Our story began in 1985 with a simple belief: that farming should work in harmony with nature, not against it. From the farm's origins to the present day you can trace our journey here.
How it all began
David and Juliet Fenton moved to Honour Farm in 1985, and in time to come would take on Silcocks Farm, Goldwell Farm and Childrens Farm, giving us the entity of ‘Silcocks Farm’ that we know today.
Beginning with a selection of different cattle breeds, they soon encountered the Traditional Hereford and recognised its rarity. Direction soon shifted towards preserving this breed, leading them to join the Hereford Society in 1988.
The Herefords were named the “Boresisle Herd” by the Fenton family in recognition of St Michaels’ origins as a small hamlet known as Boresisle as early as 1757. The area’s name can be traced back even further, appearing as “Burwarsile” in 1226 and evolving through various forms, including “Boars Isle,” before “St Michaels” was gradually adopted following the establishment of the new parish in 1864.
Through the breeding of Traditional Herefords at Silcocks Farm, we’ve produced high quality, pedigree stock that have gone on to establish and strengthen numerous herds across the country.
The farm initially bred Romney sheep, before transitioning to Poll Dorset in 2000. This change was driven by their ability to lamb out of season as well as their suitability for the land. In recent years, however, the entire flock has returned to a spring lambing system.
The decision to breed Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs was driven by both their rare status and the farm’s commitment to conserving traditional livestock breeds. As one of Britain’s historic pig breeds, their numbers had significantly declined, placing them at risk.
At its outset the farm was primarily focused on the growth of its livestock herds and flocks, with an emphasis on quality stock with impeccable bloodlines. Over the years the farm regularly took animals to local and county shows, earning notable success and taking great pride in its achievements in the show ring.
The move to organic farming
The farm was officially certified as organic in 1998 and we’ve never looked back.
Organic farming was a natural choice, driven by a deep respect for the environment and a genuine passion for working alongside nature rather than against it. It means that ecosystems are protected and wildlife is allowed to flourish. We adhere to the standards set by the Soil Association and are part of Countryside Stewardship and Sustainable Farming Schemes.
Our animals are raised without routine antibiotics or synthetic hormones, fed a natural diet, and cared for under high welfare standards—resulting in sustainably produced meat of exceptional quality.
The foundation of organic farming at Silcocks is our permanent pasture, which is managed as a living soil system rather than a short-term production surface. Grazing livestock move through the land in carefully planned rotations, allowing grasslands to recover and deepen their root structures between grazing periods.
Instead of intensive inputs, the health of the land is maintained through the relationship between grazing animals, soil biology, and seasonal growth cycles.
As relatively few farms commit to organic methods, this approach not only reflects our values but also sets us apart, making what we do both distinctive and meaningful.
The farm also encompasses Turners Field – a 27 acre nature reserve, which we manage alongside Kent Wildlife Trust.
A haven for birds and wildlife it has a diverse mixture of grasses such as pepper saxifrage, black knapweed and bird’s-foot trefoil. With an iconic ancient oak tree at its centre, the woodland areas also include a mix of alder, hornbeam, oak and hazel, interspersed with hawthorn and blackthorn.
Sharing the passion for organic
Established in 2003 within the farm’s original buildings, our butchery, farm shop, and café marked the beginning of our farm to fork ethos.
This expansion opened the farm up to the local area. Over the years the butchery has built a loyal community of customers who share our commitment to organic meat.
The café quickly grew into a welcoming hub—where locals gathered, cyclists paused to recharge, and walkers found the perfect finishing point after exploring the Wealden countryside.
In time, farm open days and summer fairs would become key dates in the village diary, drawing in the community to meet animals up close and enjoy guided tractor rides around the farm.
The farm added three beehives in 2015. They produce honey for the shop while also boosting pollination of our fruit trees and wildflowers. In 2025, dedicated areas of wildflower seeds were planted to encourage greater diversity of insects, bees, and butterflies.
Part of our woodland areas were certified as organic in 2024 by the Soil Association, allowing our Gloucester Old Spot pigs inhabit this area. This move is not only beneficial for them, but their natural foraging helps enrich soil, increase biodiversity, and manage the woodland.
Farming & community
Silcocks Farm is a place for people, as much as it is for our animals. We are creating ways for the local community to connect directly with the land through seasonal events and involvement in local conservation programmes.
