Each Christmas you can enjoy Cherry Picking in Young, NSW. Known as the “Cherry Capital of Australia“, Young offers a unique and immersive experience for cherry enthusiasts.
From orchard tours to cherry picking adventures, this charming town is a cherry lover’s paradise. Our family has loved staining our fingers with the rich juice of cherries as poick them straight from the tree and into our mouth.
Join us as we delve into the vibrant world of cherries in Young and discover why this region is renowned for its delectable fruit.
Cherry Picking in Young
Table of Contents
How to Pick and Store Cherries
There is a certain art to picking cherries to ensure you get the ripest and juiciest cherries. Of course, storage is really important as well or they will ripen too quickly. Follow these simple directions.
- Choose ripe cherries: Select cherries that are fully ripe and have a vibrant colour. Look for cherries with firm skin and a glossy appearance.
- Handle with care: Gently hold the cherry by the stem and twist it, allowing it to detach from the tree without damaging the fruit or the spur.
- Pick during optimal times: Aim to pick cherries in the early morning or late afternoon when the fruit is cool and less prone to damage.
- Store properly: Place the picked cherries in a shallow container, arranging them in a single layer to prevent them from getting squished or bruised.
- Refrigerate promptly: Store the container of cherries in the refrigerator as soon as possible. The cool temperature will help preserve their freshness and flavour.
- Avoid washing until ready to eat: It’s best to refrain from washing cherries until you’re ready to consume them. Moisture can accelerate spoilage, so keep them unwashed and dry until you’re ready to enjoy them.
- Consume within a week: Properly stored cherries can last for up to a week in the refrigerator. Be sure to check them regularly and remove any spoiled cherries to prevent them from affecting the rest of the cherries.
- Consider freezing or preserving: For longer-term storage, you can freeze cherries by spreading them out on a baking sheet, freezing them until firm, and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Alternatively, you can preserve cherries by making them into syrup, jam, or preserves.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your picked cherries stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Enjoy the delightful taste of cherries at your convenience!
When to Go Cherry Picking
The ideal time for cherry picking in Young, NSW is typically from mid-November to late December, depending on the specific weather conditions and the ripening of the cherries.
It is recommended to check with local orchards or websites to confirm the exact dates and availability. Going earlier in the picking season allows for a wider selection of cherry varieties while visiting closer to late December provides the opportunity to pick the last cherries of the season before they are fully harvested.
Facilities
It is crucial to understand that cherry orchards, are primarily businesses and may not be equipped to handle large numbers of visitors. While they welcome families for cherry picking and other activities, amenities on these farms may be basic due to their primary focus on agricultural operations.
Families should appreciate the orchard’s limitations and come prepared with necessities such as comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing.
Showing understanding and respect for the orchard’s business operations can help ensure a positive experience for both visitors and hardworking farmers.
Cherry Varieties in Young
There are 10 different cherry varieties to choose from in Young NSW that are available at the start of the season, mid-season and at the end of the season.
| Early Varieties | Mid-Season Varieties | Late Season Varieties | |||
| Variety | Description | Variety | Description | Variety | Description |
| Supreme | Sweet | Ron’s Seedling | Dark red, firm and sweet | Bing, Sweetheart | Sweet |
| Merchant | Well-balanced acid & sweet | Stella | Sweet | Sylvia, Lipins, Simone | Sweet |
| Vista | Tart | Van | Sweet to tart big flavour | Black Douglas | Sweet, juicy, firm dark flesh |
Cherry Picking Map
Use our map to build your cherry picking trip.
Cherry Picking in Young NSW
If you’re eager to indulge in the sweet and juicy delights of cherry picking, you’re in the right place.
We’ve curated a list of cherry orchards in Young, where you can experience the joy of plucking fresh cherries straight from the trees. From family-owned farms with generations of expertise to picturesque orchards offering a range of cherry varieties, this list will guide you to the best spots for a memorable cherry picking adventure in Young.
Get ready to savour the flavours of this luscious fruit and create lasting memories amidst the beautiful orchards of Young.
