About the farm
Sitting in a beautiful spot on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, the farm centres around old pasture in a valley with historic water meadows and contains three fresh water springs as well as a ruined mansion. The main farm is 290 acres, with an additional 200 acres farmed locally. About 100 acres is herbal leys, 60 acres woodland, and the rest is permanent pasture (some of which is transitioning to herbal leys).
With roots dating back to the 1500s, Fowlescombe is a shining example of regenerative agriculture. Certified Soil Association Organic, PFLA (Pasture for Life), and by A Greener World, the farm embodies a commitment to restoring soil health, fostering biodiversity, and farming in harmony with the natural environment. Every step taken at Fowlescombe reflects a dedication to leaving the land better for future generations.
Meet the farmer
Rosie Ball has been the farm manager at Fowlescombe farm since 2019. Rosie has a degree in Conservation Biology and brings an incredible wealth of knowledge to the management of Fowlescombe Farm. The farm is committed to working toward a fully regenerative system with no external inputs. She talks about the farm and its philosophy in the film below.
About the breed
Manx Loaghtan is a primitive breed of sheep originating from the Isle of Man. They're a majestic looking animal, particularly for sheep, with exotic looking horns - sometimes up to 6 per animal!
It is one of the breeds deemed to be at risk of extinction by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, with fewer than 1500 registered breeding females. In 2008 it received EU recognition and protection under the Protected Designation of Origin scheme and is listed in the Ark of Taste, an international catalogue of endangered heritage foods maintained by the Slow Food movement.
Taking 12-18 months to fully mature, Manx is ideal for raising as hogget when all of its inherently desirable genetic eating qualities then appear, those being rich, dark, lean meat, intramuscular marbling and protein density giving length and depth of flavour.
