British berry growers are reporting a strong harvest this year despite a summer marked by record heatwaves, wildfires, and drought conditions across much of the country. According to the British Berry Growers (BBG), around two-thirds of the 2026 crop has been picked, and overall berry production is up 6% compared with last year’s already large yield. Particularly high volumes have been recorded for blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
The UK’s unusually hot and dry weather, which included a record five heatwaves, has posed challenges for many farmers, but berry crops have largely thrived due to protective measures. Most UK berries are grown under polytunnels and benefit from drip irrigation systems, which deliver water efficiently and shield the plants from extreme heat. This infrastructure has helped offset some of the potential damage caused by the harsh conditions.
Nick Marston, chair of the BBG, noted that British growers have invested millions in water security measures over recent years, including winter storage reservoirs and computer-controlled irrigation systems. However, he expressed concern that late-season strawberry production may slow down as the plants tire from heavy cropping during the heatwave period. Blackcurrant yields are also expected to decline by about 10%.
While berry producers have reported resilience and growth, other sectors of British agriculture have experienced setbacks. The UK’s cereals harvest, for example, is suffering significantly; the latest data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) indicates wheat yields are 13% below the five-year average, and spring barley harvests are projected to fall by approximately 25%, marking the lowest levels since records began in 1999. Anthony Hopkins, AHDB’s director of cereals and oilseeds, warned that successive poor harvests are placing severe financial strain on many arable farms.
In contrast to cereals, vineyards and oilseed rape fields have benefited from the warm conditions, though vegetable and salad growers have also faced challenges due to the drought and heat.
Marston highlighted that while many berry growers have been able to finance water infrastructure investments thanks to the high value of their crops, about 40% of producers still lack reservoirs or licensed boreholes. These farms rely on mains water or river extraction, which can be limited during periods of drought, increasing their vulnerability.
Recent government measures have eased planning restrictions on building farm reservoirs, a step welcomed by the sector. However, Marston emphasized the need for further changes to river abstraction licensing to allow increased winter water intake for storage in drier months. He also pointed to a broader climate trend of hotter summers and wetter winters in the UK, underscoring the importance of government support to help growers adapt.
Looking ahead, Marston suggested that with adequate backing, British berry producers could expand output to capitalize on supply challenges faced by southern European and North African farms, which are enduring even more severe water shortages and heat.