We are an extensive family-run traditional hill farm on the Scottish west coast island in a National Scenic Area, covering 2500 acres of mostly hill land (our highest hill is 424m), with a little "in-by" (better quality, low-lying) land situated at sea-level. Myself and my partner Josh run Highland cross cattle as well as Cheviot and Hebridean sheep in a traditional system. Part of our farm is designated SSSI. The farm is a haven for wildlife and many areas of the farm are managed specifically for environmental benefit, so is a great place to enjoy nature.
Help is needed with all aspects of farm work (ideally experienced, though please don't let lack of experience prevent application) and with our kitchen garden and polytunnel.
We are very interested in permaculture and regenerative faming, however we are inexperienced, have lots to learn, and would love to learn from anyone who has already been involved in developing permaculture systems. We're particularly keen to use seaweed harvested from the nearby shore to mix with the farmyard manure from in-wintered livestock to use as fertiliser. We continually strive to reduce our environmental impact, doing all we can to protect and enhance the land and natural systems we look after.
We have two gypsy cobs which we plan to train for work on the farm, e.g. harrowing and bracken crushing, as well as rounding up stock, to reduce our carbon footprint and access areas which cannot be safely reached by vehicles.
Jobs, workload and hours vary depending on the time of year. We love sharing our experience and knowledge, anything from tips on lambing and calving, through to scything technique, and Josh will teach you how to grow the best tomatoes!
A clean and comfy caravan with toilet, shower and living area is provided to relax and cook in (fully-equipped for self-catering) plus there are two small but comfortable un-serviced shepherd's huts for sleeping in (one has a small double and the other has one single bed).
We will provide you with food for you to make your own, with occasional meals shared with the family.
Wi-Fi is available, and there's a TV in the caravan. Board games are available plus plenty of interesting books.
Occasional help with cooking and some household chores in the farmhouse would be very much appreciated.
Very sorry, but we are unable to welcome dogs as we have so many farm dogs. Exercising the dogs is part of the daily routine for volunteers. Please be aware that they do bark and can often be very noisy so please don't expect perfect peace and quiet!
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Learning opportunities
Vegetable farming
Poultry farming
Cattle farming
Sheep or goat farming
Host type
Production farm
1,011.7
Hectares
|
2,500
Acres
