Pickering Farm Shop Wins Regional Farming Award: A Look at Cedarbarn's Journey to the Top

It’s always brilliant news when a local spot gets the recognition it deserves, and the team at a certain North Yorkshire farm shop have a massive reason to celebrate. The fantastic Cedarbarn Farm Shop and Café, just outside Pickering, has scooped up a major regional award, proving once again that Yorkshire is home to some of the best food producers in the country. They’ve managed to bag a top prize at the Northern Farmer Awards, which is a seriously big deal in the farming world.

A big win for a local favourite

On Thursday, 26th February 2026, at a swanky awards dinner in Harrogate, the Cedarbarn team were crowned the winners of the Food Retailer/Producer of the Year award. This is one of the most sought-after categories in the Northern Farmer Awards, as it celebrates the very best of the county's food scene. Think of all the amazing farm shops, growers, and food makers out there – this award puts the winner right at the top of the list. The competition was tough, too. To win the award, Cedarbarn had to beat two other fantastic businesses, Hutchinson Hobbs and Knitsley Farm Shop, which makes the victory even sweeter. It’s a huge testament to the hard work the team puts in every single day. This regional award isn’t just a win for the business; it’s a brilliant moment for Pickering and the whole of North Yorkshire.

Over the moon about the award

As you can imagine, the team was absolutely buzzing. Co-founder Mandy Avison put it perfectly: “We were delighted to be shortlisted for this prestigious farming award, but to win it is amazing! We’re over the moon!” And who can blame them? Winning an award like this is a massive pat on the back. It’s recognition from industry experts that what they’re doing is special. For a family-run farm shop, it’s proof that all the early mornings, long hours, and dedication to quality have paid off. This kind of regional award can put a place on the map, bringing in new visitors who are keen to see what all the fuss is about. For Mandy Avison and the team, this Food Retailer/Producer of the Year title is more than just a trophy for the shelf; it’s a celebration of their passion for great local food. The entire Cedarbarn team is celebrating this fantastic achievement.

From a caravan to a top attraction

The story of Cedarbarn is a proper fairy tale of hard work. It didn't start as the bustling place it is today. Actually, it all began back in 1995 from something much smaller: a caravan selling PYO strawberries at the side of the road. It’s pretty amazing to think about, isn't it? From those humble beginnings, it has blossomed into one of North Yorkshire's must-visit destinations. Now, Cedarbarn is a thriving attraction with a fantastic farm shop packed with local goodies, a lovely café serving up delicious meals, and even a miniature railway that’s a huge hit with families. They also host all sorts of events throughout the year, making it a real community hub. The journey from a simple Pick-Your-Own operation to an award-winning business with so much to offer shows what’s possible with a great idea and a lot of passion. It’s a true local success story from the heart of Pickering.

What are the Northern Farmer Awards?

So, what makes the Northern Farmer Awards so special? Well, they’re organised by the Northern Farmer magazine, and their main job is to cheer on the people who keep the nation fed. Farming can be a tough and often thankless job, so these awards are all about celebrating the brilliant farmers and producers who work tirelessly all year round. It’s their moment in the spotlight. What’s even better is that the awards also support a great cause. This year’s charity partner was The Farming Community Network. This amazing organisation offers a helping hand to farmers and their families, providing support during difficult times. So, by celebrating the best in the business, the Northern Farmer Awards also give back to the community they represent. Winning a regional award from such a respected organisation makes Cedarbarn's achievement as the Food Retailer/Producer of the Year even more meaningful.