; Owned and run by husband and wife team, Jason and Sarah Spence, and with help from daughter Jessica; Nutshell flock is family affair in rural Gloucestershire. Our farming ethos is to use natural , high wefare and sustainable farming methods, which reduce our impact on the environment, as well as effect the flavour of our meat product. Striving for our farm to be a good place for nature, the animals and the environment. Our aim is reduce the use of chemicals on the farm as much as possible, and where it is possible we aim to use orgainc or natural products on the flock; and by lambing outdoors there is no routine use of antibiotics on the farm. With a primary flock of MV acredited LLeyn and LLeyn crosses; and more recently a small flock of pedigree and MV acredited Southdowns, we pride ourselves on keeping a high welfare, traditional flock, year round at grass. We have a low input farming system with lambs that are April born to coincide with fresh new spring grass, and are raised slowly to a natural finish. The flock graze a variety of pastures, allowing lambs to grow at their own pace with no additional feeding. Mineral licks are available to lambs and ewes to ensure access to all their required nutritional needs. Lamb raised at grass is the most environmentally friendly source of red meat; it is also extremely nutrient dense as it is high in key vitamins and minerals: it is an excellent source of b vitamins, especially B12, iron, phosphorus, selenium and zinc. lamb is a surprising source of omega 3 fatty acids. Pasture fed animals are an excellent source of omega 3, the good fat which helps to prevent heardisease, dementia, arthritis and depression. We aim to enhance the flavour of the meat through our choice of breed, and minimal handling. By using the Southdown ram as a terminal sire, and the stress free environment in which the sheep live, we are able to produce an exceptionally tasty meat product that is not only high in nutrients, but also has the correct fat content to ensure an outstanding flavour.
The Lleyn breed is extremely maternal, making the ewes exceptional mums, with plenty of milk. While the Southdown is the oldest of the terminal sire breeds in the UK. The breeds ease of lambing, docility, and ease of finishing make them the perfect asset to the farm flock.
We believe that there is a disconnect between society and the food they eat, and strive to produce an ethical meat product that is available to the local community. In this regard, we are extrememly proud of our partnership with Eastington Farm Shop, whom we supply directly with our lamb. We are very fortunate to be within a few miles of a small, family run ,local abattoir. All our meat lambs are processed here, which significantly reduces stress related to travelling. Lamb boxes are also available to buy direct from us, but as with all seasonal produce these are only available occasionally and to be added to our lamb box list, please do contact us directly.
Occasionally sheep are also available for sale. Please see the sheep for sale page.
The Lleyn breed is extremely maternal, making the ewes exceptional mums, with plenty of milk. While the Southdown is the oldest of the terminal sire breeds in the UK. The breeds ease of lambing, docility, and ease of finishing make them the perfect asset to the farm flock.
We believe that there is a disconnect between society and the food they eat, and strive to produce an ethical meat product that is available to the local community. In this regard, we are extrememly proud of our partnership with Eastington Farm Shop, whom we supply directly with our lamb. We are very fortunate to be within a few miles of a small, family run ,local abattoir. All our meat lambs are processed here, which significantly reduces stress related to travelling. Lamb boxes are also available to buy direct from us, but as with all seasonal produce these are only available occasionally and to be added to our lamb box list, please do contact us directly.
Occasionally sheep are also available for sale. Please see the sheep for sale page.