The Farm

We have been organic farming since 2005, so you will see a few thistles and weeds about! We have nearly 2000 breeding sheep and we also buy in cattle to fatten. We lamb outside starting in April so plenty of young lambs to see from end April through May. We welcome dogs to the farm but ask that they are kept on a lead. We grow oats that are sold, to be milled into porridge or biscuits.

Our way of farming encourages ground nesting birds. We have erected nest boxes around the farm for small birds and owls. We have barn and tawny owls on the farm too. The RSPB have surveyed and listed 45 species on the farm, 23 of which are birds of conservation concern. You may see foxes, deer and badgers or at least their tracks.

We have nine ponds on the farm and we have also fenced off ditches and burns from the livestock to improve the quality of water running into the Jed Water. The ponds are great havens for wildlife and birds too. Ask Lucy where to go and sit, by a pond for some peace and tranquillity!

Over the years we have planted over 30,000 trees, both native hardwoods and softwoods; and created two new woods (which were previously grazing for livestock). We have planted over 5 kilometres of new hedges and also repaired and gapped up old hedges on the farm. Hedges are great for small birds to nest and shelter in and for food (berries). Our livestock love them, to shelter from the cold wind or for shade on hot summer days. All the woods are managed with conservation and timber production in mind.

We have created five walks, of varying lengths on the farm to encourage our visitors to enjoy the countryside and take a walk. Some of the walks are on tracks only and others will take you through the fields, or past a pond. Walks are restricted at lambing time but don’t worry we will always offer you options to get out on the farm. We ask that dogs are kept on leads.