Colham Farm

Castle Combe, Wiltshire

• Spend a relaxing hour walking the farm trail,
• Experience the majestic beech trees
• Look out for the Highland cattle.
• Start the trail in Castle Combe village

Colham Farm Sheltered in a hidden valley and surrounded by steep wooded hills, Colham organic farm enjoys a wonderful location. The picturesque village of Castle Combe forms the start and end of the farm trail and provides the opportunity for an extended visit to an unspoilt medieval village. Encouraging bio-diversity Broadleaved woodland forms a large proportion of the farm and is managed with nature conservation in mind. Since 1989, over 40,000 trees have been planted to create new habitats for insects, animals and birds - a haven for beneficial predators to help control harmful pests in the organic system. Conserving natural resources Green waste from the surrounding area is recycled in the compost heap and the goodness returned to the land as a natural fertiliser. No chemical fertilisers or pesticides are used on the farm so there are no poisons to pollute the soil and water. Improving the quality of life Spend a relaxing hour walking the farm trail, experience the majestic beech trees and look out for the Highland cattle. Enjoy the circular walk around the farm. Pick up a trail guide and climb the hill towards Parsonage Wood.

The farm trail starts opposite the Dower House, just a few yards from the Market Cross in Castle Combe. From the footpath, high in Parsonage wood, there are splendid views of the village (before the leaves are fully out). Behind you, as you face the village, you will see a variety of pig breeds and further away the composting site. Follow the footpath down into the By Brook valley. This meadow is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Resident species include the green winged meadow orchid.

What to look out for

Organic beef, sheep and pigs
The animals on the farm are kept with their best welfare interest at heart. A variety of pig breeds are kept including Berkshire, Hampshire and Saddlebacks. Beef cows suckle their calves on the permanent pasture and the distinctive Highland cattle bring a Scottish flavour to the Bybrook valley.

Ancient Woodland
Indicator species such as dog's mercury and bluebell show that the woodlands at Colham farm date back to the primeval forest. Active management enhances their wildlife value and continues the tradition of hazel coppicing to make sheep pens and hurdles.

Composting
Recyling of green waste at Colham Farm solves two problems: it provides an environmentally friendly way of recycling garden waste from the local community and restores much needed fertility ot the soil.

Guided Tours
Informal access to the trail is available at all times. The Bybrook Trust Education Officer, Kathy Jordan, is available by arrangement to guide groups around the farm. please call 01225 331858 to find out more details.

When visiting the farm, please keep all dogs on leads, for the benefit of wildlife.

Links:
The Soil Association
Organic Research
WWF report
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust