Family Farm
Derbyshire
The farm consists of about 60 Acres which we farm on bio-diverse principles; we have about 100 goats who are primarily a dairy herd, which we milk to make cheese. We nearly always have a few pigs which we feed on the whey from the cheese making, grain and veg from the garden.
We also have a small herd of Aberdeen Angus cross cattle which pretty much roam free so are by default grass fed, and about 30 laying hens which are ex battery as well as a few meat hens and turkeys in season. There are 3 pet sheep and a couple of ducks which just sort of turned up, 4 dogs and about 6 cats we inherited. We have quite a large bio-diverse veg garden which we try and run as no dig and have several bee hives from which we collect honey. As well as the farming side of things we have a pub/restaurant on the farm which is open on Friday and Saturday evenings.
There is always lots of tasks to do and we particularly welcome long term WWOOFers, especially if you are interested in veg gardening and animals. Experience is always great, but a willingness to learn and laugh along the way are equally important. We are also hoping to get some help for me, Tony, as I'm having shoulder troubles and I do most of the maintenance on the farm. Recently we invested in a new post knocker which sits on the back of the tractor and are making paddocks so we can graze the goats on rotation.
One of the best jobs on the farm is goat herding; there's nothing better than watching the goats if you enjoy sitting in nature and taking in the Derbyshire country side
Organic methods: We are primarily bio-diverse and organic by nature, the only chemicals and inputs which come onto the farm or either prescribed by the Dr or vet, or required by law (ie. cleaning the milking machine and dairy).
Certifications: We are not certified organic.
Current projects: Unfortunately in 2022, we lost a number of goats to the barber pole worm and a dog attack. On the advice of our vet we are splitting our fields into much smaller paddocks so we can practice a form of rotational grazing, so we will be doing a lot of fencing when the weather permits. We are in the process of registering as a charity, which will incorporate a Care Farm, a Men in sheds, and a community supported agriculture(CSA) veg box scheme, if you would like to know more about the concepts you can google them to see what they are,
As part of the CSA we are expanding our growing area and have recently ordered a polytunnel, we are also dodging the weather to plant 3500 hedging plants, and must not for get we have planted a 140 tree Apple orchard, so exciting times, here on the Farm
There are always the daily jobs of milking, feeding and mucking out, but jobs with the goats never feel like a chore, they are so full of character that there's never a dull moment
During lock down we built a herb labyrinth and a small flower garden thanks to two of our regular wwoofers, Angela and Andy, who travel for the summer then spend the winter with us on the farm in their mobile home. Both the herbs and flowers now need a bit of attention.
We would love to find different ways to encourage more visitors to the farm, especially if they bring in a bit of income, such as goat cuddling and trekking, forest school, nature walks etc. So, if you think you have a good idea we would love to hear from you and get involved with these projects together
This is a film a Woofer made about the farm in July 2022 and we think it is very good
https://youtu.be/i6S8sERQGSk
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Learning opportunities
Vegetable farming
Poultry farming
Pig farming
Cattle farming
Sheep or goat farming
Dairy farming
Forestry
Beekeeping
Aromatic or medicinal plants, teas
Vegetable or fruit preservation
Methods or systems
Biodynamic agriculture
Community-supported agriculture (CSA)
No-till farming
Rotational grazing
Host type
Production farm
24.3
Hectares
|
60
Acres
Accommodation
Susan
Member since 2022
Languages spoken:
English
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Response rate: 32%
Response time: typically within 5 days
Derbyshire
Belper
Reviews
Mariko
United Kingdom
•
January 2026
I cannot thank them enough for everything they gave me.
[Host] Farm was always lively, with many volunteers coming and going, and there was such a warm, vibrant atmosphere. Even though it was my first time caring for goats, they patiently and kindly taught me everything, always with encouragement and a smile.
They treated me as if I were a member of their family, and I truly felt at home there! Their meal is alway awesome as well!
Because the farm is highly diversified, my days were also incredibly fulfilling from the perspective of learning about farm management. I was fortunate to see and experience so many different aspects of the farm, including the care farm, the farm restaurant, and the large Christmas carol event. Being able to witness how all of these elements came together was a rare and valuable experience.
