At The Organic Butchery, we believe that great meat starts long before it reaches the block. It begins on the farm, with the people, the land, and the care that goes into raising every animal. Our recent visit to Bowden Farm on Dartmoor was a perfect reminder of just how important these connections are.

Located less than an hour from our butchery in Devon, Bowden Farm plays a vital role in our commitment to low food miles and local sourcing. We have worked closely with Russell Ashford and his family for many years, sourcing both organic lamb and beef from the farm. This longstanding relationship is built on trust, shared values, and a deep understanding of what it means to produce high-quality organic meat.

Russell and his family have been traditionally farming at Bowden Farm since the 1950s, transitioning to organic farming in 1997. Their experience and dedication are evident in everything they do. The farm is home to Aberdeen Angus and British Blue cattle, as well as Scotch Blackface sheep—breeds well suited to the Dartmoor landscape and known for producing flavourful, high-quality meat.

During our visit, we were fortunate to witness lambing season in full swing. Seeing new life on the farm is always special, and meeting some of the Scotch Blackface lambs just hours after they were born was a real highlight. Moments like these offer a powerful insight into the care and attention that goes into organic farming.

Walking the fields, we saw the animals exactly as they should be, grazing freely on organic pasture, expressing natural behaviours, and thriving in their environment. This is at the heart of organic farming: giving animals space, a natural diet, and a life that prioritises welfare. It’s something we value deeply, and seeing it first-hand reinforces why we are so passionate about the food we produce.

Organic beef and lamb benefit enormously from this way of farming. Cattle that graze on pasture develop a rich, deep flavour, while slower growth allows the meat to mature naturally. Similarly, organic lamb raised on grass has a clean, delicate taste that reflects both the landscape and the season. These are qualities that simply cannot be rushed or replicated.

Visits like this are more than just a day on the farm, they are an essential part of maintaining the close relationship between butcher and farmer. By staying connected, we ensure that the standards we promise are upheld every step of the way, from field to fork.

Our partnership with Bowden Farm is something we are incredibly proud of. It represents everything we stand for: local sourcing, high welfare, sustainability, and a genuine connection to the land.

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