Farming in the Lake District

The Lake District's vast mountainous terrain is home to a long tradition of fell farming which has helped shape its iconic landscape. Together with farm tenants and commons rights holders, we are working to create a more resilient landscape which will benefit both wildlife and farming. Learn more about how we are looking after nature and keeping traditional farming methods alive here.

The farming calendar

Sustaining the Lake District's Farming History
It's great to see so many farmers restoring hedgerows in the Lake District landscape. These hedges, which replace ones that have been lost over time, provide food and shelter for wildlife and livestock. There are a range of grants available for farmers to restore hedges, and volunteers often give their time to help plant them on farms
Sustainable farming landscape restoration projects
Across the Lake District, farmers are taking part in landscape recovery projects and helping bring back traditional nature friendly practices. Take a look at just some of the exciting things here.

Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Borrowdale Rainforest National Nature Reserve
Find out more about the work we are doing to look after the Borrowdale Temperate Rainforest and why it has been declared a new National Nature Reserve.

Foundation for Commons Land and the Upland Commons Project
Did you know that 30% of the Lake District is Common Land? With only 3% of England still classed as commons, we are proud that this traditional land management practice still has a stronghold here. Click here to learn more about the Upland Commons Project, the history of commoning and what we are doing to make sure these important stretches of land continue to support people, livestock and wildlife as they have done for centuries.