Ellenhall Park Farm: Tradition Meets Innovation in Rural Serenity

Elizabeth and Christopher Edwards tied the knot in July 1987 and settled into their farmhouse in 1990. Chris represents the third generation of the Edwards family to farm at Ellenhall, originally part of the Lichfield Estate—owned by Patrick Lichfield, the Queen’s cousin and a renowned photographer.

The family purchased the farm in 1985, focusing on dairy, beef, and arable farming. They supplied milk to Muller for yogurt, oats to Mornflake for porridge, wheat to Hovis, and high-quality beef to Dunbia Meats. The farm has received a local conservation award and participated in the Countryside Stewardship Scheme.

Recently, the farm has shifted towards smaller-scale, sustainable beef production with plans to sell directly to consumers. Diversification efforts now include a livery yard for 30 horses, hay and straw supply, and property rentals from three barn conversions. Notably, they’ve transformed a grain store into a Barn Store self-storage facility, complementing their diverse activities.

Charlotte and Alexander, born in the 1990s, are set to continue the family legacy. Charlotte works in agriculture, balancing relief milking and calf rearing with caring for her two horses and beloved pony, Conker. Alexander, soon to graduate from Lancaster University with a focus on Environmental Sustainability, is eager to join the family business.

Elizabeth brings 40 years of dedicated service as a medical secretary in the NHS at the Royal Stoke University Hospital, supporting Chris throughout their marriage despite her non-agricultural upbringing in the pottery industry.

The farm’s operations are efficiently managed by a strong team: Richard Oldfield as Accounts Manager, Aimee Alexander as Secretary, and Debbie Fife as Stable Manager.

Situated in a tranquil rural area, Ellenhall Park Farm is easily accessed from the A519, just seven miles west of Stafford, two miles south of Eccleshall, and eight miles north of Newport, with quick routes to M6 motorway Junctions 14 and 15, near Newcastle Under Lyme.