Rob and Sarah Davies along with their son Jack farm The Lawley Hill in South Shropshire, where rugged terrain and open heathland provide the perfect environment for their herd of Highland cattle. Their land forms part of a designated Local Wildlife Site, rich in biodiversity and iconic within the Shropshire landscape. The cattle are left to forage naturally across heathland and rough pasture, playing a vital role in maintaining species-rich habitats and helping to preserve the ecological value of the hill while producing high-quality, pasture-fed beef. The cattle and sheep enterprises contribute to the mixed farming system that sustains both productivity and conservation. Beef is sold directly from the farm to local customers, providing fully traceable, locally produced meat. By shortening the supply chain, they retain added value within the farm business while offering customers a clear connection to the landscape their food comes from. Rob is also a director of the Upper Onny Farmers CIC helping encourage best practice, innovation and peer support in the local area.
Additional farm info:
The farm is 800 acres
34 Highland cows and their followers (approx 100 in herd altogether)
1300 Romtex breeding ewes
Our Projects
Beef expansion
Rob and Sarah wanted to expand on their Highland beef enterprise and were successfully awarded a grant from the Shropshire Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme to do this. The project included alterations to an existing farm building to house a cold store, sorting area, and a customer-facing collection point for beef boxes. The grant has also supported the installation of kitchen facilities, a display refrigerator, and the purchase of a refrigerated trailer to ensure the safe and efficient transport of meat between the farm, abattoir, butchers, and farmers’ markets. These improvements are enabling Rob and Sarah to supply more of their beef directly to local customers, reducing food miles and strengthening the connection between farm and community. By processing, storing and selling their produce on site, they can offer high-quality, locally produced food with a lower environmental impact, keeping more value within the local area while supporting sustainable land management.
Restoration of Wildlife Pond
This project was funded by the Shropshire Hills Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) programme to enhance an existing farm pond, improving water quality, biodiversity and educational access. Work included the removal of accumulated silt and the re-grading of the pond banks to create a healthier aquatic habitat for wildlife. To protect the restored edges from livestock poaching, electric fencing was installed, along with two access gates. In addition pipework was laid to supply two new water troughs, providing an alternative drinking source for livestock. Hard standing was installed around the troughs to prevent further poaching of ground. Access to the pond was improved through the installation of steps and an upgraded footbridge to ensure safe entry for visitors. A designated area beside the pond was created for learning activities, including the installation of a canvas sail to provide shelter for school groups and guided visits. A borehole feasibility study was also carried out to explore longer-term water supply options. Together, these improvements have protected an important on-farm habitat while creating valuable opportunities for education and community engagement.
Educational School Visits
Sarah has completed CEVA’s training programme, enabling her to host educational visits for local schools. Through these sessions, children can learn about farming, food production and the natural environment, gaining a better understanding of how sustainable land management supports wildlife and local communities.