accepted.
What visitors say
This self-picking farm provides a popular and engaging outing for families and individuals alike, offering the chance to harvest a variety of seasonal fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, cherries, blueberries, and plums, along with some vegetables and flowers. Visitors frequently praise the freshness, quality, and often organic nature of the produce, noting the large, sweet berries and beautiful, long-lasting flowers. The experience is often highlighted as educational for children, connecting them directly with the source of their food.
The farm extends its appeal with a welcoming shop, stocking an array of pre-picked fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and juices, and a selection of distinctive flowers and plants. A cozy cafe, complete with indoor and outdoor seating (including a heated conservatory), invites guests to relax with excellent coffee, delightful homemade cakes, and delicious ice cream. Additional amenities include ample free parking and a designated sandpit, making it particularly attractive for those with young children. Most visitors commend the friendly and helpful staff, and many describe the overall atmosphere as pleasant, relaxed, and great for a day out.
However, the experience is not without its occasional drawbacks. Some visitors have expressed frustration over strict rules, particularly a “no tasting” policy during picking, which has been perceived as unwelcoming and has led to disappointment when purchased fruit, such as seemingly ripe strawberries or cherries, proved to be unripe or tasteless. Instances of initial poor handling of such complaints by staff have also been noted. Other minor concerns include paths becoming muddy, the potential for bee stings, and the farm’s popularity sometimes leading to overcrowding or the quick depletion of popular fruits, necessitating early arrival or checking social media for daily picking availability. Despite these few areas for improvement, the farm is widely celebrated as a lively and enjoyable destination.