THE WAINWRIGHT FAMILY
A legacy of farming at The Flower Belt
Nestled in the picturesque Ryedale countryside, situated between the market town of Helmsley and the charming village of Sproxton is The Flower Belt, a beautiful destination for picking flowers. Sproxton Hall and the land on which The Flower Belt lies, is a family-run farm with a rich history and a connection to the land. At the heart of this special place is the Wainwright family, who have been farming at Sproxton for three generations, although their farming blood goes back much further.
The Wainwright family’s farming journey began decades ago in Sproxton, a small village just a stone’s throw from Helmsley. For over 60 years the they have worked the land, raising animals and cultivating crops. Their passion for farming and dedication to nurturing the countryside has been passed down from generation to generation, making Sproxton Hall the thriving farm it is today.
(Image: The view from The Flower Belt, overlooking Helmsley with the North York Moors in the back ground)
As the third generation of Wainwrights to work the land, Mark and Fiona Wainwright and their son Henry have continued the family tradition of farming. Farming a combination of owned and tenanted land, they farm 700 acres, 2000 pigs and 40 Belted Galloway cattle. While the farm still carries the legacy of the past, they have embraced new ideas and innovative ways.
The family’s story is one of hard work, dedication, and a love of farming. For years, they focused primarily on traditional farming, but in recent times, they decided to diversify. They saw the potential in a field over looking Helmsley, with stunning views over the North York Moors National Park and turned a portion of their land into the flower field that we now know as The Flower Belt.
(Image: Ted planting tulip bulbs)
The family’s passion for growing seasonal produce, including tulips, sunflowers, wildflowers, and pumpkins, is evident. Whether you’re picking flowers in the spring, summer, or autumn, each visit to The Flower Belt is a chance to connect to the beauty of nature.
At The Flower Belt, the family has made sustainability a key focus. They understand the importance of protecting the land for future generations. From giving old agricultural tools a new lease of life (check out the Silo Shop built from an old grain silo!) to supporting local businesses.
(Image: Transporting the newly converted silo early one morning.)
As a family-run business, The Flower Belt is built on values of hard work, community, and love for the land. Whilst Mark and Henry lead the running of the farm, each member of the Wainwright family plays a role. Whether it's Fiona creating illustrations for the branding, Sam helping to put up the tent, Lily creating all the signage and artwork, or Ted being drafted in for planting and impromptu photoshoots, the Wainwrights pull together to ensure the success of the farm and of The Flower Belt.
For the Wainwright family, farming is more than just a job - it’s a way of life. They’re committed to preserving the beauty of the countryside for future generations and ensuring the sustainability of the farm as a viable business for their future generations.
(Image: The first season at The Flower Belt. Selling and wrapping wildflowers from the back of the cattle trailer. July 2022. From L-R, Henry, Ted Fiona and Lily)
Whilst cultivating and caring for the land they have also created a welcoming space for visitors. From their beautifully maintained flower field to the new addition of The Honey Tap café and bar, they’ve made sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re visiting to pick flowers, enjoy a treat, or simply take in the stunning views. Local or visitor, you’re always made to feel like part of the family.
(Image: The family enjoying a drink at The Honey Tap. September 2024. From L-R, Harriet, Sam, Fiona, Grandma Wainwright, Jess and Henry.)
