The Russell Orchards Property

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Farms & Orchards

Official Website: The Russell Orchards Property
Location: 143 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA, 01938 map
Phone:(978) 356-5366
Ages: Toddlers, Kids, Teens, Adults
In/Outdoor: Outdoor
Cost: $

Others to Consider: Kimball Farm, Shelburne Farm & Orchard, Connors Farm, Brooksby Farm, Land's Sake Farm

The Russell Orchards property, created in 1920, has a long history as a working farm. Comprised of 120 acres of fields, gardens, orchards and barns, the Orchard offers so many family-friendly activities, you'll want to come back over and over again!

The Russell family grows most of what they sell in their farm store, including 25 varieties of apples; 8 varieties of berries; gourds, herbs, honey harvested from their hives, maple syrup tapped from their maples, fruits (like grapes, peaches and pears) and vegetables (like asparagus, lettuce, peppers and squash). When available, visitors to the farm can pick their own produce! The animal barnyard is a great place to feed bunnies, horses, goats and sheep, and look at many species of birds.

The bakery is known for homemade cider donuts hot out of the donut machine, and you can always call ahead to order a handmade fruit pie. Homemade pestos, salsas, tea breads, fruit butters, cookies and granola are also available, all made with fresh ingredients from the farm. The store carries shaker baskets, 'cool kids gifts,' jams and jellies, maple syrup, gourmet teas and coffee, books, and more.

The Russell Orchards winery began in 1988, and now produces over a dozen fruit wines (such as black currant, dandelion, and strawberry-rhubarb) and hard ciders. Parents may want to take a separate trip to the Orchard to attend a wine tasting in the farm store!

The 2006 season opens in April and closes in November, with lots of special events crammed into its calendar. Take part in the Farm Kids programs on Saturdays, or visit during the Strawberry, Peach, and Wine and Apples Festivals. Pick Your Own's are available throughout the year (announced when the berries or fruits are ready for picking), and the fall boasts a concert series, hayrides and cider pressing.

Directions
From the South: Take I-95 North to 128 North. Rt. 1A North (Exit 20A) 8 miles to Rt. 133 East. Follow the signs to Crane Beach, Castle Hill and Russell Orchards.

From the North: Take I-95 South to 133 East. Follow the signs to Crane Beach, Castle Hill and Russell Orchards.