Family Farm Open Day to welcome the public in Wharfedale

Bolton Abbey Estate lies in Wharfedale within the Yorkshire Dales. A Monastery was created here in the 12^th century, and the land in this Dale has been farmed since that time. Today the estate has 48 tenanted farms including beef, sheep and dairy holdings.

On Sunday 31st August, the Yorkshire Dales Farmer Network will be holding a Family Farm Open Day at Bolton Park farm kindly hosted by farmer, Steven Crabtree and his family.  Funding from the Yorkshire Dales Farming in Protected Landscapes programme will enable the public to visit this working farm and learn more about the many benefits that farming brings to the area.

The Crabtree’s will be opening their farm to show case how they produce food, manage the landscape and natural environment, and run a sustainable farm business securing it for the next generation to continue.

Farmer Network coordinator Carol Moffat says “We think this event will be a very enjoyable family day out and we are keen to show the lengths that our farmers go to in order to put food on our tables. Our farmers are proud of this and rightly so”.

The Family Farm Day will include guided farm walks and talks looking at the sheep and cattle. There will also be practical demonstrations including sheep dog handling, dry stone walling, sheep shearing and much more. The event is FREE to all and includes light refreshments.

Farmer, Steven Crabtree says “Me and my family are really looking forward to welcoming everyone to our farm. These lands have been farmed for centuries, and we are the current custodians, producing food and looking after the landscape. I’m sure everyone who visits will have an enjoyable and informative day on the farm”.

The Family Farm Open Day takes place on Sunday 31^st August between 1pm and 4pm at Bolton Park Farm, Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6AW

An all-terrain wheelchair will also be available to use, but booking is essential. Please contact the Farmer Network on (01768) 868615