Our story
The Strawberry Field Origins
Strawberry Field and the original Victorian house were gifted to The Salvation Army in 1934. In 1936 it was opened as a children’s home for girls later accepting boys.
From then on, for nearly 70 years, it gave some of Liverpool’s most vulnerable children a refuge from turmoil and unhappiness – a safe, calm and spiritual home.
The John Lennon Legend
It was on these grounds that a young John Lennon, before Beatles fame, came to play, reflect and escape the post-War streets of Woolton. Those days spent playing in The Salvation Army grounds shaped him and inspired his work within the Beatles as an adult. Strawberry Field was later immortalised in the famous song, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever,’ where he explored those more innocent days of escape that could counter the later complexities of a life lived in the public gaze.
Much like The Cavern Club, Penny Lane, The Grapes and The Beatles Story, Strawberry Field is a jewel in Liverpool’s Beatles’ crown. However, in spite of the hundreds of thousands of tourists that come to Liverpool each year, this important part of local history has never been open to the public. Now the famous red gates are open to the public for the very first time.
Continuing the Legacy
Remaining true to the tradition of giving young people every best chance to succeed in life, Strawberry Field is perpetuating this legacy of care and support through a new training hub for young people with learning difficulties and other barriers to employment. With a visitor exhibition exploring the site’s history and links to John Lennon, a café as well as gardens for spiritual reflection, the Strawberry Field site weaves together educational, cultural, heritage and spiritual elements in one site to continue inspiring future generations to come.
With every visit, or donation, to this legendary site you will be helping to continue the legacy of supporting young people at Strawberry Field, this time by helping young people with learning difficulties overcome the barriers they face in gaining meaningful employment.
Our mission
As the custodians of this precious heritage, the Strawberry Field mission is threefold.
Firstly, Strawberry Field is a place that provides sustainable employment opportunities for young people with learning difficulties. The new hub offering training, skills and valuable work placements provides real employment prospects. Both the young people and their families are offered support, time to socialise, develop aspirations, help to break down barriers and achieve their full potential.
Keep the gates open for good
Secondly, we have opened the gates to the public for the very first time. Why not follow in the footsteps of John Lennon and visit the new, authentic exhibition dedicated to the story of the place, the song and his early life. Or simply enjoy a new destination, off the beaten track, with tranquil gardens to visit, enjoy lunch and explore.
Christian community
Thirdly, Strawberry Field is a Christian Community of spiritual exploration, retreat and pastoral care. A place where you can take time to rest and refresh yourself. Find out more about our community events.
