While our glamping site rests until spring, life on the farm continues in full swing. Winter is a time of routine, preparation, and reflection. Though the fields may seem still, behind the scenes there’s plenty happening.
Caring for the Animals
The animals are at the heart of Warren Farm, and winter brings its own set of challenges. Sheep and cattle need extra attention as the temperatures drop. Animals are carefully managed, ensuring they have enough energy to prepare themselves for giving birth in the spring. Many of the sheep are away from the far, grazing on other land, to allow ours to rest. Water troughs are checked daily to make sure they haven’t frozen over. It’s a season of vigilance, where small tasks, like breaking ice on a water trough, checking gences or topping up hay can make all the difference.
Preparing for the Next Season
While the campsite rests, with some repairs and alterations taking place until late March, the farm never stops. Fences are repaired, around 2400 trees are being planted this winter to provide shelter and space for nature, and cropping plans are made for the spring. Winter is the time to get everything in order so that when the days lengthen, we’re ready to welcome both glampers and livestock into flourishing fields. It’s a season of groundwork, laying the foundations for the busy months to come.
Around 2400 trees are being planted this winter to provide shelter and space for nature
The Changing Landscape
The Mendips in winter are a sight to behold. Frost sparkles across the grasslands, and the rolling hills take on a muted beauty under low winter sun. On clear days, the views stretch for miles, with crisp air and a sense of stillness that feels almost magical. For those of us working here, it’s a reminder of why this landscape is so special (even when the winds bite and the mud clings to the wellies!).
Christmas on the Mendips – Festive Traditions at Warren Farm
We do gather for a Christmas meal, but we always eat in the evening. We have the routine work of caring for animals, but we also expect to receive phone calls from people out enjoying a Christmas day walk who may find problems, real or perceived. Sadly, more often than not, this will involve a dog being allowed to worry our sheep. But once its dark, we can relax and enjoy what’s left of the day.
Looking Ahead
Although Warren Farm doesn’t accomodate guests over the festive period, we’re already accepting bookings and looking forward to welcoming guests back in March. Winter gives us time to prepare, reflect, and maintain the farm. Spring will bring new life, fresh adventures, and the chance to share this beautiful corner of the Mendips once again.
Hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading about Christmas on the Mendips. From all of us at Warren Farm in Somerset, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a peaceful winter season.