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Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit) — what kind of farm, conditions, how to get in (2026)

Verified: 2026-06-11

In short

Large Scottish farm with high worker return rate, but a 2024 ITV/The Ferret investigation found housing problems. Operator Concordia confirmed.

In numbers
600+
seasonal workers
per year
Aberdeenshire, Scotland
region
United Kingdom
strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
crops
harvest season
May–September
season
working months

How to get onto the farm Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit)

Confirmed operators

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The operator chooses the farm, not you — but it helps to know where you can end up. Apply through one of the operators — they will allocate you to farms depending on demand.
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Housing and livingLiving conditions, amenities

On-farm accommodation (mobile homes); 500 places at peak season

Your passport must stay with you. If anyone takes your passport, that is a criminal offence (Modern Slavery Act 2015). Call: Modern Slavery Helpline 08000 121 700 (free, 24/7).

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Pay and piece rateHourly rate, piece rate, net earnings

not published; piece rate (berries)

More about pay on the farm: first steps and your rights on the farm.

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Scale and cropsFarm size, what they grow, production volume
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Seasonal workers600+
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RegionAberdeenshire, Scotland
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What to pickstrawberries, raspberries, blueberries
📅
SeasonMay–September
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Sitesone farm, Aberdeenshire; Seasonal workers: 600+, at peak season 500 live on farm (farm data)
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Outputnot published
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Areanot published
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Documented issuesInvestigations, violations, sources
1 incident

Below are documented cases from public sources. This does not mean the situation has not changed — but it is useful to know.

2024 — According to an ITV News and The Ferret investigation (September 2024), seasonal workers reported overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions: two people in one bed, mould, non-working toilets. Workers described the accommodation as "cramped and undignified". The farm said it was investing in improvements. ( ITV News )

If you face violations: your rights on the farm · Fair Work Agency (formerly GLAA) 0800 432 0804

Positive signals

  • 73% worker return rate (farm data, 2023–2024)
  • Supplies through Berry Gardens (Driscoll's)

Frequently asked questions

Can I choose the farm Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit)?

No — the specific farm is assigned by the Seasonal Worker Scheme operator. You apply through an operator, and they place you on farms based on available spots and your profile. Knowing which operators work with Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit) is useful: apply through them.

How much do they pay on the farm Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit)?

not published; piece rate (berries)

When is the season on Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit)?

Season: May–September. Crops: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries. Check exact dates and availability with the operator when you apply.

Which operators work with Castleton Farm (Castleton Fruit)?

Confirmed operators: Concordia. Apply through the operator's official website — it is free.