The Dillay is a hidden microcosm, a blend of woodland, water and pasture that's been here for centuries. Its deep valleys are fringed with the tree boughs of climbing woodland - the name Dillay itself is mysterious but comes perhaps from the old English for branch (telg) or pot/tile (tigel) and for woodland clearing (leah). The farm is alive with springs which spill down to the valley bottoms, feeding the Dillay Brook and its alder and willow. These valleys are steep and rugged, so unsuitable for arable farming, but perfect for our hardy small Dexter cattle. The beech woods were bare hills over a century ago, grazed by sheep, but now they're majestic. It feels timeless here. The place quietly asks you to slow down and pay attention.

Dexters are incredible little characters. They're the smallest breed of cattle native to the British Isles, so they tread - relatively! - lightly and love to graze and forage on all terrain and in all weather. They're true community animals. Watching them interact is endlessly fascinating! They groom each other, babysit calves, scold the upstart yearlings, play, and generally look after one another. We let them live longer, more natural lives. Our stock animals do not leave us until they are at least four years of age, twice as long as the average herd, which is quite rare in modern UK farming. The longer and richer life they lead, the better the marbling of the beef and the richer its taste. It's slower, yes, but it's more pleasant for them and us - and the beef is phenomenal.