A new historic chapter begins this month for Beatrix Potter’s Lake District farm.
Amy Dixon and Daniel Fletcher are taking on the tenancy for the author’s Hill Top Farm.
Amy is the first female tenant farmer since Potter bought the property in 1905.
The farm, in Near Sawrey, is now owned by the National Trust.
It was Potter’s first Lakeland farm and the start of her lifelong dedication to farming, conservation and Herdwicks. She wrote 13 of her much-loved tales at Hill Top.
Amy and Daniel are taking over from Amy’s dad Garry.
Amy said: “I’m pleased and proud to be taking on the farm from family.
“Dan and I want to build on what has already been achieved as we continue to manage and sustain a working farm next door to a worldwide famous tourist attraction.
“We can remain living in the area where we have both been brought up and continue to be a part of the local community we know.
“We’re also thankful for the support from the National Trust as new tenants, they are realistic about the challenges facing farmers, they actively support and want to help.”
Amy and Dan have taken on Garry’s 28 pure Herdwicks, bringing their total flock to 150.
A legacy helped the trust to buy the sheep from Garry at a livery day, where their condition and value were agreed.
Each Herdwick bears a red “H” smit, marking them as direct descendants of the Potter – who became Mrs Heelis – flock.
The 115-hectare farm, including land at nearby Latterbarrow, will support the small flock and a suckler herd.
Amy said: “We want to build on our Herdwick flock and gain recognition for the animals we breed.
“We also want to promote and share our Herdwicks with the wider public through diversification opportunities at the farm, currently via our farm tours that run throughout the summer season.”
Hill Top’s land management already reflects environmental stewardship in action, with low-input farming practices, carefully maintained drystone walls, and restored hay meadows that protect wildlife and soil health. Dan and Amy plan to create new wood pasture and explore joining the Countryside Stewardship Higher Tier scheme.
The trust’s Lakes Future Farming Partnerships manager Andrea Meanwell said Potter’s first farm was not just a place of inspiration for her stories, but led her to develop her passion for farming and Herdwicks, and her commitment to preserving the Lake District landscape.
Andrea said: “She was not local to the Lake District but after moving here she understood local communities and the importance of farming, in particular the small hill farms with hefted flocks of Herdwick sheep. Dan and Amy will be keeping her legacy alive with the creation of a new landlord’s flock at Hill Top.
