Welcome to Benson’s Pond, our third-generation family-owned working cranberry farm nestled in Middleboro, Massachusetts that utilizes regenerative and organic farming practices. With 45 acres of vibrant cranberry bogs, we’re proud to offer captivating agricultural tours.
Our Cranberry Bog Discovery Tours allows you, our guest, to step into a unique working landscape and delve into the world of cranberry cultivation. Discover the intricate process of cranberry growing as you explore the bog side, where you’ll learn about different cranberry varieties and the fascinating nuances of each growing season.
Cranberry Bog Discovery Tours are guided tours featuring a leisurely walking portion around the bogs, with accessible options available. Engage in captivating discussions about the rich history of this native Massachusetts fruit, tracing its roots back through generations of agricultural tradition.
Experience firsthand the tools of the trade as we showcase our specialized equipment unique to cranberry farming. Afterwards, unwind on our outdoor patio overlooking the picturesque farm, where you’ll indulge in refreshing cranberry drinks and delectable snacks.
Join us as we invite you to explore and celebrate a cherished tradition that has been passed down through the ages on the vibrant Southcoast. For more information and booking inquiries, please reach out to us at tours@bensonspond.com. Embark on a journey of agriculture, cranberry discovery, and exploration with Benson’s Pond!
Group tours are $25.00 per person. We can take groups of 10 to 60. The tours are 60 – 90 minutes with patio time at your leisure. Price includes food and drink samples. A lunch option is available at an additional cost; please inquire. Tours are rain or shine. We do have a lovely indoor barn space if needed for enjoying your food and drink.
Book a private tour or join one of our open Discovery Tours.
Can we do a tour under the minimum number of people required?
To be respectful of time and its value we ask that:
Do you have drop in cranberry bog tours?
We are an active farm engaged full time in growing cranberries and we also offer cranberry bog tours and events. We do not staff the barn or farm at all times for tours and therefore we ask that all cranberry bog tours be booked in advance. If you are visiting the area and looking to see a harvest and we are unavailable, we suggest the driving around the roads in the area including Holmes Street, Meadow Street, France Street and Rochester Road which are full of harvesting cranberry bogs.
Do you have cranberry bog tours on weekends?
We conduct cranberry bog tours on weekdays between 9 am and 3 pm with advanced reservations. On occasion we will hold a weekend tour or early evening tour upon request. In the fall we do book open Discovery Tours which individuals can join. Dates are listed on our cranberry bog tour pages.
What is regenerative farming?
Regenerative farming works with nature and the local land to rebuild soil health, boost biodiversity, increase plant health and improve water cycles, helping restore natural ecosystems. Utilizing these practices we aim to grow a more nutrient dense cranberry while maintaining a healthy and resilient ecosystem.
How long is the cranberry bog tour & how many people can you take?
Tours are typically 60-90 minutes depending on group size and questions. We can take groups up to 100 at a time. We can split larger groups over different days or times on the same day to accommodate larger groups over 100.
What will I see in each season at the cranberry farm?
There is always something happening on a cranberry bog!
In the fall when cranberries are ripe, we get up close to the vines and berries and we demonstrate our historic dry cranberry separator. Winter brings out the lovely red dormant vines. In spring we focus on the growing buds and discuss how we use integrated pest management. Summer brings our beautiful dainty white cranberry blossoms. All tours focus on how cranberries grow, life of a cranberry farmer, history of the cranberry and we discuss how cranberries are harvested.
Are the cranberry bog tours accessible?
Our bog roads are hard packed dirt and wheelchairs can get around relatively easily. We can take vans onto the bog roads as needed. We do have a golf cart that can bring people around if needed. We also have an ADA portable restroom. The barn, store, and separator areas are handicap accessible.
Do you have restrooms?
Yes we have a high end restroom trailer with running water. We do have an ADA restroom.
Do you have a store?
We have a cranberry themed farm store with locally made items such as soaps, candles, jelly, chocolates, and more. In the fall we also have our own farm fresh Benson’s Pond cranberries for sale. Our store takes cash, major credit cards, Venmo and Apple Pay. The store is open during tours and select open farm days. If you do not have a tour booked please reach out to confirm the store is open.
Do you have a lunch service? Can we bring our own food?
Yes. We partner with local cafes. Please inquire about the menu. Advanced reservations required and menu choices need to be provided two weeks in advance. We do not have lunch on demand. Tour groups are allowed to bring their own lunches and enjoy on our patio or surrounding grass area with advanced notice. We do have our indoor barn space available for larger group tour lunches with advanced notice.
Do all fall cranberry bog tours include seeing a harvest?
Our cranberry bog tours are non harvest tours, even during harvest time. Cranberry bogs harvest once a year and we cannot promise a set schedule. Fall tours will showcase ripe berries on the vine and aspects of wet and dry harvest. To see a wet harvest, please see our harvest events which include getting into a bog with floating berries!
Do you have a water bubbler?
We have a small bubbler for small sips as needed. We recommend bringing your own water bottle. We do sell cranberry inspired drinks in our store along with water.
Do you have plenty of parking?
Yes, our parking area can accomodate buses, vans, and cars.
What if it rains?
Please check the weather for Middleboro, MA before your visit and dress accordingly. Layers are always a good idea. Our tours are rain or shine. We do have indoor spaces and will move the tours inside in case of heavy rain or thunder.
Are there insects on bogs?
We are a farm and have seasonal insects you may encounter such as ticks, spiders, moths, mosquitoes etc. Our bog roads are hard packed dirt and we keep walkways clear which helps minimize exposure. Please wear bug repellent as desired.
