© Jill Wellington
Shopping locally has been at the forefront of our minds throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and hopefully for long after. Supporting local farmers is not only important for uplifting our local economy, but it’s also a more sustainable option for our planet.
As the seasons change, it’s easier than ever to support produce farmers by enjoying a family trip to an apple orchard! Plan an autumn adventure this season to one of Ontario’s pick-your-own apple farms.
Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm
9528 Regional Road 25, Halton Hills
For more than 50 years, Chudleigh’s Entertainment Farm has been an annual tradition for families. Owned and operated by the Chudleigh family, the farm grows more than 20 varieties of apples that are delicious and ready to pick throughout September and October. Enjoy a tractor wagon ride through the orchard, and at the end of your trip, visit the Farm Kitchen and Cafe to experience Chudleigh’s famous Apple Blossoms. Book your tickets and plan your trip at chudleighs.com
Brantwood Farm
251 Powerline Road, Brantford
Since 1891, the Pate family has lived in and operated a farm in Brantford. The family-run farm offers rhubarbs, strawberries, sweet corn, pumpkins, and last but not least, apples. The family aims to bring the best locally produced fruits, vegetables, and goods to the Brantford community. In their store, what they don’t grow from themselves, they source from other local farmers. Learn more at brantwoodfarms.com
Fletcher Fruit Farms
1040 Fletcher Road, Hannon
Brenda and Kevin Fletcher are the fourth generation to operate family-run Fletcher Fruit Farms, having it been in the family for 150 years. Across the farm’s 83 acres, families can pick from more than 20 apple varieties! The family is available on-site to answer any questions about their growing processes, or for which apples to pick for the best pie. Visit fletcherfruitfarms.ca for more information.
Pine Farms Orchard
2700 16th Sideroad, King City
The Rolph family sees their farm as not only a family business but a family tradition. In 1942, Ernie and Mary Rolph purchased 100 acres of farmland in King City, and in the late 40’s they began growing their own apples. Now run by their granddaughter Pam, her husband Elliott and their daughter Chloe and her husband Robin it is truly a family run business! The farm offers pick-your-own apples, a country market, prepared foods, bakeshop, and much more! For more information, visit pinefarmsorchard.com
Downey’s Strawberry and Apple Farm
13707 Heart Lake Road, Caledon
Dedicated to modern and environmentally-friendly growing practices, Downey’s Apple Farm focuses on growing delicious apples, strawberries, and raspberries! The current farmer, Greg Downey, is a third-generation Downey operating Downey’s Strawberry and Apple Farm. Greg also grows the crops for his parent’s entertainment farm, Downey’s Farm Market and Winery, across the street from the apple farm. The Downey farm has fresh pick-your-own apples and fun for the whole family! Plan your visit at downeysupickfarm.ca
An apple a day
Apple picking is more than just a fun family trip, but beneficial for your health. Apples are known to improve gut health, reduce the risk of stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and more.
One apple contains 4.4 grams of fiber, which is 16 percent of the daily value! This fall, enjoy some family fun, support local and improve your health with a trip to an apple orchard.
