By Lou Renwick & Keith Newman
This article has been contributed by the authors and reflects their views and experiences. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of Historic Buildings & Places. Credit for the content should be attributed to the authors.
Nestled just outside Rothbury, Northumberland, on the south-eastern side of the renowned Cragside Estate, Cragend Farm is where history, heritage, and sustainability converge. Lou Renwick, along with her family, has transformed this once-derelict farm into a thriving hub of agricultural innovation, historical preservation, and rural charm since purchasing it in 2011.
Cragend Farm is steeped in history, having been an integral part of Lord Armstrong’s pioneering Cragside Estate. Armstrong’s innovations in sustainable energy and industrial efficiency are etched into the fabric of the farm, with remnants of his visionary engineering still visible today. This continues today with a Carbon Literacy accreditation and a Green Tourism award.
During restoration, the Renwick family uncovered two rare Gilbert Gilkes of Kendal turbines, an Armstrong hoist, a weighbridge, and a one-of-a-kind hydro-powered silo used to create silage for cattle. These fascinating artefacts reflect Armstrong’s forward-thinking approach and have been meticulously preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century ingenuity.
“Lord Armstrong was ahead of his time, blending technology with sustainability,” says Lou Renwick. “We are proud to continue his legacy while integrating modern farming techniques that honour the past.”
Cragend Farm offers Heritage Tours where visitors can explore the farms ancient past dating back to the Iron Age, with a Celtic Camp on site, and early buildings from The Border Reiver Wars. The tours bring Northumberland’s heritage to life, making the farm a must-visit destination for history lovers and engineering enthusiasts. The Grade II* listing means that the building is of National Importance and arguably ‘one of the finest purpose-built agricultural buildings in the world’.
Cragend Farm is more than a historic site—it’s a working farm dedicated to preserving some of the world’s rarest livestock breeds. Home to critically endangered Bagot goats and the rare Whitebred Shorthorn cattle, the farm plays an essential role in conserving genetic diversity and traditional and Regen farming practices.
Not content with running a working farm and conducting historical tours, Cragend Farm offers an idyllic countryside escape for visitors seeking the tranquillity of rural life. The lovingly restored holiday cottage, once home to Armstrong’s farmworkers, combines rustic charm with modern comforts. Retaining original features, the cottage provides a unique connection to the past while offering all the amenities of a modern retreat.
For shorter stays, the farm boasts two farmhouse-style bed and breakfast rooms, perfect for a cosy weekend getaway. Guests can wake up to stunning views of the rolling Northumberland hills, enjoy farm-fresh breakfasts, and explore the surrounding countryside.
Visitors are encouraged to fully immerse themselves in life at Cragend. Whether it’s feeding the rare breeds, exploring nature trails, or taking part in one of the heritage tours, the farm offers a hands-on experience that connects guests to the land and its history.
In keeping with Lord Armstrong’s ethos, sustainability is at the heart of Cragend Farm’s operations. Hundreds of trees have been planted as part of the Great Northumberland Forest initiative, with future plans include incorporating solar energy storage, ensuring the farm remains a model for modern sustainable farming.
The incredible journey of Cragend Farm, from dereliction to a thriving centre of history, agriculture, and tourism, is chronicled in Lou Renwick’s new book, Transformation: Lord Armstrong’s Cragend Farm. The book offers a fascinating insight into the farm’s revival.
“We may be Cragside’s little neighbour, but we have a big story to tell,” added Lou. “Cragend Farm is not just a destination—it’s an experience of revival, resilience, and rural charm, a perfect escape for those seeking a touch of country life or a look back into Northumberland’s ancient and industrial past.”
Whether you’re a history enthusiast eager to explore heritage, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the countryside, Cragend Farm has something for everyone.
Tours start in May 2025 with booking in advance essential.
Visit www.cragendfarm.co.uk or follow Cragend Farm on Instagram and Facebook @CragendFarm to plan your stay and discover more about this remarkable destination.
Credit Lou Renwick & Keith Newman.
