The Drying Fields of Britain

The Drying Fields of Britain — How Drought Is Reshaping UK Agriculture

At S. Thorogood & Sons, we’ve spent over a century working with British growers and suppliers. But in 2025, the land is speaking louder than ever — and it’s parched.

A Historic Dry Spell

This spring, the UK is experiencing its driest start to the year in nearly 70 years. England recorded just 80.6mm of rain between February and April, marking its driest spring since 1956 . Reservoir levels have dropped to 84%, down from 90% in April 2022 . Over half of England’s rivers are flowing below normal levels, with some in the North East and North West at record lows .

The Impact on British Produce

The consequences are already visible in the fields. Farmers are reporting early crop failures and are turning to irrigation weeks ahead of schedule . In regions like Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and Kent — areas known for high-value crops such as soft fruits, potatoes, and vegetables — the financial risks are particularly acute. Without sufficient irrigation, the quality of produce declines, leading to misshapen or scarred fruits and vegetables that may not meet supermarket standards .

Moreover, the UK's food self-sufficiency is under pressure. As of 2023, only 62% of the food consumed in the UK was domestically produced, down from 78% in 1984. Notably, just 16% of fruits and 53% of vegetables consumed are home-grown .

The Rising Need for Irrigation

Traditionally, less than 5% of agricultural land in England and Wales is irrigated, relying instead on natural rainfall . However, the increasing frequency and severity of droughts are challenging this model. In a dry year, the net economic benefit of agricultural irrigation in England and Wales is estimated at around £665 million at the farm level .

Yet, water scarcity is not just an agricultural issue. It's a societal one. In Scotland, for instance, the driest spring since 1964 has led to reservoir levels dropping from 91% to 77%, well below the seasonal average of 90% . This situation underscores the need for sustainable water management practices across the UK.

A Call to Action

The current drought conditions are a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change. They highlight the urgent need for investment in sustainable farming practices, improved water infrastructure, and policies that support domestic food production.

At S. Thorogood & Sons, we are committed to supporting British agriculture through these challenging times. By working closely with our network of growers and suppliers, we aim to ensure the continued availability of high-quality, seasonal produce for our customers.