As we move into February and emerge out of the depths of winter, changes are beginning to occur on the farm. It’s a welcome sound to hear birds starting to sing again in the early dawn, and the snowdrops peeking through the grass, a hopeful sign of the seasons to come on a cold, blustery winter’s day. January has provided the perfect opportunity for reflection, taking time to ponder any improvements we may wish to make for the year ahead.

As nature begins to awaken, we are getting ready to welcome some new residents to the farm too; a flock of sheep as well as some cattle. We have also been making some changes to the land surrounding the lodge site, planting native hedgerows and hedgerow trees, new fencing and several owl boxes due to be put up around the farm. Within these upgrades, we have also had an abundance of hedges laid, a traditional craft which has long been passed down through generations. Hedge laying plays a vital role in providing safe corridors for nature’s most vulnerable creatures, as well as becoming home to hibernating hedgehogs, mice and nesting birds. The hedgerows also provide a source of food to many mammals, birds and insects alike. The art of hedge laying is essential for protecting our wildlife from all manner of threats, and conserving our countryside for generations to come. We look forward to seeing the fields in bloom again in the Springtime, rich with a variety of pollinator-friendly wildflowers.

We are constantly looking for ways we can improve the experience for our guests at Rural Roosts. Our team have been busy carrying out our annual Spring cleans, which entails deep cleaning each lodge, making any necessary upgrades and updating our inventories ready for the year ahead. The hot tubs also have their yearly service, and surrounding grounds are maintained ready for the seasons shifting. A wonderful way to reset for the coming year, ready to welcome many new and returning guests.