about us

Maydencroft Manor Native Breeds Farm is a family business based on a working farm. It is owned by the Williams' family partnership of two generations, and supported by Farm Manager, Chris Oakley. We are passionate about the heritage native breeds reared here and our sustainable, low input, high welfare farming methods. We feel very fortunate to be part of the story of a farm with such a fascinating history, and a great sense of responsibility for the future of the countryside and the rural community around us.

Our rural community

Lamb feeding

Situated on the edge of the small village of Gosmore, we have been at the heart of Hertfordshire rural life for many years, employing people from the local area and working in partnership with other local businesses. We take our involvement in local rural matters seriously and are delighted to be able to give back through apprenticeships, supporting local charities and hosting visits and events.


History of the Manor

Manor 1Maydencroft Manor has a remarkable history with records dating back to 1269. It is a former royal open hall house owned by the English royal family from Medieval until Tudor times, a number of whom visited and stayed, including Queen Isabella and later King Henry VIII. Henry VIII used it for hunting and hawking and was rescued from drowning in a ditch when at Maydencroft.


Bunyan’s barn on our farm is a sixteenth century barn of special architectural and historic interest. It is associated with John Bunyan, who is reputed to have preached here to clandestine gatherings of Baptists. These days the barn hosts our own events to support local charities.

Barn

Bunyan s barn 1

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