OUR STORY

Ever evolving tale…

October 2019 “Katie, we are moving to a farm and I’m going to breed pigs”

The Owl Farm Story: Where Tradition Meets Sustainability

At Owl Farm, our story begins with a passion for nature, a love for animals, and a commitment to creating a sustainable future. Nestled in the heart of the Cheshire, Owl Farm was born from a desire to reconnect with the land and share the beauty of ethical, sustainable farming with our community.

The Early Days

The journey of Owl Farm started with a dream:

To build a farm that worked with nature, not against it. We wanted to create a space where animals could roam freely, the soil could regenerate, and the food we produced was not only nourishing but also a reflection of our values.

 

Our Farm was originally named Owl Farm before it became Broughton Farm.  We chose the name "Owl Farm" as a nod to the wildlife that surrounds us. Owls, with their silent grace and role as natural pest controllers, symbolise the harmony we strive to achieve on our farm. From the beginning, we envisioned a place where biodiversity could flourish and where farming practices respected the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Our Philosophy

At Owl Farm, our philosophy is simple: farming as nature intended.

We believe in raising animals with kindness, growing food with care, and nurturing the land for future generations. We reject the industrialised, fast-paced approach to agriculture, choosing instead to slow down and embrace traditional methods that prioritise animal welfare, environmental health, and exceptional quality.

This philosophy underpins everything we do, from the way we care for our animals to how we cultivate our crops.

A Commitment to Rare Breeds

From the start, we made the decision to work with heritage and rare breed animals. These breeds, such as Large Black pigs, Oxford Sandy and Black pigs, Hebridean sheep, and Kune Kune pigs, are not only better suited to natural, outdoor living but also represent an important part of agricultural history. By raising these animals, we help preserve their unique genetics and ensure they remain a part of our future.

Our animals are raised slowly and naturally, with access to lush pastures, plenty of space to roam, and a diet that includes foraging and our own fermented grains. We don’t believe in shortcuts or compromising on welfare, which is why our animals are antibiotic-free, growth-promoter-free, and raised with the utmost respect.

Beyond Organic

While many farms aspire to meet organic standards, at Owl Farm, we go beyond organic.

For us, it’s not about labels or certifications; it’s about doing what’s right. Our animals live outdoors year-round, and we focus on regenerative farming practices that improve the land and reduce our environmental footprint.

Our approach includes:

  • Rotational Grazing: Moving animals between pastures to prevent overgrazing and improve soil health.

  • Natural Foraging: Encouraging animals to forage for food, which improves their health and enhances the flavour of the meat.

  • Sustainable Feed: Growing and fermenting our own grains to reduce reliance on imported, mass-produced feeds.

From Farm to Fork

Everything we produce at Owl Farm is a testament to our values. Whether it’s our rich, flavourful pork, our tender lamb, or our fresh seasonal produce, you can taste the difference that care, time, and sustainability make.

Our local markets are where we connect with our community, sharing not just our products but also the story behind them. We believe in transparency and want everyone who supports us to know exactly how their food is produced.

Building a Community

Owl Farm isn’t just a farm—it’s a community. Over the years, we’ve built relationships with local residents, chefs, and food lovers who share our passion for ethical, sustainable farming.

Looking Ahead

The journey of Owl Farm is far from over. As we continue to grow, our goal remains the same: to create a farm that not only produces exceptional food but also serves as a model for how agriculture can coexist with nature.

With plans to expand our pastures, introduce renewable energy systems, we’re excited about what the future holds. But none of this would be possible without the support of our incredible community.

Join the Owl Farm Family

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or new to our story, we invite you to join the Owl Farm family. Together, we can make a difference—one pasture, one plate, and one step at a time.

Thank you for being part of our story.

 

Much Love
Mark & Katie x