Lake District, England
The Lake District, located in the northwest of England in the county of Cumbria, is a breathtaking national park. This area is renowned for its spectacular landscapes, including high mountains, deep valleys, shimmering lakes, and rolling green hills.
A notable presence in the Lake District is the Herdwick sheep, which are specifically adapted to the rugged conditions of the mountains. They graze on the slopes and contribute to the biodiversity and open character of the landscape.
Some of the beautiful locations in the Lake District include picturesque lakes such as Windermere, the largest natural lake in England, and Ullswater. Additionally, Coniston Water is a well-known lake, famous for its historical ties with the writer John Ruskin. The Hardknott Pass, one of the steepest roads in England, offers a challenging yet stunning route through rugged terrain, with panoramic views of the valleys and mountains.
The Lake District is a living testament to the harmonious interplay between nature and traditional agricultural practices. The presence of Herdwick sheep has helped preserve and protect this unique landscape, making it one of the most cherished and iconic regions in England.
Rural Life
Farms in Northern England, particularly in areas like the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales, maintain a traditional lifestyle. Here, farmers continue as they always have, focusing on livestock, especially sheep, and small-scale agriculture. Rural life is closely connected with nature and seasonal rhythms:
Late November: Tupping rams are introduced to the ewes in the valleys (in-bye) for mating.
Around Christmas: The ewes are moved back to the mountain pastures (fell).
April: In the warmer spring, the ewes return to the valley to lamb, 150 days after mating.
May: Ewes with single lambs return to the fell, while ewes with twins stay in the valley until shearing.
Late July: The sheep are sheared.
September: Lambs are weaned. Young rams are sold. Young ewes (gimmers) overwinter on lowland farms and return to the fell in the spring, where they find their territory and continue the cycle.
Sheep Gathering
A gathering is a traditional event where farmers work together to collect sheep with the help of border collies. This happens five times a year:
In early spring, farmers bring their sheep down from the mountains to the farm for lambing. Pregnant ewes stay on the farm, while yearlings return to the mountains. After lambing in late spring, ewes and lambs are tagged and treated, after which they go back to the mountains.
In July, the first major sheep gathering takes place for shearing. In late summer, lambs are weaned and sheep are dewormed. In the autumn, lambs are sorted for sale or retention, and older ewes are separated for sale. Breeding ewes are either sent back to the mountains or to smaller areas.
Beatrix Potter
Beatrix Potter (1866-1943), renowned for her beloved children's books such as "The Tale of Peter Rabbit," had a deep connection with the Lake District. She moved to this region and purchased several farms, including Hill Top Farm, where she wrote many of her stories.
Beatrix Potter played a crucial role in preserving the landscape and traditional farming practices. She was a passionate advocate for Herdwick sheep. Beatrix Potter bred and protected these sheep, which are vital for maintaining the unique landscape.
Her efforts led to the transfer of much of her land to the National Trust, securing its future. Through her legacy, Beatrix Potter has had an indelible impact on the conservation of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Lake District.
Interested?
For captivating stories and stunning images that beautifully capture traditional farming and rural life in these regions, the following books are recommended. They illustrate the challenges, joys, and timeless traditions of country living.
James Rebanks: "The Shepherd's Life"
Helen Rebanks: "The Farmer's Wife"
Amy Grant: "Forty Farms"
Ian Lawson: "Herdwick: A Portrait of Lakeland"