Willayoung Orchard
Willayoung Orchard, a family-owned and operated property near Young, specialises in tree-ripened stone fruit. With over 5,500 trees spread across approximately eight hectares, the orchard has evolved from a fruit-tree nursery to a fully operational orchard, including the establishment of a packing shed in 2002.
While they do not offer pick-your-own options, their delicious produce can be found at various markets, including the Young & Region Farmers Market.
191 Willawong St, Young, NSW
Head to the Willayoung Orchard Facebook Page for their latest updates and openings.
Ballinaclash Orchard
Ballinaclash Orchard provides visitors with “Pick-Your-Own” cherries and apricots amidst the fresh country air and spacious surroundings of their beautiful orchard in Young NSW.
Families will be super excited to hear that this is one orchard where visitors are encouraged to sample the cherries while picking! It’s also recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and carry a cooler with ice packs for transporting freshly picked cherries.
Ballinaclash also offers a shed shop where customers can find a wide range of products, including sun-ripened stone fruit, delectable jams (featuring cherry, apricot, fig, quince, and strawberry varieties), sauces, honey, prunes, and other locally sourced produce.
Ballinaclash Orchard is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm during the cherry season, allowing visitors to enter and stay as long as they like within the specified opening hours. The last entry into the orchard is at 4:00 pm, and all purchases must be finalized by 4:45 pm. Toilet and shed facilities close promptly at 5 pm.
4321-4335 Olympic Hwy, Young NSW 2594
Head to the Ballinaclash Orchard website for their latest updates and openings
Lynton Orchards
Lynton Orchards is a family-owned cherry and stone fruit orchard located approximately 6km south of Young on the corner of Olympic Highway and Roberts Rd and offers a delightful “Pick-Your-Own” experience.
Visitors to this Young cherry orchard can savour the taste of various cherry varieties as they pick the fruit straight off the trees.
Lynton Orchards is open seven days a week for picking, with the fruit expected to be ripe for picking by late November, following the beautiful blossoming in the first week of Spring.
Olympic Hwy &, Roberts Rd, Young NSW 2594
Head to Lynton Orchards Facebook Page for all the latest cherry picking updates.
Glean Mohr Farm
Glean Mohr Farm, located in Young, is a delightful fresh fruit and veggie shop & café known for its delicious desserts. During the cherry picking season in December and January, visitors can enjoy the experience of picking their own cherries, along with strawberries and peaches.
The farm offers a wide selection of freshly picked berries and stone fruits, complemented by local honey, free-range eggs, and homemade fruit pies and jams.
With unbeatable prices and a warm welcome, Glean Mohr Farm is conveniently situated on the main road with ample parking and easy access, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking fresh and delicious produce.
Don’t miss the chance to taste their refreshing sugar cane drinks, adding a unique twist to your farm experience.
4249 Olympic Hwy, Young NSW 2594
Head to the Glean Mohr Farm Facebook Page to check their opening times this season.
Valley Fresh Cherries and Stonefruits
Valley Fresh Cherries and Stonefruits, a young family-owned and operated horticulture and livestock enterprise in the Hilltops Region of Young, NSW, is renowned for growing export-quality cherries and stonefruits.
While they do not offer pick-your-own options, visitors can still enjoy the exceptional quality of their hand-picked and processed fruit, which undergoes strict quality control procedures.
Explore the farm during the cherry season from mid-November to late December and indulge in the delicious offerings available for Farm Gate Sales, showcasing the beautiful products grown on-site.
4179 Olympic Hwy, Young NSW 2594
Head to Valley Fresh Cherries and Stonefruits website for this seasons opening times.
Stony Creek Orchards
With a rich farming history spanning four generations, Stony Creek Orchards proudly carries on the tradition of producing some of Australia’s finest cherries with meticulous attention to detail.
During the cherry picking season, which runs from mid-November to mid-December, visitors are invited to experience Stony Creek’s unique orchard, offering a range of modern cherry varieties such as Royal Tioga, Hazel & Mitchell, Simone, Santina, Black Star, Sylvias, Regina, and the well-known Ron variety.
