Farm Profile

Kirket Nook is a tenanted farm that has been in our family for generations, originally managed by my grandfather, and now run by my father with my assistance (Jane). My two daughters also enjoy lending a hand.

We manage around 200 acres of rented land, with around 100 acres designated as a SSSI protected fell, home to diverse flora and fauna, including orchids and the rare brown fritillary butterfly, along with stunning limestone pavement.

This area is farmed under a higher-level environmental stewardship scheme to preserve its natural beauty.

The rest of the land consists of rough grazing and semi-productive pasture, which we use to produce haylage for our livestock during winter and for grazing our sheep.

With numerous hedgerows and traditional dry-stone walls, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration and learning. We practice environmentally friendly farming, avoiding artificial fertilizers and chemical sprays.

We currently manage two flocks of sheep. The main flock consists of commercial Texel x sheep, bred for meat production and replacement breeding stock, with lambs reared naturally on grass. Our second flock is a newer, small group of pedigree Border Leicester sheep, affectionately nicknamed the “bunny sheep” for their large ears and the “princesses” for their dramatic personalities. These rare British sheep are typically sold to other flocks for breeding. Both flocks live outdoors most of the year, coming into the barns only for a few weeks during lambing season. We maintain a closed flock policy, breeding our own females only purchasing new tups as needed to prevent inbreeding, we also have a couple of Herdwick and North of England Mule sheep.

As for our farm dogs, they truly embody the saying "man's best friend."

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Izzy is my dad's fully trained sheepdog, she is around six years old.

Midge and Meg are 18-month-old sisters. Midge is my dog and progressing well in her training, while Meg belongs to my Dad and is just beginning hers.

Bobby, our elderly dog, is mostly retired but still manages to navigate the sheep given half a chance.

Poppy, the cocker spaniel, is the big softie of the group, always lounging around and enjoying vehicle rides.

We also have three ponies on the farm:

George, the adorable Shetland who lives in or near the sheep house; 

Rosie, the sweet New Forest mare who can often be found near food;

and GP (General Pride), my daughter's riding pony, a charming black and white cob.

All three ponies enjoy greeting visitors and love a good scratch.