Crooked End Farm is a lovely organic holding in the Forest of Dean, looking across the Wye Valley across to the Black Mountains. Starting in April 2015, we are seeking a Land Partner to take on the growing enterprise at Crooked End Farm, and later in the year we will be looking for another Land Partner to take on the running of our beautiful farm shop, cafe and other retail activities.
We’ve currently got +4 acres under cultivation with market garden fruits and vegetables, 4 polytunnels and 2 small greenhouses, a small orchard, and potential to cultivate more. There is currently an emphasis on salad and leafy vegetables, and soft fruits. To complement the growing we have organic livestock on site and also at two nearby rented holdings. Produce is sold through our on-site farm shop, our delivery scheme, to local shops and wholesalers, and at local markets.
This is an opportunity for an enthusiastic and confident grower, and we will do everything we can to support the successful candidate. If you are interested in learning more, then contact Brenda at pennellfamily556@gmail.com, or come to our open day on Saturday 28th February to walk the course yourself, meet our current grower, and share your ideas.
The Small Print
Our Land Partners will run their own businesses, but will have access to all of the equipment and facilities on the farm. We make extensive use of WWOOF help, and would encourage you to as well! Accommodation is available, both for you and for the WWOOFers.
As we view this relationship very much as a partnership we are happy to offer the land and equipment rent free for an initial period while you establish your growing enterprise. You will also have access to our existing customers and equipment to help you on your journey. If you would like to add livestock or retail to your business portfolio, that can also be discussed.
We only insist that your growing complies with Soil Association Standards, and the partnership agreement will be a formal Farm Business Tenancy.
More details about the areas under cultivation
There are two main growing areas.
The smaller Top Growing Area is next to farm shop comprises raised beds, 2 polytunnels, coldframes, potting shed and 2 small greenhouses. There are also raspberry canes and a herb garden.
The Main Growing Area comprises 3 fields. One is under cultivation with mixed produce on a 4 year rotation plan plus a strawberry patch, the middle is under an alfalfa crop, and the third was cultivated last year and currently has winter garlic and onions.
There are also three small orchard areas, a watercress bed dug out of a natural spring, and a small field with soft fruits.
