Nestled on the picturesque shores of The Mere in Ellesmere, Shropshire, the Oteley Estate is more than just a farm—it’s a place steeped in over 500 years of family history, rich in tradition, and dedicated to sustainable, eco-friendly farming practices. From its early days as a lavish country estate to its current role as a working farm with a deep respect for the land, Oteley is a hidden gem where history, nature, and innovative farming come together.

A Garden Steeped in History

The estate’s 10-acre Oteley Garden is a must-see for visitors. Entering through the rolling parkland and original Stable Yard, you’ll find a beautifully maintained garden filled with vibrant trees, shrubs, and expansive lawns. The estate’s historic walled garden, still dedicated to growing fresh fruit and vegetables, has preserved many features from its past, including a boathouse, tower, and the charming Swiss Cottage. Notably, the garden has been open to the public for nearly a century, raising money for nursing charities through the National Garden Scheme since 1927.

Throughout the year, the Oteley Garden continues to host events where visitors can explore its beauty, learn about the estate’s history, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Ethical and Sustainable Farming: Our Philosophy

Oteley Estate’s 2,000 acres of lush parkland, meadows, and meres are home to two magnificent herds of native British cattle—the Shorthorn and Highland. Our commitment to sustainable farming means we allow our cattle to graze freely in the beautiful, green pastures that Shropshire is known for. Both the Shorthorn, known for its high-quality beef, and the distinctive, shaggy Highland cattle, with their gentle temperament and iconic long horns, are raised on a purely grass-fed diet.

At Oteley, we believe that happy, healthy animals produce the best meat. Our Highlands roam the pastures year-round, grazing on natural grasses, which results in tender, flavoursome beef. By practicing extensive farming, we not only ensure the wellbeing of our animals but also protect the natural ecosystems and wildlife habitats that thrive on the estate.

We take pride in the fact that our cattle are born and raised on the estate, minimising food miles and supporting local communities. The beef produced on Oteley Estate is sold directly to customers through our Pop-Up Farm Shop, local independent shops and served in local restaurants. Our commitment to grass-fed, free-range animals ensures a lower-stress, healthier lifestyle for the livestock, and in turn, produces superior quality meat.

Expanding the Flock: Sheep and Pigs

More recently, we’ve introduced a small flock of sheep to our farm, which also graze freely on our lush pastures. Like our cattle, the sheep are raised on a 100% natural, grass-fed diet, resulting in slow-grown, tender lamb that our customers love. We’ve also added pigs to our mix of livestock, embracing the same commitment to free-range farming and quality, locally reared pork.

Our dedication to sustainable and ethical farming is what sets Oteley Estate apart, relying on natural foraging, we maintain a balanced, eco-friendly approach that benefits both the animals and the land.

Visit Our Farm Shop & Cafe

To get a taste of life at Oteley, we invite you to visit our Farm Shop & Café, open every Thursday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Here, you can explore our farming philosophy first-hand, enjoy locally produced food, and purchase our grass-fed beef, lamb, and pork directly from the farm. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the benefits of sustainable farming and bring home delicious, high-quality meats that are locally sourced and carefully reared.

Award-Winning Produce

We are proud to have been awarded a Highly Commended 2024 Award from the Countryside Alliance for our food produce and Farm Shop. Our commitment to excellence and sustainability has been recognized across Shropshire, and you can find Oteley Estate’s meat in local independent shops and restaurants in and around Ellesmere.

Explore Oteley Estate: A Place to Connect with Nature

Beyond our farm operations, Oteley Estate is a haven for nature lovers. With breathtaking views across the meres and mosses, ancient trees, and rich wildlife, visitors can explore the natural beauty of the estate while learning about the role responsible farming plays in protecting these environments. Whether you’re taking a stroll through the historic garden, walking the meadows, or enjoying a farm-to-table meal, Oteley offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the countryside and understand the importance of sustainable, ethical farming.

We look forward to welcoming you to Oteley Estate, where tradition, innovation, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience.

For more information visit The Oteley Estate website