Story
Fell to Farm
Jostling for space and silent as they go, pregnant Herdwick ewes make their way along the narrow lane from the hamlet of Stonethwaite in Borrowdale. Gathered from their mountain heft in the Langstrath Valley, they’re heading back to Nook Farm in nearby Rosthwaite for lambing time. They know the way—passed down through centuries of generations before them.
These road-going flocks, making their essential journey from fell to farm, are a
welcome sight—though now seldom seen. With shepherds and dogs in close
attendance, it’s always a joy to watch them pass. I love that in the Lake District, there are still places where you’re expected to stop and give way to Herdwicks, whatever the reason for their travels. After all, they were walking these routes long before the motor car ever arrived. Some old ways, thankfully, still hold firm.
A National Trust Property | Photo Permissions kindly granted | Picture © Ian Lawson
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