Established in 2022 Joe, Jess and their daughter Winnie had been growing their little flock of Coloured Ryelands, looking for a farm to expand their passion for farming. When Winnie was born, Joe and Jess bought 5 Coloured Ryelands. Big Bird, Elmo, Star, Flighty and Spot. Keen to make the most of maternity leave from NHS jobs it seemed the perfect time to start farming.
As the flock grew, so did their knowledge and desire to farm regeneratively. So when the opportunity to take on Orchard Farm came along it was the perfect time to move the flock and create a pasture fed system which would work in harmony with habitats and nature.
Spanning 34 acres of pastureland, wetlands, orchards, and wildflower meadows is diverse. There are now 100 sheep, including four of the original five! The flock has expanded to include Coloured Ryeland, Poll Dorset, and Dutch Spotted Sheep, fed on only grass they produce premium-quality meat and wool. The regenerative approach works with natural ecosystems, restoring soil health, improving biodiversity, and creating a landscape where both wildlife and farming can flourish side by side.
Since taking on the land, Joe and Jess have embarked on a journey of habitat restoration. Reviving wetlands with leaky dams and ponds, planting over 5,000 trees with the Plymouth and South Devon Community Forest, and cultivating orchards bursting with heritage fruit varieties. Nesting boxes have been installed for owls, kestrels, and bats, ensuring the farm remains a thriving habitat for local wildlife.
Orchard farm is also about learning, sharing, and reconnecting people with nature. As a CEVAS-accredited farm, schools and home education groups are welcome for immersive, hands-on experiences in farming and ecology.