Luddesdown Organic Farm, Kent
Gerry and Jill Minister farm 365 hectares in a picturesque north downs valley. They produce arable crops with beef cattle, vegetables and a woodland enterprise.
Organic suckler cows
The farm has a 90-cow suckler herd which lives in family groups. Each cow produces one calf a year. The cattle are reared on herb-rich pastures and high quality silage grown on the farm. By creating the best living conditions, the animals are stress-free and naturally healthy.
Conservation
Wildlife on the farm has increased noticably since conversion to organic production. Careful management of the downland pastures, hedge planting and woodland management helps preserve the delicate habitats. The Kent environment business of the year award 1998 was awarded to the farm for its integrated conservation, business and community work.
Research
Luddesdown works with Elm Farm Research Centre to provide visits, information and research findings on organic production for farmers and agricultural professionals. The farm is trialing 'stockless rotation'. This means no livestock is used for grazing and fertilising fields. Instead the farm composts and spreads farm wastes and green manures (like clover or vetch, grown specially for compost).
Marketing
Box scheme customers get a range of fresh, healthy organic vegetables delivered to their door. Thirty types of vegetable are grown and sold through this innovative marketing scheme. Luddesdown’s organic beef is also available, direct from the farm.
Arranging a visit
Farm trail open all year. The farm holds open days in the summer and guided tours are available for groups by prior arrangement. Please call the office for details.
How to get there
By train: Stations are nearby (about two miles) at Sole Street and Meopham.
By road: Luddesdown Organic Farm is located between Gravesend and Maidstone in Kent. From the A2, head for Cobham and then Luddesdown. The farmyard is situated in the centre of the hamlet near the public house. The roads around the farm are very narrow so please drive with care.
By bike: Find your route on the
Sustrans website
Contact details