The Herdwick Experience — Attraction in Great Britain

I booked a private experience for myself, two friends from London, my parents and a best friend and it was the highlight of the holiday! We have an annual week away together in the Lakes and always try to do something that gets us a better insight into local life, and the Herdwick Experience couldn’t have been more perfect.

The experience started with a really interesting and engaging talk with Jo about life with Herdwicks, how the breed has survived, how the farming cycle on the fell farm works opposed to normal farming, and much more. It was thoroughly fascinating and when we walk the fells from now on we can look at the Herdys and the farming in the lakes through new eyes.

After a great chat, and an introduction to a few of the four footed farm workers (wonderful dogs and cats), we went for a short stroll up to the field above the farm to meet the herd. It is quite hard to describe how unique a feeling it is to have sheep as friendly as these are come and meet you. The feeding is great fun, but the really great part is just sitting and relaxing surrounded by the flock. They sit with you, gently (mostly!) nudge for strokes and scratches and generally make you feel part of the flock. Put that together with the most beautiful views of the feels surrounding the farm and if you are in need of some calm and balance in your life this is just perfect. It may sound odd written down but sitting in a beautiful field leaning up against (and being leaned on) by a friendly Herdwick is something I recommend to anyone.

If you are in the Lakes and want something you can only do here, that makes you feel wonderful and educates you too, then if at all possible book this. It will make...

Blown away by the whole experience. Mel gave us an impassioned and hugely knowledgable talk about all things Herdwick, from their heritage to how they're reared and Beatrix Potter's tremendous determination to keep the breed going. Meeting the sheep was something else - they were so friendly and inquisitive, they love a fuss and were a joy to be with. It's amazing value and an experience like no other. I had worried that an hour presentation in the barn would feel too long (especially as I was giddy to see the sheep) but it was really fascinating and the time flew by. There were only 7 people on the session when we visited which felt the perfect amount so you could ask questions and get plenty of one-on-one Herdy time. Honestly wonderful. Money well spent for a Lake District experience with...

What a lovely experience. The first part included learning about sheep rearing, the heritage of the Herdwicks, the differences between commercially bred sheep and the Herdwicks (including their habitats, diets, wool differences), and the part I enjoyed most - learning the reasons and differences for the dye markings!

The second part is meeting the flock of friendly Herdwick sheep. They are all lovely, come to you of their own will, sit down next to you, and allow for all the scratches and cuddles.

Overall, a very enjoyable experience regardless of age. I would definitely recommend to anyone who has ever wondered about sheep on a hike/walk or as an experience to further improve the amazing location that is the...