Meet the Sheep

Meet the Herdwick sheep, one of the Lake District’s most distinctive and much loved characters.

Hardy, sure-footed and perfectly suited to the rugged fells, Herdwicks have been part of the Cumbrian landscape for centuries. Their thick, weather-resistant fleece helps them thrive in the tough conditions of the high fells, from driving rain and cold winds to bright summer days.

Herdwick lambs are born with a dark, almost black coat, which gradually changes as they grow. Their wool develops into the beautiful shades of grey that Herdwicks are famous for.

Independent and hardy by nature, Herdwicks are well adapted to life on the fell. They spend much of their time grazing freely across the open landscape, helping to shape the character of the Lake District we know today.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Wildlife and biodiversity are at the heart of how we manage the farm. We are committed to creating and protecting habitats wherever possible, working with nature to enhance the landscape for generations to come.

In 2021, we implemented a Higher Tier Countryside Stewardship Scheme on the farm — a 10-year, conservation-led scheme supported by Natural England. A major part of the scheme is the restoration of 60 acres of wood pasture, which will allow us to plant more than 300 new trees across the farm. These trees will provide valuable habitats, shelter and food for a wide range of birds, insects and mammals, while helping to strengthen the character of the landscape.

The scheme also includes the planting of 600 metres of new hedgerows, creating important wildlife corridors between existing habitats, and the restoration of 15 acres of traditional hay meadows. These species-rich meadows are particularly valuable for wildflowers, bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.

Beyond the formal conservation work, we aim to build biodiversity wherever possible through the everyday management of the farm. By protecting existing habitats, creating new ones and managing the land sensitively, we hope to provide a thriving environment for wildlife alongside a productive working farm.

Life Through the Seasons

Life through the seasons

Life on the farm follows the seasons. Each brings its own rhythm, its own challenges and its own rewards. From the quiet of winter through to the abundance of summer, there is always something happening, although sometimes the most important work is simply allowing the land to rest.

Winter Rest, Recovery & Renewal
Winter is a time for the farm to slow down. With the fields quieter and growth largely dormant, our attention turns to looking after the land, maintaining buildings, machinery, fences and hedges, and preparing for the year ahead. It is a time to repair, restore and recover — for the farm, the livestock and ourselves.

Spring Life Begins Again
As the days lengthen and the first signs of new growth appear, the farm comes alive. Grass begins to grow, trees and hedgerows burst into leaf and wildlife returns to the fields, woods and meadows. Spring is one of the busiest and most rewarding times of year, with new life everywhere and the promise of another growing season ahead.

Summer Growth, Light & Wild Swims
Summer is a season of growth and abundance. The fields are at their most productive, the hay meadows are alive with flowers and insects, and the long days make it possible to spend more time outside. It is also the season for one of our favourite ways to enjoy the farm — wild swimming. There is something special about stepping away from the everyday and swimming in the natural waters surrounded by the landscape.

Autumn Harvest, Livestock & Preparing for Winter
Autumn brings a change of pace once again. We bring the livestock through the season, with some animals being sold as part of the natural cycle of the farm. The days shorten, the leaves begin to turn and our focus shifts towards preparing everything for winter. Buildings, machinery, fields, fences and livestock all need to be ready for the colder months ahead.

And then the cycle begins again.

The seasons are not simply something that happens around the farm — they shape everything we do.