Courtyard Farm, Norfolk
Courtyard Farm lies in the beautiful north Norfolk countryside, a short distance from the sea. The farm is fully organic and the positive effects are being seen in all sorts of ways. Not only the huge increase in the numbers of birds, butterflies and animals, but the soil has literally come back to life – a multitude of worms, insects and moles being evidence of its health. With around 10 miles of public footpaths and circular walks, you can always see the farm animals, how they are treated and what they eat. You will also be able to enjoy the wildlife, far-reaching views and ‘land art’ created by local artists. Visit the farm to find out more…
Organic cattle and sheep
The Red Poll is a traditional East Anglia breed and its beef is noted for its quality, texture and flavour. The cattle are raised on grass rich in wild flowers and conserved grass (silage) in the winter. In the autumn, lambs are bought from an organic farm in Cumbria to be fattened on Courtyard Farm’s clover pastures. These Swaledale sheep are a native hill breed and, following a centuries-old tradition, are moved south for ‘finishing’.
Organic pigs
The pigs are a cross between a Duroc boar and Saddleback sows, suited to a life in the open air, and maturing slowly to produce tastier meat. Eating the best organic feeds, rooting around in rich organic soil, the pigs produce pork, bacon and sausages of exceptional quality and flavour. They live in family groups in tents with straw bedding and have plenty of space to run about.
Wildlife
The farm is rich in wildlife and following conversion to organic farming, hares have increased threefold, skylarks fourfold and there are five times as many English partridges.
Farm shop
Meat is sold direct from the farm, either pre-ordered or through the farm shop that is open every Wednesday from 12 noon to 3pm. The cattle, sheep and pigs are taken to a Soil Association registered abattoir 20 minutes from the farm to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare. Jointed and packed by a local butcher, the meat is ready for fresh use or freezer storage. Call Lucy Galer on 01485 525251 to check what is available or to arrange to collect your order at a different time.
Bunkhouse Barn
Basic sleeping accommodation is available in a converted barn. Bunk beds, cooking rings, toilets, showers, kettle and fridge are provided; bring sleeping bags, towels and utensils. £10 per person per night; sleeps 12. Horses and dogs welcome. Open all year. £7 per horse per night (stables or paddocks); £5 per person staying in own horsebox/lorry or for tents. Contact Lucy Galer on 01485 525251.
Land Art
In 1999 two artist were commissioned by the Courtyard Farm Trust to create permanent artworks in disused marl pits on the farm. ‘Carstone Shale Wall and Boulder’ was created by John Sands and ‘Chalky Void (absence and presence)’ is by Martha Winter.  Â
Arranging a visit  Â
Thousands of people enjoy walking the waymarked trails at Courtyard Farm each year. Please keep dogs under control or on leads at all times to avoid disturbing wildlife and vulnerable ground-nesting birds. Guided walks and school visits are available by prior appointment – please contact Peter Melchett at the farm (Courtyard Farm, Ringstead, Hunstanton, Norfolk, PE36 5LQ) for details. The waymarked walks are open all day throughout the year.  Â
How to get there  Â
Courtyard Farm is located two miles to the east of the village of Ringstead near Hunstanton. Car parks for walkers can be found on the Ringstead-Cholsey road, and off the Ringstead-Docking road. A National Cycle Network route (see link below) crosses the farm.  Â
By bike: Find your route on the
Sustrans website        Â
Contact details