The Spilman family has been growing asparagus at Lodge Farm, Helperby in North Yorkshire for over 15 years and it has become one of the most admired asparagus operations in the north of England. They grow across 35 acres of sandy soil in three varieties: Gijnlim, Aspalim and Javelim. Everything is planted by hand, picked by hand and carried in baskets straight to the packhouse where it is washed, trimmed, graded and bundled the same day. The season runs from early April to mid June. As Tom Spilman puts it: "We grow what top chefs want - a good thick spear that tastes good." The asparagus is sold direct in 400g bundles from Lodge Farm, Helperby and is supplied to top Yorkshire restaurants, hotels and wholesalers including Covent Garden market. Richard and Sally Spilman started the farm and now sons Tom and Joss and daughter-in-law Olivia run a 700-acre operation across two sites. At Church Farm, Sessay, there is a farm shop stocking seasonal produce, local jams, honey, meats and baked goods; a Stone Barn Café open in summer (June to August) and during pumpkin season; a play barn; and seasonal PYO soft fruits and a pumpkin festival. Lambing at Spilmans runs in February half-term.

Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/spilman_farming/ https://www.facebook.com/SpilmanFarming

Can people visit or buy direct?

Yes, asparagus is sold direct in 400g bundles from Lodge Farm, Helperby throughout the season (April to mid June), and at the farm shop at Church Farm, Sessay. PYO soft fruits and seasonal events are at Church Farm (Wed to Sun 10am–5.30pm, last entry 4pm during PYO season).

Website

https://www.spilmans.co.uk

Address Summary

Church Farm, Sessay, Thirsk, YO7 3NB