Farm Stay in England | Lake District Horse Farm

Farm Stay with Horses in the Lake District (England)

England

This family-run farm sits on the edge of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Cartmel Valley. The historic farm dates back to the mid-1600s and has been renovated and extended over the years. The family is now working towards further improvements and would appreciate some extra help with the day-to-day running of the property.

Volunteer Now

The farm is home to a Friesian horse sanctuary and farmhouse holiday accommodation. Three family members live and work on the farm and aim to create a relaxed and welcoming environment for helpers. The setting is peaceful, although life on a working farm can also be busy and unpredictable.

The property is just outside the village of Cartmel, known for its racecourse, restaurants and famous Sticky Toffee Pudding. The village is around a 20-minute walk away and has a grocery shop and several traditional pubs.

Tasks & Roles

Helpers can assist with a range of practical jobs, including mucking out, poo picking, building and general labouring, gardening, landscaping, farm maintenance and cleaning. Applicants can indicate which types of work interest them most.

Previous experience is useful but not essential. The family is mainly looking for people who are reliable, enthusiastic, able to follow instructions and comfortable working independently. As many tasks take place outdoors, helpers should be prepared to work in changing weather and be happy getting muddy.

Working hours are flexible and are usually around five hours a day, five days a week, with two days off. Days off are agreed in advance and may vary according to what is happening on the farm.

There is also an opportunity to earn a small amount of additional money by cleaning the holiday accommodation. This can either be carried out as paid work outside the usual volunteering hours or, if cleaning has been selected as a volunteering task, included within those hours.

Living & Getting There

Helpers stay in a three-bedroom static caravan with a comfortable living and dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, shower room and toilet. Bed linen is provided, and there is access to a washing machine and tumble dryer.

The farm is approximately 20 minutes by car from Kendal and around ten minutes from Grange-over-Sands, where the nearest railway station is located. The family can collect helpers from Grange-over-Sands station between 10am and 6pm. It is also possible to walk from the station to the farm, with the scenic route taking about an hour and crossing Hampsfield Fell.

Manchester Airport is the closest major airport. Public transport connections are available from the airport to the surrounding area.

The Lake District weather can change quickly, so waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear and gloves are essential for outdoor work. The family speaks English.

What else

The farm is well placed for exploring the Lake District and its many walking routes, villages and natural attractions. Although the bus service through Cartmel is limited, the family can provide lifts to nearby transport connections when possible.

The farm’s animals include horses, pet sheep and dogs, while a neighbour also grazes cattle and sheep on the land.

The family has welcomed helpers through another volunteering platform since 2017 and says it has received positive feedback from its previous volunteers. They also run a YouTube channel, Black Horses – The Friesian Experience, featuring life on the farm. Helpers who would prefer not to appear in the background of filming can let the family know in advance.

The farm is unable to assist with visa applications.

More HippoHelp Opportunities

Blog Posts

Destination Guides

HelpStay Work Exchange Categories

Reads for a Fulfilling Journey