Meet the Growers: Windmill Hill Fruit Farm

At Bensons the Juicers, we believe that every great juice begins with great growers. That is why we love shining a spotlight on the people behind the fruit, the farmers whose care, knowledge and dedication make our juices so special. 

Last week, we visited Windmill Hill Fruit Farm near Ross-on-Wye in South Herefordshire, home to long-standing growers AJ and CI Snell. This family-run farm supplies us with the raspberries and strawberries that go into some of our most popular blends, including our much-loved Raspberry and Apple Juice. 

A day on the farm 

We were welcomed by James Snell, Tom Deards and the whole team, who gave us a glimpse into the scale and precision of their work. Across 450 acres, the farm produces an impressive range of soft fruit, with a state-of-the-art packhouse on site to ensure freshness and flavour are preserved. 

Did you know? 
Windmill Hill produces 2,000 tonnes of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries every year, along with 600 tonnes of conventional and organic blackcurrants. 

Watching the harvesting in action brought home just how much skill and attention to detail goes into producing soft fruit at this level. It is not without challenges, particularly in a year when drought has put real pressure on crops. Despite this, the Snell family’s commitment to quality never wavers. 

Leading the way in sustainability 

What makes Windmill Hill especially inspiring is their pioneering approach to sustainability. The farm became LEAF Marque certified in 2007, and in 2018 was recognised as a LEAF Demonstration Farm for its climate positive farming practices. 

Water management is a key focus, with an impressive system of lakes, rainwater harvesting and cutting-edge irrigation technology. 

Did you know? 
The farm is now 40% self-sufficient in water, thanks to rainwater harvesting from ten hectares of polytunnels and innovative drip irrigation systems. 

Sensors in the soil and substrates provide live data on moisture levels, allowing the team to give every plant exactly what it needs. This careful attention to detail means resources are used responsibly, while still delivering outstanding fruit. 

As Anthony Snell, Director of Berry Gardens and Chairman of the NFU Water Agricultural Board, often highlights, sustainability is all about refinement and progress. From live water meters to staff training, the Snell team are proving how British farming can set new standards for the future. 

From field to bottle 

The raspberries grown at Windmill Hill bring a vibrant, tangy character to our Raspberry and Apple Juice, a blend that balances crisp British apples with the tart brightness of summer berries. 

Did you know? 
Our Raspberry and Apple Juice has been shortlisted for the Great British Food Awards 2025. 

It is one of our proudest creations, and this recognition is a celebration not only of our team at Bensons, but of growers like the Snell family who make it all possible. Without their dedication to sustainable farming and exceptional fruit, our juices simply would not taste the same. 

Why growers matter 

Visiting Windmill Hill really brought home how important it is to continue supporting British farmers. Behind every bottle of Bensons juice is a team of people who work tirelessly to grow fruit of exceptional quality, often in the face of unpredictable weather and increasing challenges. 

So, next time you pour a glass of Raspberry and Apple Juice, know that you are not just enjoying a refreshing drink. You are also raising a toast to James, Tom and the whole Windmill Hill team, and to the incredible community of growers who keep British farming alive.