The orchard is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm throughout the cherry season, providing a warm welcome to all. Make sure you book your pick your own experience ahead of time as this orchard books out quickly!
633 Spring Creek Rd, Young NSW 2594
Head to Stony Creek Orchards for the latest cherry-picking news.
Petal Falls Orchard
Petal Falls Orchard is a small family-owned and operated cherry and stonefruit orchard located in Kingsvale that offers a delightful cherry picking experience each season.
During the cherry picking season, visitors have the option to either pick their own cherries straight from the orchard or choose from the selection available for shed sales.
The warm and inviting atmosphere of Petal Falls Orchard creates a memorable experience for cherry enthusiasts, allowing them to personally select and enjoy the finest cherries while savouring the beauty of the orchard surroundings.
924 Kingsvale Rd, Kingsvale NSW 2587
Head to the Petal Falls Orchard Facebook Page for their latest news.
Allambie Orchard and Cafe
Allambie Orchard and Cafe is a family-owned and operated 60-acre orchard that has just celebrated its 25th season.
The orchard offers a delightful cherry picking experience. With a variety of cherry types available throughout the season, visitors can choose from Supremes, Eagles, Empress, Vista, Black Star, white cherries, Lapins, sour cherries, and Stella.
While picking, visitors are encouraged to taste the fruit in moderation, although if you do eat quite a lot, you can make a donation to the Motor Neurone Disease Foundation FightMND at the orchard.
Allambie Orchard provides a picturesque setting for families and groups to enjoy a picnic by the scenic dam, making it an ideal destination for cherry picking and relaxation.
3725 Olympic Hwy, Wombat NSW 2587
Head to Allambie Orchard for opening times and current pricing.
Top of the Hill Orchard
Nestled at the Top of the Hill, this family-run boutique cherry orchard offers a premium cherry picking experience.
With a focus on providing ripe and ready cherries, the orchard specialises in offering high-quality, fresh cherries for visitors to enjoy.
Whether you’re a cherry enthusiast or simply seeking a delightful picking experience, Top of the Hill Orchard promises a memorable adventure surrounded by the beauty of the orchard and the satisfaction of picking premium cherries.
976 Spring Creek Rd, Young NSW 2594
Head to the Top of the Hill Orchard Facebook page for all the details this season.
Cherrymore Orchard
Cherrymore Orchard, located in the scenic Hilltops Region just south of Young, New South Wales, is a cherished cherry and plum orchard that has been owned and operated by the Batinich Family for four generations.
With a commitment to single-origin products, all of Cherrymore’s offerings, including their tasty fresh cherries, cherry juice, and other cherry products, come exclusively from their own orchard.
As an added convenience, Cherrymore offers free Australia-wide shipping, allowing customers to enjoy their delicious products no matter where they are in the country.
For a true taste of the Hilltops Region’s renowned stone fruit, Cherrymore is the go-to destination, whether you visit in person or order online. At this stage, there is no pick your own option.
EB Batinich and Co. “Cherrymore”, Wombat Road, Young NSW 2594
Head to the Cherrymore website for all the details.
Main Range Orchard
Main Range Orchard is the place we recommend your family heads to if you want to immerse yourself in the joy of a cherry orchard in full production. Take a guided tour of the orchard and packing facility, followed by a delightful tasting of crisp and crunchy cherries. For an even more immersive experience, pick your own cherries straight from the tree, ensuring the freshest fruit for your enjoyment.
With a range of cherry varieties and a season that typically runs from mid-November to early January, Main Range Orchard offers premium cherries known for their exceptional quality and flavour.
During the cherry picking season, which concludes in December, picking hours are from 8 am to 5 pm on weekends.
831 Boundary Rd, Young NSW 2594
Head to the Main Range Orchard website for their latest news.
Back Creek Orchard
Nestled in the picturesque Hilltops region in Young, NSW, Back Creek Orchard cherries thrive in the fertile soils of their farm, located just eight kilometres from the township of Young on Back Creek Road.
