The bridleway in Borrowdale is tarmac and provides a gentle walk with freedom from heavy traffic. Cars are usually parked outside the gate to the valley.
The Wilson family have always been particularly pleased that people visiting have found the benefit of a retreat to nature for peace and spiritual refreshment. Much of the higher land in the valley has been designated access land by the government although it is private land and not common.
The Wilson family would like to explain that the Right to Roam does not apply in the same way to dogs as human beings. Unfortunately sheep are extremely sensitive animals and their whole pattern of daily behaviour is based on predator awareness. They are as ill at ease near a dog as we would be near a lion and will move out of the way. They need them to graze peacefully, as widely as possible so as not to under or over graze areas of ground.
They ask visitors to remember that the land is the home of the sheep and it is their responsibility to ensure the animals are safe and content. Dogs can travel huge distances is the space of a few seconds, and it is natural for them to become excited by fleeing animals, but although chasing a sheep may seem like play to the dog, it is putting the sheep in terror of its life. It is for this reason dog owners are asked on most farm and common land to keep their pets on a lead.
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The land in Borrowdale is also used for suckler cattle in the summer. These are cows with calves and unlike milk cows have a protective mothering instinct. Dogs are seen by cattle as predators and they can be upset, particularly by small dogs.
This is just natural behaviour of animals and should an incident occur it would be wise to leave the pet to run away whilst the owner retreats to safety.
If you would like to have more information about this farm please call or email us:
Tel: 015396 24661
Email:carlingill@kencomp.net