Forget Diddly Squat: Essex Farm Shops That Actually Beat Clarkson
Five Essex Farm Shops That Rival the Celebrity-Famous Diddly Squat
Introduction: More Than Just a TV Show Farm
You might have heard of Diddly Squat Farm Shop—the one made famous by Jeremy Clarkson on TV. It’s busy, loud, and packed with tourists. But guess what? Essex has five amazing farm shops that are just as good (or even better!) for a fun family day out. They’re full of fresh food, friendly faces, and real countryside charm—no cameras required.
Let’s take a tour!
1. Barleylands Farm Shop, Billericay
Think of it like a giant countryside supermarket with a playground attached.
- What you’ll find: Fresh fruit, veg, homemade cakes, and lots of local goodies.
- Extra fun: It’s right next to Barleylands Farm Park—so kids can see animals, ride tractors, and play indoors.
- Vibe: Garden-center meets farm shop. Big, bright, and easy to walk around.
- Rating: 4.5 stars from over 1,500 Google reviews—people love it!
2. Lathcoats Farm, Great Baddow
Pick your own strawberries? Yes, please!
- What you’ll find: A farm shop, a cozy café, and pick-your-own fields (seasonal).
- Crops you can pick: Apples , strawberries , plums , and more depending on the time of year.
- Perfect for: Families who want to make a half-day adventure out of shopping.
- Rating: 4.6 stars from over 1,600 reviews—a top pick near Chelmsford.
3. Calcott Hall Farm Shop, Brentwood
Old wooden beams, smell of fresh bread, and a café to stay awhile.
- What you’ll find: Locally grown fruit & veg, local meat, and freshly baked cakes.
- Building: A gorgeous wood-beamed barn—feels like stepping back in time.
- Stay longer: On-site café means you can sip tea and eat scones after shopping.
- Rating: 4.6 stars from over 1,100 reviewers—a beloved local gem.
4. Manor Farm Shop, Great Baddow
The "secret ingredient" shop—where foodies go for weird and wonderful veg.
- What you’ll find: Huge variety of fresh produce, including unusual vegetables you won’t see in supermarkets.
- Also: Fresh and frozen foods, quality ingredients for cooking.
- Location: On Maldon Road, just outside Chelmsford—easy to pop in.
- Rating: 4.7 stars from 436 reviews—smaller crowd, but super loyal fans.
5. Upson’s Farm Sales, Hatfield Peverel
Tiny but mighty. Honest food, straight from the farm.
- What you’ll find: A smaller shop at Ivy Barns Farm with a focus on local, direct-from-farmer produce.
- Standout item: Fresh eggs—reviewers rave about them!
- No frills, just quality: No celebrity hype, just real farm-to-table goodness.
- Rating: 4.8 stars from 73 reviews—small number, but near-perfect score.
> Important Points to Remember
- All five are real working farms or farm shops—not just gift shops.
- Ratings are from real Google reviews (hundreds to thousands of them).
- Each offers something different: pick-your-own, cafés, unusual veg, or pure simplicity.
- No TV fame needed—these win on quality, charm, and community love.
Summary: Your Farm Shop Day Out Planner
| Farm Shop | Best For | Special Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barleylands | Families & big shopping trips | Next to farm park & garden center | 4.5 (1,500+) |
| Lathcoats | Fruit picking & café breaks | Pick-your-own seasonal fruit | 4.6 (1,600+) |
| Calcott Hall | Cozy vibe & baked treats | Wood-beamed barn + café | 4.6 (1,100+) |
| Manor Farm | Cooks & curious eaters | Rare veg & huge variety | 4.7 (436) |
| Upson’s | Egg lovers & local purists | Tiny, honest, direct from farm | 4.8 (73) |
Tip: Check opening times and seasonal picking dates before you go—especially for Lathcoats!
FAQ: Your Farm Shop Questions Answered
1. Do I need to book ahead?
Usually no for shopping, but yes for pick-your-own at Lathcoats (check their website/social media in season).
2. Are they good for kids?
Yes! Barleylands has a whole farm park. Others have space to run, animals to see, or cafés with treats.
3. Can I pay by card?
All accept cards. Some smaller ones (like Upson’s) might prefer cash—bring both just in case.
4. Are dogs allowed?
Often yes in outdoor areas, but check each shop’s policy—especially near food or animals.
5. Which is best for a quick stop?
Upson’s or Manor Farm—smaller, faster, but still packed with quality.
Final Thought
You don’t need a TV show to have a brilliant farm shop day. These five Essex gems prove that local food, friendly people, and muddy boots are the real stars. Pick one, pack a tote bag, and go taste the countryside!