We want this to be a place where people can experience and understand the farm and landscape first hand. We’d love to have mapped out walking routes through key locations and habitats, along with the opportunity to provide more information for younger visitors to learn about organic farming, animals, and nature in an engaging and hands-on way.
Opening our function room to local charities for their events and celebrations is something we’re truly proud to do—supporting and celebrating the incredible work within our community.
We’re passionate about building strong relationships with fellow rural businesses and are keen to collaborate more closely with those who share our values—whether through events, showcasing local produce, or creating new opportunities together.
Ultimately our aim is to carry forward the work begun decades ago, grounded in a commitment to organic farming and the preservation of rare breeds. At the same time, we look ahead—seeking new ways to grow our business, deepen our connection with the community, and to continue evolving as a sustainable enterprise.
Our Breeds
Our animals are an important part of the farm, each chosen to suit the landscape and the way we work.
Traditional Hereford cattle are a hardy, medium sized British beef breed characterised by their red and white colouring and long horns. The original herds originate from 1800’s Herefordshire and the Welsh Marches. Known for their docile temperament, easy handling and longevity, with cows able to produce calves at up to 14 years of age.
Herefords were widely exported during the 19th and 20th centuries, and, in time were imported back to the UK to make the breed more able to compete against continental beef breeds. However, these imported Herefords became so popular that the native bloodlines became endangered.
The breed represents a balance of heritage, hardiness and efficiency. Making them a valuable breed for conservation and sustainable beef production. Valued for their original bloodlines they are still also considered ‘At Risk’ by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. Hereford cows typically weigh between 450–550 kg and bulls 750–850 kg.
Gloucester Old Spot pigs are an old English heritage breed originating from the shores of the River Severn in Gloucestershire. They are broad bodied pigs with large lop ears, being predominantly white with clearly defined black spots – at least one spot is required for registry acceptance.
The breed is known for its hardiness, gentle nature and maternal instincts – with an average litter size of 9 piglets. They thrive outdoors, and are excellent foragers, making them perfect for diversifying farming systems. From having very low population numbers in the 20th century, it is now the largest numerically of the pig breeds listed by The Rare Breeds Survival Trust.
Traditionally kept in apple and pear orchards, rural folklore says that the spots on their backs are bruises from the falling fruit! Sows weigh around 280kg, with boars growing to 350kg.
The Poll Dorset Sheep originates from the Dorset Horn Sheep, one of the earliest recorded breeds of British Sheep. They are a medium to large, muscular sheep with a long lean square body and broad head. Their wool is sought after for its density and springiness.
Poll Dorset Ewes are excellent mothers and their lambs are quick growing and resilient. In general the breed is easy to handle, hardy and versatile. Developed in Australia around 1937 the poll gene was introduced into Dorset Horn flocks to create a true hornless Dorset type. It was imported to the UK in the 1950’s and swiftly gained popularity.
By 1974, the number of registered Poll Dorsets surpassed Dorset Horns. Ewes weigh between 68-91kg and mature rams between 113-125kg.
Gloucester cattle are a rare and ancient breed. Originating from the Severn Vale as early as the 13th century, valued both for beef and milk – making the famous Double Gloucester Cheese. A medium sized docile breed, with a brown black body, black head and legs, and fine wide horns. A white stripe passes from the small of the back over the tail and down over the udder, covering the belly.
Gloucester cattle have a turbulent history with numbers fluctuating throughout the centuries, nearing extinction at various times. The breed was hit hard by ‘cattle plagues’ as well more modern epidemics like foot and mouth disease, not to mention the introduction of other breeds and more intensive farming methods.
However, the persistence of The Gloucester Cattle Society and Rare Breeds Survival Trust means that there are now around 700 breeding females in the UK. The Gloucester cow weighs between 450-500kg, with Bulls somewhere between 750-850kg.
At Silcocks Farm, we take pride in raising our animals with care and producing food that reflects our values of quality, sustainability and respect for nature.
Quality Produce, Raised with Care
Butchery
Our Butchery offers a wide variety of joints and cuts, all organic and reared on the farm, alongside a friendly team ready to help.
Farm Shop
Our farm shop brings together fresh produce and carefully selected goods that reflect the best of our farm and local suppliers.
Café
Our café is a relaxed and welcoming space where everyone is invited to enjoy good food, great coffee and time well spent.