The cows are back! Andrew, and Fiona from the farm shop, plus both their families, herded them down the lane one evening, watched by the guests in our lodges.  The cows will stay in the big field now until we need them to graze the nature reserve at the end of the summer.

They're a mixture of traditional Devon Red cattle and a cross. Most of these 10 are destined for the table eventually. That doesn't appeal to everyone, but without farming we wouldn't have the countryside we know and love. We certainly can't maintain Popehouse Moor SSSI without traditional grazing (sheep eat the wrong stuff and, ponies aren't heavy enough to break up the tussocks).

Farming and conservation, particularly cows and badgers, don't always go together, but Fiona and Andrew have a good attitude.

So if you come to Devon and you eat meat, look out for local produce and traditional breeds. By supporting farmers like our neighbours your shopping bill helps conserve the countryside you've come to see!