Darts Farm, a local farm food hall in Topsham, has been identified as one of the best nationwide. Recognised for more than just its farm shop, the business’s premise includes a plethora of areas that have enabled the critical success of this Devon Farm.
Opened in the 1970s by Ronald Dart as one of Britain’s first pick-your-own businesses, with a direct farm-to-table strategy, it was then labelled Pic Fresh. Since his passing, Ronald’s sons Michael, James and Paul have continued his legacy, expanding it to new heights.
The modern-day basis of Darts Farm not only includes their multi-award-winning food hall, but also an artisan school, wellness spa, fishing ponds, play areas, nature walks and numerous eateries.
It is this modern business model that has allowed critics such as Nick Wyke, Digital Food and Drink Editor at The Times, to exclaim, “I have seen the future of food shopping and it’s not in London, Manchester or Edinburgh but on a road that runs alongside the Exe Estuary in Devon, a few miles south of Exeter.”
“I have seen the future of food shopping and it’s not in London, Manchester or Edinburgh but on a road that runs alongside the Exe Estuary in Devon, a few miles south of Exeter.”
What makes their Food Hall so unique? Their focus is on high-quality, local and homemade and grown produce. East Devon Excellence has noted that ‘their food hall is filled with hundreds of hand-picked local and artisan suppliers; the best Westcountry cheeses, incredible artisan breads, pastries and pies, luxury local wines, craft beers and much more!’ Sustainability is another factor, with their master butchers using either their own Ruby Red Cattle or locally sourced animals, using only traditional butchering techniques that ensure minimal waste.
‘Their food hall is filled with hundreds of hand-picked local and artisan suppliers; the best Westcountry cheeses, incredible artisan breads, pastries and pies, luxury local wines, craft beers and much more!’
From the plethora of aspects within the business, the company won the Farm Retail Awards in 2025, winning Best Farm Shop and Best Farm Restaurant for their Farm Table.
Only a train journey away, or a 25-minute drive for those who drive, Dart’s Farm should be on every Exeter student’s list of exploring the best of what Devon has to offer.
