Bridge Farm, Lincolnshire
Bridge farm is situated in the beautiful Lincolnshire countryside in the low carr land adjacent to the New River Ancholme and comprises 37 acres of mainly grassland. It dates back to at least 1800 and in more recent times the old barns have been converted into a milking parlour and dairy.
Livestock
Our small herd of Golden Guernsey goats produce the creamy milk to make our organic cheeses. These, together with our fresh organic vegetables, are sold direct to the customer through local farm shops and farmers’ markets. Kune Kune pigs and an array of poultry complete the livestock.
Wildlife and historical interest
The extensive grassland provides habitat for a wide range of farmland birds, including lapwing, skylark, grey partridge, linnet and songthrush. The proximity of the river attracts such birds as kingfisher, reed bunting, reed and sedge warblers and several dabbling and diving duck species.
We have planted native trees, replanted hedgerows which had been grubbed out years ago, laid hedges and created a large wildlife pond. All of these have enhanced the food and habitat resource for our birds, insects and small mammals. In 2010 southern marsh and common spotted orchids have been found in our community orchard for the first time.
The New River Ancholme was dug out in the mid-17th century as a means of improving the drainage of the carr lands. In the mid-18th century Harlam Lock was built and the river continued to be used for transport. In recent years the Lock has been refurbished for use by boats and recreation.
Education and visits
Through Bridge Farm Links, a social enterprise company, we provide alternative education for young people with a range of disabilities to enable them to develop their skills and improve their chances in life. Our workshops open to the general public include growing vegetables and fruit organically, rural skills and conservation techniques. We have a one acre community orchard and a community allotment site.
We hold open days and encourage group visits to help everyone to learn about and enjoy the richness of the countryside and understand how the best food is produced.
How to get there
By train: Market Rasen station is 8 miles. Scunthorpe station is 15 miles.
By road: Bridge Farm is situated 5 miles east of the A15, 1½ miles east of the village of Snitterby, and right on the west bank of the New River Ancholme.
By bike: Find your route on the Sustrans website
Contact details