Welcoming Our Herdwick Sheep: A Heritage Breed with Character

We’re delighted to welcome a small flock of Herdwick sheep to The Countryside Kitchen — a hardy, heritage breed with deep roots in British farming history.

Originating from the Lake District, Herdwicks are one of the UK’s most iconic native sheep breeds, known for their resilience, excellent mothering instincts and ability to thrive in challenging landscapes. Their story is closely tied to traditional farming systems and the stewardship of the land — values that sit at the heart of our work.

Even more exciting, our Herdwicks are in lamb, and we’re looking forward to welcoming lambs in the spring. Lambing season is always a special time on the farm and offers a wonderful opportunity to talk with visitors about animal care, seasonal food production and where meat really comes from.

The lambs will be carefully reared and, in time, we’ll be offering hogget through our on-site shop — a slower-grown, flavourful meat that reflects our commitment to animal welfare, sustainability and nose-to-tail eating.

True to form, we asked our community to help us name the flock, and we’re thrilled to introduce:
Lamboghini, Lady Baa Baa, Baa-bara and Woolly Wonka — each with plenty of personality already.

Our Herdwicks are an important part of our educational work, helping us tell honest stories about farming, food and the journey from field to fork — rooted in real food and real life.