Farm

Friars Court is a working farm comprising of just over 625 acres, 400 acres of which are arable, 100 acres grassland used as grazing for the herd of 30 suckler cows and the remainder is woodland. A number of conservation techniques are carried out on the farm to help reduce the amount of chemicals applied to the land whilst at the same time helping to enhance and protect the wildlife. These include 35 acres of watermeadows, a 10 acre wildflower meadow, lakes and wetland habitats. 6 metre conservation headlands surround many fields to create natural corridors for wildlife and all are used to help attract a wide variety of plants, birds, insects and animals.

Over 60 acres of Willow trees are also grown on the farm, primarily as a biomass fuel crop, although some is used by schools and craftsmen to create ornamental artwork for gardens, from fence panels to living structures, and it is also ideal for aiding riverbank stabilisation projects, as it not only easy to establish but it is the natural way to protect our waterways from erosion. Examples of these uses are on display around the grounds of the house.

Alternative Energy is also demonstrated through a range of wind and solar exhibits located within the gardens of the house. The Solar Water heater can be used to show how hot water can be heated simply using the power of the sun, whilst the Wind and Solar Power Unit illustrates how electricity can be produced from the elements and applied to number of practical uses. Also in the gardens is the Solar Array, a bank of 48 solar panels, which contribute towards the electricity requirements of the house.

Visitors can walk along the Nature Trail at their own pace and see information boards which can help to explain some of the conservation projects whilst personally guided walking tours or Trailer Tours can also be arranged. Visit this page for more information of the various visit types.