I am deeply grateful to Tony and Sue for giving me so many opportunities to learn, grow, and experience life on their farm. This was not just a place to work—it was a place where I felt belonging, purpose, and genuine warmth.
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Steffy
United Kingdom
•
July 2025
[Host] Farm was my first WWOOFing experience and it couldn’t have been better. There was always something to do from feeding the goats and chickens, helping with the pigs, mucking out, milking, walking the goats and working in the garden. Every day was different and I really enjoyed the variety.
The goats were definitely the highlight. They’re full of personality and very friendly. Taking them for walks through the countryside was such a fun and calming experience. The two collies, Mars and Chloe were always around too. Loyal, playful, and a great company.
I also got to meet other WWOOFers during my stay, they came from a different background and loved hearing their stories. Why they chose farming and the experiences they’ve had so far. These conversations were really interesting and gave me new perspectives.
The farm is in a beautiful part of Derbyshire and it’s clear that a lot of care goes into everything from the animals to the veg garden. It was inspiring to see how things are done in a sustainable and thoughtful way.
And above everything, what made this place feel like home were Tony and Sue. They are such warm and welcoming people. From the first chat, Sue made me feel comfortable and supported. Tony is full of knowledge, fun to be around and also an amazing cook, meals were made with so much love and care. They truly made the experience unforgettable.
I’m really thankful for my time there and can't wait to return!
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Caron
Canada
•
August 2024
We should all be so lucky to spend time
on Handley Farm. I was not at all prepared for what this magical farm had to offer. There is something for everyone. From the goats ( who immediately stole my heart) to the bees, to the gorgeous vegetable garden, to the labyrinth; there is a niche to fit everyone’s likes.
Everyone was so welcoming, I immediately felt at home. From the tasty meals to the fabulous conversations, to a sing a long in the restaurant, The Handley farm quickly captured my soul.
Our hosts, Tony and Sue, have managed to create a farm full of education, inclusion and community . Work does not feel like work on this farm; it feels like purpose.
Visiting this farm saved my life. It changed me so much, that I will be returning in the fall for a longer stay.
Tony and Sue, I don’t have the words to express the gift you have given me. I will be forever grateful.
See you soon!
Much love,
Caron
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Reply from Susan
What a lovely lady,she stole our hearts ,a great worker and can come back any time and hopefully will
Dominique
Canada
•
August 2024
Here's a slightly late comment... Sorry ...
Last December and January, I had the chance to meet 2 exceptional people, Sue and Tony!
My 4 weeks spent with them showed me how important the sense of community and sharing are. They opened their doors to me even though we were in the middle of the holiday season. They welcomed me as if I were part of the family and for that, I will always be grateful to them.
Given the winter season, tasks on the farm were a little slow but I still participated in goats milking as well as planting an orchard of 150 fruit trees. A great experience, very enriching on a human level.
Unfortunately, I left just as they were starting to expand their market garden and install polytunnels. For this reason, I would wholeheartedly like to return there, one day, during the summer, to work in this magnificent garden.
Once again, thank you very much, Sue and Tony for your great generosity and greetings to your family and all the people around Handley Farm. See you soon !
Dominique xx
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Perle
France
•
July 2024
Fair warning: if you go for a wwoofing at Handley farm, there is a very good chance that you might never want to leave!
This place has everything you could wish for: adorable goats, beautiful garden, breathtaking landscapes… and the nicest people! Tony will feed you with his wonderful meals and will make you laugh as soon as you will be able to understand him, Susan will make you a cup of tea and share her wisdom about goats, cheese and a lot of other things, Sian will make you realise how much of a miracle it is to grow your own vegetables… I had the most amazing time there, met extraordinary people, other volunteers who were a delight to work with…
I cannot properly express how this stay was an incredible experience, I couldn’t recommend more and I will return as soon as I can!
Thank you so much for this little heaven on earth!
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Steve
United Kingdom
•
July 2024
A very varied farm with lots going on from helping with the goats, working in the veg garden, fixing drystone walls and lots more. A very friendly team, good conversations and excellent food. Lovely to meet and work with you all.
