The Farm
THE FARM | THE LAND
The farm, which covers the land between Goathland village and the hamlet of Beckhole is enclosed by ancient oak woodland and pastures of special scientific interest, and set within the amphitheater of the glorious North York Moors National Park.
We have restored the farmland to the 1850 field pattern, woods and hedges have been planted, ponds created and paths constructed. The farm is home to a herd of pedigree Dexter cattle and to a growing flock of Coloured Ryeland sheep. We are regenerative farmers, aiming to produce high quality produce sustainably in balance with nature and promoting biodiversity. If you would like to find out more please do say and we would be delighted to give you a farm tour.
THE COWS | DEXTERS
Dexter cattle are the smallest native dual purpose breed - meaning they can produce high quality offspring for premium beef alongside milk. Their small statue means they have steadily been replaced, since the 1940’s, within the diary industry, by breeds that can produce much more milk, as they were deemed non commercial.
In keeping with the restoration of the farmland we are also committed as a family to ensure that the animals we farm are producing high quality produce as sustainably as possible. To that end, our Dexter herd joined us in 2020 (replacing an Aberdeen Angus herd) and with the addition of our bull, John Snow, we hope to have a growing herd of dual purpose cows established on the farm within the next 5 years.
The cattle are 100% grass fed (nothing else) and we very much hope in 2024 to become the first micro dairy of Dexters in the UK. Their milk has very small fat globules and A2 beta-casein proteins making it much easier to digest and absorb than most milk and with growing evidence that it is much better for your health. Our ultimate aim | Meat and Cheese | Small but mighty. Follow Dexter updates @yorkshiredexters
THE sheep| RYELANDS
We have a growing, heritage, Coloured Ryeland flock of sheep - originally native to Herefordshire and classed as a minority breed on the Rare Breeds Survival List - the Ryelands really do have a lovely docile nature! They also produce high quality wool for hand-spinning and knitting and the best quality flavorsome meat. They couldn’t be more friendly - you can follow their updates from our dedicated Instagram @murkeskryelands