Yelden Strawberry Fayre: Deliciously Fun
Located in the small village of Yelden holds a fun tradition that’s been taking place for nearly 4 decades. The Yelden Strawberry Fayre is a chance to let go and enjoy the beautiful countryside while partaking in the glories of strawberry season in England.
If you blink, you may miss Yelden… or is it Yielden? Even the signs to this village can be confusing. Some of the signs have been changed over to more modern English spelling. But, what hasn’t changed is the hospitality of the people. Once you step foot into Yelden, you will be instantly welcomed by the incredible locals. Perhaps I am lucky in that I have amazing cousins who live here, but the locals seem to take interest in anyone who travels to Yelden. You feel supported, encouraged, and like family. So, it’s no surprise that when you attend the Strawberry Fayre, you will get a sense of belonging.
The Strawberry Fayre is free and open to the public. However, the beverages, sweets, games, face painting, and yes… the strawberries, are available for a small fee. We learned that most of these offerings were cash only, so make sure you bring some when you visit. The purpose of the fayre is to pay for the maintenance of St Mary’s church, which is a gorgeous 12th century church sitting on the hilltop overlooking the village. Due to its frailty, it costs the village hundreds of thousands of pounds each year to restore the church. Quite an undertaking for a village of just under 200 people. The Strawberry Fayre is the village’s main opportunity to provide the money needed for the church.
So what are the activities at the Strawberry Fayre besides eating strawberries and drinking champagne? Well, there’s sporting games like football and ring toss, listening to live bands, looking at cool and classic cars as well as country tractors, eating some oysters, burgers, and British hot dogs, gift shopping, crafts, puppetry, watching a World World II Spitfire plane that was used during the Battle of Britain, and seeing my incredibly talented cousin in action at the face painting stand.
And, if you want the chance to see where all this money is going, you can walk up to the church, where they hold an art exhibition showcasing local artists… and you can pay to take one home with you. It’s a beautiful display of artistry and community that this tiny village shows on this very special day. If you are in the Bedfordshire area during the month of June, you have to make the effort and come to Yelden during the Strawberry Fayre. The fayre takes place every last Sunday in June in the afternoon. Don’t miss your chance!
