On 16th May 2022 21 farmers from the Dartmoor Hill Farm Project visited west Cumbria as part of a study tour.
The Dartmoor Hill Farm Project is funded by the Prince’s Countryside Fund, The Duchy of Cornwall, The Heritage Lottery Fund and Dartmoor National Park Authority
Twenty one farmers came to Farthwaite Farm on Kinniside common where farmer Will Rawling gave an over view of his farming enterprise. The group walked out to view the common and learn how Kinniside common is managed and grazed.
Discussion involved comparisons of livestock types used on commons, habitat condition and restoration, tree planting and agri environment schemes.
The second farm visited was High Broadleys and farmer Ian Knight who described his supply of Herdwick hogs to Booths supermarket. This highly successful venture involves purchasing Herdwicks from local hill farms and finishing them to the required specification, creating a regular supply to match the demand. He is further diversifying into establishing a holiday let on the farm which will be used in part to enhance the experience of those wishing to see where food is produced.