Farming

There is a long history of hill farming in Borrowdale, from the introduction of Herdwick sheep (unique to this part of the Lake District) by the Norse settlers of the 10^th century, to diversification and the influence of the EU Common Agricultural Policy today. 

Borrowdale can be compared to other environments, looking at their suitability for different types of farming. We can also compare local, national, and global influences on farming, with plenty of topics to research, discuss, and debate.

Borrowdale contains some of the highest, steepest, and roughest terrain in England, as well as receiving high monthly rainfall. The hardy Herdwick sheep are particularly well-suited to these conditions, and they graze the high fells - mostly unenclosed land shared by farmers from adjoining valleys.

Some farmers also keep cattle, and there are two fish farms profiting from the wet climate.

Farming is very important in the history of Borrowdale. In 1829 there were 21 farmers in Borrowdale, but by 2006 there were only 12 (all sheep farmers). What are the continuities and changes of farming in Borrowdale?  Most of the farms in Borrowdale are now owned by the National Trust, with tenant farmers, and there are ongoing debates about the best way to manage the land. As George Monbiot claims, are we 'sheep-wrecking' the landscape with too many sheep?

A visit to Ashness Farm, or Low Bridge End Farm (in the adjoining valley of St John’s in the Vale), will demonstrate the importance of farming to this rural area, providing students with hands-on, personal, and memorable experiences.