A Victorian smallholding, a rather ambitious idea and an ongoing argument with the weather.

Cross Bank Farm is a small Victorian holding in the Shropshire countryside, built in 1890 (as far as we know) and still carrying its history rather well.

When we arrived, we thought we'd simply do a bit of work. We've been doing a bit of work ever since.

The original buildings are still here, along with a historic well, an old rainwater cistern, a walled orchard and a Dutch barn with views across the surrounding countryside.

It's not a polished place, and we've never particularly wanted it to be.

We're gradually bringing it back to life as a working smallholding, keeping rare and traditional livestock, growing what we can and producing food that reflects the seasons and the land around us.

Our animals are an important part of daily life here. From the rare-breed pigs and Hebridean sheep to the ducks, quail, chickens and turkeys, each has its own character, requirements and occasionally questionable ideas about acceptable behaviour.

Alongside caring for the animals, we make pickled quail eggs, preserves and other small-batch foods in our farm kitchen.

It's a way of living that can be immensely rewarding, occasionally exhausting and rarely predictable.

But it's ours, and we wouldn't have it any other way.

Sharing a little of Cross Bank Farm

Over time, we've found that people are curious about this way of life.

Some are considering their own smallholding and want to know where to begin. Others are fascinated by the countryside, wildlife or the simple pleasure of being somewhere a little less busy.

So we've created a small collection of experiences that reflect what Cross Bank Farm actually is.

Not a petting farm or a place of organised animal entertainment, but somewhere to learn, observe and appreciate a different pace of life.

Those interested in smallholding can explore the realities of keeping livestock and managing land. Nature lovers can enjoy the quieter hours of the countryside. And anyone who simply needs a little breathing space can find time to slow down.

We keep things deliberately small and personal, with the wellbeing of the animals and the everyday life of the farm always coming first.

From our farm to your home

Whether it's a jar of handmade preserve, our pickled quail eggs or a visit to the smallholding, we hope Cross Bank Farm offers something genuine.

Good food. Interesting animals. Honest knowledge.

And the occasional reminder that life doesn't always need to happen at full speed.