A day on a hill farm
Spend time exploring Elsworthy Farm with your host to learn about sustainable farming and “cattle whispering”
An educational farm walk with Philip
“ It’s tempting to scale up, but today’s climate requires a rethink. This is why I created an educational experience. I’m looking forward to connecting with the general public, who are interested in visiting a small hill farm with a regenerative approach to its field management! ”
Elsworthy farm started around 20 years ago as a family home with a field. When two neighbouring farms sold up, Philip jumped at the opportunity, and Elsworthy farm came into being. The farm ethos is to improve the farm through better soil management, conservation and regeneration as well as a level of self-sufficiency.
The farm is in an interesting period of transition: the herd is expanding slightly and soil regeneration being strongly stimulated by changes in hedge management and the planting of new “climate copses”.
Uncover the secrets of sustainable farm practices
and witness the beauty of nature at its best.
Learn about regenerative farming:
Join us for an adventure: an exploration and connection with the land, its plants, trees and its animals.
Based around a gentle farm walk, the experience takes you on a tour of the farm, while your host explains its ethos.
Witness how over-grazed sheep pasture can be returned to a more natural scape of trees, shrubs, fungi and flowers with the cattle in the background.
Discover what is daily life like on a small farm.
Learn why it matters to reduce carbon emissions, or improve soil fertility without using artificial means.
You might also see and discuss how big issues like climate are being addressed, and make your own small gesture to restore this beautiful part of Exmoor.
Discover “cattle whispering”, a unique feature on this farm
Cattle whispering is a way of interacting with animals without physical force or shouting. As with horses, the technique is based on “joining-up”, something discovered by Monty Roberts in the equine world. Philip will introduce you to the concept: it is also proven very successful with children and in the workplace. There is no need to come in contact with cattle and for some, seeing cattle with horns, will be impressive enough. Your level of interest and confidence will influence this part of the visit. Whatever the situation, the cattle will be around for you to see, admire and take as many photos as you like! Believe me they are impressive!
Practical information:
Duration of the experience: 2 hours
Price:
- £20/pers minimum 2 people, introductory offer.
- Group rate available by enquiry
- Private visit also available by enquiry
Children are very welcome. There is a den to have fun in. The children are welcome on the walk and can take part in the “green gesture” to help restore this farm land. A soft drink is provided at the end of the walk and something to take home.
Sorry, but pets of any kind can’t be accommodated. Cows might have calves, and the introduction of new animals creates a bio-security issue.
FAQs for the Elsworthy Hill farm experience
What happens on the “Experience”?
The Experience is a guided walk round parts of the farm. It is suitable for adults, young people and children used to walking in the countryside. It is not suitable for pushchairs and prams.
Should I bring special clothing or shoes?
Apart from a short introduction indoors which might be indoors, the activities are outdoors. You need clothes which are warm or cool enough for you and those accompanying you. If the weather is wet, good waterproofs and wellies are necessary. Shoes and wellies must be clean before the start for biosecurity reasons.
Is there car parking?
Yes, there is ample parking spaces.
Will I have to walk far?
The experience is a 2-3 mile circular walk on hilly but easy terrain. If you cannot walk uphill, you may take your car to an intermediate car park after the introduction.
What facilities are there?
There are public toilets at the start of the “Experience”. I usually bring cold and warm drinks.
Do I need to get close to animals as I am not accustomed to cattle?
The organiser will assess the level of contact with animals, if any, with you at the beginning. There are no dangerous animals. Hedges and gates separate visitors from the animals, if there are anxieties. The experience is focused on a quiet environment and a peaceful atmosphere to help you relax. The cattle are very responsive to quiet or boisterous atmospheres.
Do you speak other languages?
I am fluent in French and has (limited) German.
