We were delighted to see Whins Farm officially opened this week, marking an important new chapter for farming in Cumbria and an exciting opportunity for the next generation of farmers.

Herdy Co-Founder Spencer Hannah attended the opening on behalf of Herdy, following a donation from the HerdyFund, Herdy’s registered charity, towards the redevelopment of the farm. We’re proud to have played a small part in helping bring this remarkable project to life.

Nestled at the foot of the Howgill Fells, close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Whins Farm is a traditional upland hill farm spanning more than 60 acres. It has been transformed by the Addington Fund into a starter farm designed to give new entrants a valuable foothold in the agricultural industry.

The farm’s story is particularly special. Addington Fund became involved after the late Mary Blades left money in her Will with the wish that her farm should benefit a keen and enthusiastic young farmer. When a suitable buyer could not be found, Addington Fund stepped in, creating the opportunity for Whins Farm to have a new purpose while continuing its connection with farming.

Following its redevelopment, the farm now provides a modernised three-bedroom farmhouse, traditional agricultural buildings, yard space and access to fell grazing for up to 210 sheep. Sustainability has also been considered as part of the refurbishment, with solar panels and ground-source heating helping the property generate its own electricity and improve its energy efficiency.

The farm’s first tenants, Aine Devlin and Kieran Milburn, will begin their seven-year tenancy with their young daughter. For a new entrant, securing land and a viable route into farming can be incredibly challenging, making opportunities such as Whins Farm particularly important. 

At Herdy, we know how closely farming, landscape and rural communities are connected. The Lake District and surrounding upland areas are not simply beautiful places; they are working landscapes shaped and cared for by generations of farmers. Supporting the people who will continue that work is something we feel passionately about

Through the HerdyFund, we’re proud to support initiatives that make a positive difference to rural communities and the future of farming. Our contribution to Whins Farm is a small part of a much bigger effort, led by organisations and individuals committed to creating meaningful opportunities for new generations.

The official opening, attended by The Duchess of Edinburgh, was a fitting moment to recognise both the challenges facing agriculture and the innovation, determination and opportunity within the sector.

We’d like to congratulate Aine and Kieran as they begin their new farming journey, and thank the Addington Fund and everyone involved in bringing Whins Farm back into productive use.

We’re delighted that the farm’s next chapter is beginning — and even more delighted that the HerdyFund could help play a part in it.