Traditional Rare Breeds

Hundreds and thousands of years have gone into developing an extraordinary diversity amongst our traditional farm animals. A matter of decades have seen most to the margins of extinction.

Economic demands for faster growth, higher yields and uniformity in livestock production have seen this rich mix of breeds displaced by a handful of commercial, often European, breeds. The gentler pace of growth and maturity of the old breeds requires two key commodities - grass and time. The result: that traditionally reared breeds may be special but they're just not economic.

In a climate dominated by talk of sustainability, we're not convinced that short-term economics - particularly when it comes to land use, biodiversity and food production - should continue to win the argument with such ease. Nor are we convinced that we should just give up on the unique contribution of our traditional breeds and the sheer quality of their produce.

So, we specialise in three of them - each chosen for its specific qualities and farm suitability:

Wensleydale Longwool sheep - for award-winning mutton and a beautiful woolHill Radnor sheep - for sweet lamb and tasty hoggetIrish Moiled cattle - for an award-winningly delicious beef

We are determined to do the best by our breeds - ensuring some good, old-fashioned, traditionally raised, individually grown quality ... Why not put them to the test?!