The Herd
We have a total of 70 cows in our mixed breed dairy herd. Each cow has it’s own name based on its character and ancestry. Our breeds include: Gloucester, Holstein, Brown Swiss, Normande, Montbeliarde and Meuse Rhine Issel. We have been a closed herd for many years; this means that we breed our own calves to ensure herd longevity as well as maintaining our bio-security.
Gloucester
The Gloucester cattle are an ancient breed who once were on the verge of extinction. Famed for their large sweeping horns, dark colouring and white stripe running down the back and hind legs, these dual-purpose cows are good mothers.
Gloucester cattle are an essential part of the herd for making Single Gloucester Cheese.
Holstein Friesian
Holstein Friesian are a large breed of dairy cattle, with a high milk yield. They are identifiable by their sharply defined black and white spotted markings.
Brown Swiss
Brown Swiss cattle have one of the largest bodies. These dual purpose cows have a high fat to protein ratio in the milk which helps the cheese making process. Brown Swiss are light brown in colour and have a creamy white muzzle with a dark nose.
Normande
Normande are dual purpose cows. They are raised for their milk which is high in fat so suitable to make butter and cheese. The meat is well flavoured and marbled. These cows have a red or black-pied coats.
Montbeliarde
Montbeliarde cows are red and white in colour. They have a white head and light muzzle. Whilst these cows can have a lower milk yield than Holsteins, they have better lifespan and fertility. The milk from these cows is usually used for cheese making.
Meuse Rhine Issel
MRI are a medium sized breed with a solid build. They are red and white in colour. These cows have good disease resistance and are very docile. MRI cattle have a high milk quality, high protein levels and a good yield.