1 minute read
for the Diversifyingfuture
Aswell as having a home farm that comprises arable and grassland, the Estate also includes let farms, extensive woodlands, and a diverse range of property.
Developing the Estate’s resources for the long-term, whilst retaining its unique and traditional character and working in partnership with the local community, is the central focus for all activities on this busy, rural Estate as it continues along its journey towards a more regenerative style of farming.
Advertisement
The Estate: at a glance
Merevale Hall has been under the ownership of the Dugdale family since 1767. The Grade II listed building was rebuilt circa 1840 in the Elizabethan style of architect Edward Blore. Grade I listed Blyth Hall has been in the Dugdale family since 1624.
Dramatically situated at the end of a narrow peninsular of hill above Atherstone, Merevale Hall is now enjoyed by Sir William Matthew Stratford Dugdale and his family. The gardens are a mixture of formal, informal, and kitchen, and the surrounding parkland includes woodland and lakes.
Approximately 30 percent of the Merevale & Blyth Estate is arable land, farmed in-hand by contract arrangement. 28 percent is wooded, while the remainder is let for either agricultural, amenity or commercial purposes. This includes residential and business premises, all of which are let and managed through the Estate Office. Around 40 years ago, the Estate was home to four separate dairy farms, before the decision was made to combine them and operate as one arable contract, farming wheat, barley, rape, and linseed, as well as grain maize – a sought-after cattle food maize that is typically imported into the UK.
The Estate employs around 20 staff both in and outside of the office, and each year it takes on a student land agent from Harper Adams University on a sandwich placement to assist the Estate Manager and help to build up their practical experience.
Overall, the Merevale & Blyth Estate team is responsible for the day-to-day property management of over 500 residential, commercial, agricultural, and other lets, the management of an in-hand commercial shoot, as well as the upkeep of two listed properties and their parks.
