The Thorogood family has been farming at New Moor Farm for over 50 years - originally growing vegetables to supply the London fresh produce markets, then moving to conventional arable farming before Geoff Thorogood and his son Pip planted the first asparagus bed in the late 1980s. It proved to be exactly the right call. The Essex coastal climate allows for optimal growing conditions, concentrating flavour and creating that perfect balance of sweetness and grassy notes that is so characteristic of premium British asparagus. Mark Thorogood, the third generation, now runs the farm and has taken its regenerative credentials seriously. The asparagus beds are managed with no-till techniques to protect soil structure; wider rows are planted with clover, grasses and wildflowers to create habitats for pollinators and beneficial insects; clover fixes nitrogen naturally, reducing chemical fertiliser use; electric harvesting platforms lower the farm's carbon footprint; all waste including asparagus offcuts is composted and returned to the soil; and solar panels and water recycling systems run the packhouse. Throughout the season the asparagus beds are picked daily and the shop in the packhouse is open seven days a week. Each weekend during the season, Mark travels up to London to sell at the farmers markets at Pimlico, South Kensington and Alexandra Palace. The asparagus that arrives at those markets was in the field the day before.

Awards and Recognition

Thorogood asparagus is supplied to restaurants and food buyers including London's top chefs, and has been featured by Covent Garden Market Authority for its commitment to regenerative farming.

Social Media

https://www.facebook.com/ThorogoodsAsparagus

Can people visit or buy direct?

Their packing house farm shop is open seven days a week throughout the season (approximately mid to end of April to end of June). (Please check their Facebook page for latest opening days and times). Their asparagus is also available at London Farmers Markets at Pimlico, South Kensington and Alexandra Palace every weekend during the season.

Website

https://thorogoodasparagus.co.uk

Address Summary

New Moor Farm, Tillingham Road, Southminster, Essex, CM0 7DS