Nestled in the heart of the countryside, Duchy Home Farm spans over 1,000 acres of organically managed land. Acquired by His Majesty the King in 1985 and stewarded by tenant farmer Henry-James Gay, the farm is a living example of responsible, regenerative farming.
Our commitment to regenerative agriculture ensures maximum yield while supporting biodiversity and wildlife conservation. By prioritising environmentally friendly farming methods, we contribute to the long-term preservation of natural resources and the health of our ecosystems for future generations.
Through educational programmes, on-farm events and digital storytelling, we share the seasonal rhythms of our land and the regenerative methods that restore and enrich it. Whether you’re a curious visitor or a passionate farmer, Duchy Home Farm offers a unique window into organic farming done right.
DUCHY HOME FARM
Our approach to cropping reflects our deep commitment to organic, sustainable agriculture. We focus on varieties that enrich the soil, support biodiversity, and contribute to a resilient farming system.
Each harvest reflects not just what we grow, but how we grow; with care, consciousness, and a long-term vision for the land.
Maris Wigeon is a rare English Heritage Grain famously prized by roof thatchers for its long straw which lasts many years. The long straw is favoured by organic farmers like ourselves as it provides good competition for arable weeds.
A cornerstone of our rotation, Mascani oats are nutrient-dense and naturally weed-suppressing. With high milling quality and strong disease resistance, they serve a dual purpose; feeding our livestock and being processed into porridge oats and Duchy biscuits.
We grow maize primarily for silage to support our dairy herd. It’s under-sown with a herbal ley to maintain soil cover, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity; an example of how we integrate animal and crop systems to benefit the wider ecosystem.
We raise native Aberdeen Angus and Hereford cattle for tender, marbled beef. Grass-fed, slowly matured, and sustainably managed from birth to pasture.
Our 220 pedigree Ayrshire cows produce rich, high-quality milk with a well-balanced fat and protein content, ideal for making butter, cheese, and other dairy products.
Our cows are free to graze or shelter year-round, and we feed them only homegrown, nutrient-rich forage.
Shropshire sheep graze our cover crops and pastures, aiding weed control and enhancing soil health through low-impact rotational grazing.
Step into our autumn fields and discover a sea of pumpkins in every shape, size and colour. Whether you’re after a tiny treasure or a giant carving showpiece, our homegrown pumpkins are ready to be picked straight from the patch.
Advance booking is essential as spaces fill up fast!
At Duchy Home Farm, our mission is to cultivate a symbiotic relationship between farming and the natural world, offering food transparency, hands-on learning, and a working example of regenerative agriculture.
