Alastair Morbey’s family have farmed the Stuntney Estate for five generations. Since 1857, the family have worked tirelessly to nurture the land and preserve the quality and diversity of the wildlife.

The 2,500-acre farm was once partially underwater. Like his relatives, who devised the Fens’ innovative drainage system, Alastair has diligently cared for the land you see today.

The family had a vision for the estate: to create somewhere unique for people to meet, shop, explore and reconnect with nature. This vision has now become a reality with the opening of Ben’s Yard, an artisan rural retail village with independent shops, café and restaurant.

During this visit you will hear how the family embraced the challenges of this major farm diversification project, how they approached the complex planning process and ensured their plans remained on track throughout the development phase.

You will have an opportunity to join a guided walk around Ben’s Yard retail village, then follow the marked wildflower trails. Here you will traverse through fenland and woodland and skirt the crystal waters of the reservoir. Far-reaching views will capture the scale of the estate, a former island in the floodplains of the Fens.

This visit is courtesy of Cole Ambrose Ltd.

ITINERARY

9.30am Registration and refreshments
10.00am Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire AGM, update from a CLA Officer and welcome to the estate from Alastair Morbey
11.00am Guided tour of Ben’s Yard followed by walking tour of the nature trails 
1.00pm Two course lunch with wine 
2.30pm Shopping opportunities and depart

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This is a walking tour which will cover nearly two miles. However, there will be shorter route available for guests if preferred.

Wine is provided with lunch, however there will also be a paid bar available for additional refreshments.


HOW TO BOOK?

To book a place at this CLA event please click book now.

For more information please call 01638 590429 or email the East Office at east@cla.org.uk.