Woodlands Farm

The native Lincoln Red Shorthorn, or Lincoln Red, began to emerge as a recognisable breed in the 18th century. Originally a dual purpose breed providing both beef and dairy products, the Lincoln Red's capacity to reach heavy weights and finish easily on grass ensured that emphasis came to be placed on beef production.

The Woodlands Herd was started in 2000 with the purchase of 12 in-calf cows from Mr CL Bemridge's Anwick Herd, near Lincoln. The Woodlands herd is organic and it is closed, meaning that we breed our own animals. The emphasis is on producing 100% pure native animals for local/direct sales, as well as to provide breeding. We now run about 70 cows on the farm, together with three pure bred bulls. Our herd forms an intrinsic part of the organic rotation.

At Woodlands Farm the highest animal welfare standards are followed. The cattle roam freely in family groups and weaning only takes place when the calves have outgrown their mothers. In this way stress is avoided. A small local abattoir is used to reduce travel time and after slaughter the meat is hung for two to three weeks to provide maximum flavour. Lincoln Red Beef was recently voted Britain's Best Beef in Country Life magazine.