The Full Story Behind Why This Pickering Farm Shop Shortlisted in Northern Farmer Awards Is Such a Big Deal

There’s a bit of a buzz happening in North Yorkshire, and it’s all centred around a fantastic spot in Pickering. If you’ve ever stopped by a local farm shop for a proper pork pie or some freshly picked veg, you’ll know they’re special places. Well, it turns out some are so special they get nominated for big awards.

The team at Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café are celebrating right now, having made it to the finals of a major regional farming award. It’s a huge nod to their hard work and a reminder of the brilliant food scene right on the doorstep.

So, what’s all the fuss about?

The team at Cedarbarn are officially finalists in the Northern Farmer Awards, which is a pretty big deal in the world of farming. They’ve been shortlisted for the Food Retailer/Producer of the Year Award. In simple terms, this award is all about celebrating the absolute best of the best when it comes to local food. It’s for the growers, the makers, and the sellers, the people who bring the county’s finest produce to our tables.

Think of it as the Oscars for farmers and farm shops. These awards are a chance to give a massive pat on the back to the farmers who work all hours to make sure the nation is fed with quality food. Being a finalist means Cedarbarn is recognised as one of the top spots in the north for delicious, locally sourced grub. The awards are organised by the Northern Farmer magazine, a publication that knows a thing or two about the industry, which makes the nomination even more impressive. The whole point of these awards is to celebrate the tireless work that often goes on behind the scenes in farming.

From a tiny caravan to a top attraction

Every great place has a story, and Cedarbarn’s is a cracker. It didn’t start as the bustling place it is today. Back in 1995, it was just a small caravan selling PYO strawberries. Imagine that, pulling up to a field, grabbing a punnet, and picking your own dessert. It’s a simple idea, but it’s one that clearly caught on. From those humble beginnings, it has grown into a thriving attraction. Now, it’s not just a farm shop, but a whole experience.

There’s the award-winning café, the shop packed with local goodies, and even a miniature railway, which is a massive hit with visitors of all ages. They also host all sorts of events throughout the year, making it a real community hub. It’s a classic example of how a small idea, rooted in good quality and hard work, can blossom into something truly special. The journey from a strawberry caravan to a thriving attraction shortlisted for major farming awards is a testament to the team's dedication.

Farming in the family

What makes this story even better is the history behind it. This isn't just a business; it’s a family legacy. Co-founder Karl Avison has farming in his blood. His family has been working the land around Pickering for four generations. That’s a lot of harvests and a whole load of experience passed down through the years. It’s this deep connection to the land and to farming that shines through in everything they do at the farm shop.

When asked about the nomination, Karl Avison was clearly chuffed. He said: “We have farmed in the Pickering area for four generations and are very proud and honoured to have won a place in the final of this prestigious farming award. We are looking forward to celebrating the best of the north’s farming businesses at the awards dinner next month.” His words show just how much this recognition means, not just for the business today, but for the generations of farming that came before. It’s a celebration of family, heritage, and the enduring importance of local farmers.

All eyes on the big night

So, what happens next? The team will be dusting off their best outfits for the big awards ceremony. They’ll find out if they’ve won at a special event held at The Pavilions in Harrogate on 19th February. It’s sure to be a night of celebration for the entire northern farming community, bringing together the brilliant people who keep our fridges stocked. It’s also worth mentioning that the Northern Farmer Awards has a charity partner, The Farming Community Network.

This is a fantastic organisation that provides practical and pastoral support to farmers and their families during difficult times. So, while the awards are a celebration, they also highlight a very important cause. Everyone will be wishing the team from Pickering the very best of luck. No matter what happens on the night, getting to the final of the Food Retailer/Producer of the Year Award is a massive achievement for Cedarbarn and a well-deserved recognition for a business that started with PYO strawberries and grew into a fantastic North Yorkshire thriving attraction, a brilliant farm shop and a hub for exciting events.