Please note: This event date has changed from 5th July to 19th July 2022.

The Midlands team are delighted to invite you to a bespoke visit for the Herefordshire Visit and AGM at Drover Rest Farm.

We are delighted to invite members to visit Drovers Rest Farm by kind permission of Paul and Kesri Smolas.

Paul and Kesri moved to the Farm in 2010 from London and the Corporate world. They have created a high-end self-catering space that both adults and families can enjoy. They are passionate about having a green and natural space, priding themselves on growing their own food organically and using organic and locally sourced products. They have a strong Eco Educational ethos and are previous winners of the Green Tourism Award.

They farm 40 acres, including woodland, meadows and orchards with a brook running through the farm. They back onto 150-acre common called Little Mountain where their livestock including sheep, mini boars and alpacas have grazing rights.  Kesri and Paul are passionate about wildlife and nature and are rewilding 50% of their farm and are collaboratively encouraging partners in Herefordshire to do the same.

The farm features self-catering cottages and cabin accommodation, glamping Safari Tents with private underfloor heated bathrooms and Pop-Up Bell Tents.

There are regular food nights, breakfast and cookery workshops. Fully catered events to allow guests to experience the lush organic produce from the farm kitchen and larder. Ingredients are ethically produced, directly from the fields, and cooked on outdoor open fires. Dining takes places in the converted barn, farm courtyard or outdoors in the fields, beneath the stars.

Workshops, events and training are provided on the Farm, centred around rural crafts, outdoor cooking and farming/smallholder skills.

PROGRAMME

The day will begin with the AGM being held in the barn, where you will also hear from CLA Vice President Gavin Lane and a Drovers Rest Farm speaker.

Pre-lunch drinks will be served followed by a two-course hot buffet lunch in the barn, followed by teas and coffees.

Members will enjoy tours of accommodation buildings including cottages and glamping and a farm walk.

After tours, members will return to the Barn for Tea, Coffee and cakes before departure at 3.45pm.