Things are looking up and we are drying out
Things are looking up and we are drying out
At Uppertown Farm, we hold the belief that holidays are a special occasion to celebrate life, love, and family. Our mission is centered around providing valuable resources, creative ideas, and inspiration to assist you in making the most of your holiday experiences. Whether you're seeking tips for creating memorable moments with loved ones or looking for innovative holiday ideas, we are dedicated to being a source of support and guidance. Uppertown Farm is committed to enhancing your holiday celebrations, making them meaningful and joyous occasions for you and your family.
Uppertown Farm is a family-run working farm owned and operated by Paul Kirkham and his wife, Amy. Together with their two children, they are dedicated to maintaining both the farm and the caravan site in top-notch condition. The Kirkham family works hard to ensure that the farm thrives, providing a welcoming and well-maintained environment for visitors to the caravan site. Their commitment to excellence is evident in the care they put into both the agricultural aspects of the farm and the facilities for those staying at the caravan site. The Kirkhams take pride in their work, creating a harmonious balance between running a successful farm and providing a delightful experience for guests.
The Kirkham family has owned the farm since 1937, spanning four generations. In the early 80s, a significant portion of the land was lost to Carsington Water, marking a turning point in the farm's landscape. Today, the focus is on raising beef animals, predominantly Limousin cross cows and a pedigree Limousin bull.
The rhythm of life on the farm follows the cycle of the seasons. Sheep, mainly Mule, give birth in February and April, and a select few are pedigree Texels. The dedication to working with nature is evident in the meticulous preservation of stone walls and the maintenance of extensive hedgerows. These hedgerows not only lend character to the landscape but also serve as crucial habitats for nesting birds and various wildlife.
The Kirkhams take pride in their stewardship of the land, embracing sustainable practices that harmonize with the natural environment. With a legacy dating back over eight decades, the farm stands as a testament to the family's commitment to agriculture, conservation, and the delicate balance between tradition and progress.
Carsington Water, located in Derbyshire, England, has a rich history that spans both natural and human interventions. Originally a valley with a river, the area underwent a transformation in the early 1970s when plans were set in motion to create a reservoir to meet the increasing water demands of the region. Construction began in 1979, and by 1992, Carsington Water had become one of the largest reservoirs in England.
The reservoir project wasn't without controversy, as it resulted in the flooding and loss of approximately half of the Kirkham family farm in the early 1980s. Carsington Water has since become a popular destination for water-based recreational activities, including sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. Its 8-mile-long perimeter provides scenic walking and cycling trails, attracting both locals and tourists.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Carsington Water serves a vital role in water management, providing a sustainable supply for agriculture and local communities. The reservoir stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human development and environmental conservation, showcasing how landscapes can evolve and serve multiple purposes over time.
The primary focus on the Kirkham family farm is the cultivation of beef animals, with an emphasis on Limousin cross cows and a pedigreed Limousin bull. This strategic breeding approach ensures a quality lineage for the cattle herd. By prioritizing these breeds, the Kirkhams aim to maintain high standards in the production of beef, combining tradition with modern breeding techniques to sustain a thriving and healthy livestock population on their farm.
The farm's sheep undergo lambing in February and April, with the majority being Mule breeds. Additionally, the Kirkham family proudly raises a select number of pedigree Texels. This carefully planned breeding season ensures a staggered lambing period, contributing to the overall health and productivity of the flock. The combination of Mule and Texel breeds reflects a thoughtful approach to sheep farming, balancing traditional practices with a focus on quality and genetic diversity. This commitment to responsible breeding aligns with the family's dedication to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices on their multi-generational farm.