The Northern Farmer Awards 2026

We are FINALISTS

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Category:

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Family Run Farm of The Year

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Windle House Farm  is a small, tenanted Yorkshire Water farm, currently held on a second-generation tenancy. Facing the reality of being landlocked and unable to expand, we were determined to remain farming and keep a roof over our heads. This challenge became the catalyst for our diversification journey some years ago, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth, sustainability, and community engagement.

 

Although our business has diversified in recent years, farming remains at the heart of what we do. Since Stephen suffered a stroke in 2023, which left him disabled, we have had to adjust the scale of our operations. This man came back fighting and through pure grit and determination whilst we no longer farm in the same numbers as before, our commitment to agriculture continues. We still rear calves, maintain a healthy flock of sheep and lamb around 100 ewes each year, and continue to raise pigs. Farming is not just part of our livelihood—it’s part of who we are, and we take great pride in continuing this tradition despite the challenges we’ve faced.

 

Diversification: From Survival to Success

 

In 2017, we opened our farm to the public, offering up-close and personal animal experiences and affordable family fun. What began as a tiny take-out café has grown into a vibrant super café, now seating over 100 visitors. This expansion has enabled us to welcome thousands of guests each year, providing educational visits for schools, therapeutic sessions for care homes, and memorable days out for families.

 

Our diversification initiatives include:

 

• Interactive animal experiences that foster curiosity and respect for rural life.

• School programmes aligned with curriculum goals, focusing on sustainability, food production, and animal welfare. In 2026 we are providing  15 primary schools with FREE educational farm visits purely to help give children a better understanding of where their food comes from. 

• Care home visits, designed to promote wellbeing through sensory engagement and gentle interaction.

• Seasonal events such as lambing days and harvest festivals, bringing the community together.

 

The Role of Our Family

 

Although our business does provide jobs to 5 other members of our local village communities, our farm’s success is rooted in the dedication and teamwork of our family, with all four children actively involved in its daily running:

 

• Our eldest two sons Jack and Max play a crucial role in maintenance and the physical upkeep of the farm, ensuring smooth operations despite our limited resources.

• Thomas, our third child, age 12, works tirelessly behind the scenes with mum, handling social media and marketing. His creativity and digital skills help us reach new audiences and share our story. Without his help Mum would definitely struggle with this sometimes. 

• Annie, our youngest daughter, only 9, is the welcoming face of our farm. She delights in greeting guests, engaging with children and adults, and sharing facts about our animals, making every visit personal and memorable.

 

Although we are not yet able to pay wages for everyone, So the eldest lads have full time jobs else where, the collective effort and enthusiasm of our children are fundamental to our business and community impact.

 

 Community and Educational Impact

 

Our farm has become a hub for learning, wellbeing, and rural connection. We have:

 

- Inspired thousands of schoolchildren through hands-on educational experiences.

- Provided therapeutic benefits to care home residents and individuals with additional needs.

 

Sustainability and Vision

 

Diversification has allowed us to build economic resilience and invest in environmental stewardship. Revenue from our visitor programmes supports habitat restoration and opportunities for young people in agriculture.

 

Our vision is to continue expanding our educational outreach, develop accessible programmes for all abilities, and inspire the next generation of farmers. 

 

Our vision is to grow sustainably by building on the strong foundation we already have—both in our farming operations and through the educational experiences offered at our Petting Farm. While our financial resources are limited, we are committed to expanding thoughtfully and creatively, making the most of what we have.  

 

We aim to enhance our farming capacity by improving existing infrastructure, adding to livestock numbers where possible, and using innovative, low-cost methods such as recycling materials and repurposing equipment. This approach allows us to remain environmentally responsible and financially prudent while continuing to produce quality results. 

 

On the educational side, we plan to expand the Petting Farm’s role as a learning hub for children, families, and the wider community. By developing new interactive programs, workshops, and hands-on experiences, we will help visitors understand the importance of farming, sustainability, and animal care. 

 

Through resourcefulness, community involvement, and a strong commitment to education and sustainability, we will continue to grow the farm’s impact—both as a working agricultural space and as a place of learning and connection for all who visit.

 

Conclusion

 

Windle House Farm exemplifies how a small, tenanted farm can thrive through diversification, innovation, and family commitment. By overcoming landlocked limitations and embracing new ways to engage with the public, we have created a sustainable, welcoming space for learning and enjoyment. Our story is one of resilience, teamwork, and love for the land, and we are honoured to submit this application for Family Run Farm to celebrate our journey and impact.