From mid-November to late December, Back Creek Orchard opens its shed doors for customers to purchase their export-quality cherries, which are carefully grown and picked to ensure they are sweet, fresh, and arrive in premium condition. No pick your own at this stage.
727 Back Creek Rd, Young NSW 2587
Head to the Back Creek Orchard Facebook page for their current picking times.
Hill Look Orchard
Hill Look Orchard, situated in the stunning Hilltop Region in Wombat, is a working cherry farm that offers an array of delicious fruits depending on the season, including cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots, figs, and olives.
On your visit you can choose to go on a guided tour of the cherry farm and packing facility, followed by a taste of freshly picked, crisp, and crunchy cherries.
Alternatively, you can embark on a delightful Pick Your Own Adventure, directly plucking the ripe cherries and strawberries from the trees.
78 Race Creek Rd, Wombat NSW 2587
Head to the Hill Look Orchard Facebook Page for details.
Eastlakes Family Tree “Fairfield Orchard”
Eastlakes Family Tree “Fairfield Orchard,” owned by the Eastlake family since 1862, is a multi-generational farm located just 10 kilometres from Young.
Offering a wide range of cherry varieties, available for direct purchase by the public from early to mid-November until late December, visitors are invited to meet the friendly Eastlake family, seek their advice on favourite varieties, and indulge in tastings that highlight the diverse flavours, textures, and sweetness of their cherries.
For an immersive farm experience, they also offer the opportunity to pick your own cherries, subject to availability, weather, and COVID restrictions, with bookings encouraged.
Packing shed, 3923 Olympic Hwy, Wombat NSW 2587
Head to the Eastlakes Family Tree website for their latest news.
Wombat Heights Orchard
Wombat Heights Orchard, known as one of the largest Pick Your Own Cherry Farms in NSW, offers a delightful cherry picking experience.
With a commitment to treating customers as valued guests, they provide top-quality fruit directly from their orchards, which are meticulously maintained and feature a variety of cherry varieties.
The picking season typically begins around mid-November and extends until Christmas, but it is recommended to contact them to confirm fruit ripeness.
Visitors are invited to make a day of it, enjoying a picnic in the beautiful two-acre gardens and capturing memorable family photos amidst the picturesque countryside during the pick-your-own experience.
78 Race Creek Rd, Wombat NSW 2587
Head to the Wombat Heights Orchard website for all the news.
Hall Family Orchards
Hall Family Orchards, spanning three generations of cherry growers, prides itself on producing premium export quality cherries.
In addition to their boutique farm gate shop, where customers can purchase these cherries directly, they also open their orchard to the public during select weekends in December for a unique U-Pick experience.
Recognised for their commitment to environmentally-friendly practices, the orchard has received accolades such as the NSW Farmer of the Year and a National Carbon Cocky Award.
Visitors can expect the best cherry varieties, meticulously tested by the family for firmness, flavour, and size, ensuring a truly exceptional cherry picking experience. The beautiful garden surroundings and modern farm gate shop provide the perfect setting for visitors to savour the difference and enjoy a picnic while immersing themselves in the ultimate cherry experience.
28 Ellerslie Rd, Wombat NSW 2587
Head to the Hall Family Orchards Facebook Page for their season news.
National Cherry Festival
The National Cherry Festival in Young, NSW is an annual celebration of the cherry harvest, showcasing the vibrant cherry industry in the region, typically scheduled for December each year.
It is a popular event that draws visitors from all over to experience the festivities. The festival features various activities, including cherry picking, live entertainment, market stalls, cooking demonstrations, and fireworks.
Visitors can indulge in delicious cherry-themed treats, participate in cherry spitting competitions, and witness the crowning of the Cherry Queen.
With its rich history and lively atmosphere, the National Cherry Festival offers a delightful experience for cherry enthusiasts and families alike, providing a perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the cherry culture of Young.
Head to the National Cherry Festival website for all the details of the annual celebration.
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