June was an exciting month at Castle Howard with the arrival of Gareth Barlow’s Howardian Hebrideans.

If you have been following Gareth’s story on BBC1’s Countryfile and on BBC Radio 4's Farming Today, you will be aware that at the age of nineteen he is trying to start his own farm from scratch.  Gareth, who is not from a farming family, and who has no family land available, has been looking for grazing land to expand his flock of rare breed Hebridean sheep. 

On hearing of the story, Simon Howard thought that Castle Howard offered an ideal location for such a flock, and such an enterprising young man, especially as Gareth works as a trainee butcher in the Castle Howard Farm Shop.  The Hebrideans make an impressive sight and can now be seen grazing on land around the Obelisk. 

Gareth has been selling his Hebridean lamb through the Farm Shop Butchery for a few months, and it’s already a big success with customers, who enjoy the lean rich flavoured meat.  Head Butcher Geoff Speight said “It’s a great addition to our range of Howardian Hills sourced meats.  You really can’t get more local than that!”

Geoff and his team, when not busy training Gareth in butchery techniques, are on hand to share their expert knowledge and will be delighted to advise you on the best cuts and deals for your summer parties and BBQs.

There will further coverage of Gareth’s progress on BBC Radio 4’s Farming Today as well as BBC1’s Countryfile, when they take a closer look at the Howardian Hills in an episode to be transmitted on Sunday 4th July.

Find out more about Gareth's Hebrideans.

Castle Howard's Farm Shop is open daily from 10am until 5pm - with free admission.