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# Balcaskie

Balcaskie is a modern working estate at the heart of the East Neuk of Fife

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](http://www.balcaskie.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [News](http://www.balcaskie.com/news/)
- [Darcy Sheriff, Farm and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/darcy-sheriff-farm-and-estate-student/) - Balcaskie, I don’t quite know where to start, it’s hard to try and, A, remember the whole year, as it has gone faster than any year of my life and B, write it in a way that is interesting and not 1 million words- but I will try my best… As part of my four-year
- [Lucy Davies, Business and Marketing Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/lucy-davies-business-and-marketing-student/) - I can't believe my time at Balcaskie is over. Before arriving, I thought living so far away from home was going to be much harder, but it turns out Scotland is a lot more similar to Wales than I realised. Having such a welcoming team has certainly helped too as well as the midday office
- [Will Priest, Farm and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/will-priest-farm-and-estate-student/) - Part of my studies at Harper Adams University I am required to do a 12-month placement, in a bit of a last-minute decision I decided to come up for the Balcaskie placement tour. Shortly after I was offered the job, it wasn’t a tough decision to accept the offer. Looking back now, I’m very glad
- [Christy Orr, Business Management Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/christy-orr-business-management-student/) - As part of my Business Management degree at Edinburgh Napier University, I’ve spent the last five months on placement here at Balcaskie, although in many ways, it didn’t feel like arriving somewhere completely new. Having worked at the Bowhouse Market Weekends for the past three and a half years I already knew the pace, the
- [New Divisions](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-divisions/) - Having received notification of a successful AECS (Agri-Environment Climate Scheme) grant funding submitted in July last year – we are underway with 20km of new and replacement fencing in preparation for hedge planting and hedge laying in winter. This will add to our established hedging and bring divisions back to large fields created in
- [Emma Hamilton, Events Co-Ordinator and Admin Assistant](http://www.balcaskie.com/emma-hamilton-events-co-ordinator-and-admin-assistant/) - This month marks a year since I joined the team at Balcaskie, taking on the role of Events Coordinator and Admin Assistant here on the Estate. Having grown up surrounded by food and farming by entire life, with both sides of my family being farming families, a career with fields at foot was always on
- [Celebrating our Community: AIA Community Development Worker, Julia Priestley](http://www.balcaskie.com/celebrating-our-community-aia-community-development-worker-julia-priestley/) - If you had told me back in 2003, when I moved to the UK from Australia, that I’d eventually be spending my Friday mornings singing nursery rhymes in a restored historic Scottish church hall or chasing 1000 yellow plastic ducks down a burn, I might not have believed you. But ten years after moving to
- [Incubation](http://www.balcaskie.com/incubation/) - Calving and Lambing are both in full swing this month and what a difference a few weeks can make. Going from endless rain and wind to bright sunshine and longer days – both calves and lambs are benefitting form rapid turnout onto pasture with only minimum time spent indoors - Long may it continue. Pedigree
- [East Neuk Studio - Tim Goodwin](http://www.balcaskie.com/east-neuk-studio-tim-goodwin/) - I moved to Scotland with my partner about 8 years ago. Together we ran a workplace transformation consultancy, with me looking after the technical side of audio and video content creation. I also have over 20 years photography experience. Recently, I’ve felt the urge to do my own thing, concentrating on audio, video and photography.
- [Celebrating our Community: Diane Barrie](http://www.balcaskie.com/celebrating-our-community-diane-barrie/) - In July this year I will have worked at Kellie Garden for twenty years. Five of those years as a volunteer and fifteen as garden staff. My name is Diane Barrie, I am a professional gardener, I live, work and sometimes play in the East Neuk of Fife. Home is two miles from Kellie Castle,
- [Maintenance Months](http://www.balcaskie.com/maintenance-months/) - Over the past few months we have been lucky to have Angus Boundaries once again to demonstrate their expertise in hedge laying. This year we re also trialling a different “style”, one which may look a little untidy in comparison to the artwork in previous year. However, with 180 km of hedges on the estate,
- [Take Over](http://www.balcaskie.com/take-over/) - At the end of November we had our 4 year Tb Testing and annual vaccination session for breeding cows and bulls. We are grateful to be in Scotland with it’s Tb free status and only needing to test every 4 years. The process requires a small area of the neck of each animal to be
- [Nearing Completion](http://www.balcaskie.com/nearing-completion/) - This month we are hosting the third Chefs Grass to Grill tour, inviting new and existing customers and their staff to join us on a tour and learn about organic farming and how their meat is reared. This is a great opportunity to help provide factual information for the hospitality sector and enable them to
- [Weather Extremes](http://www.balcaskie.com/weather-extremes/) - With October rain falling and wind howling from Storm Amy, today feels like a good day to make some comparisons with last year. Weather is always more interesting when it is extreme and our station records rainfall, wind and humidity. Below are two charts which show the rainfall difference year on year with October 2024
- [Patrick Riley, Forestry and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/patrick-riley-forestry-and-estate-student/) - As I finish my time at Balcaskie I’ve taken some time to write a little about my experience as a Forestry and Estate Student, what work I did, the estate and living in the East Neuk. When I first arrived for my interview, I was struck by the beauty of the area, while the interview
- [Down In The History Books](http://www.balcaskie.com/down-in-the-history-books/) - Harvest 2025 must go down in the history books as one of the easiest and driest ever. Starting with Spring Barley in early August and completing the beans in the 1st week of September, it might not have been a record yield as crops stressed during the growing season were then battered by Storm Floris
- [Eggmobile](http://www.balcaskie.com/eggmobile/) - With harvest just around the corner, preparations for store hygiene and machine maintenance become a priority to make sure the buildings are free from insects which can infect grains. It also means the Estate Meeting is just around the corner. A chance to review the past year, make plans for the coming and take a
- [Emma Fabi, Business Marketing and Administration Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/emma-fabi-business-marketing-and-administration-student/) - As my time at Balcaskie comes to an end, I can certainly say that within the past year, no two days have been the same. I have enjoyed the variety my role has to offer, allowing me a taste of each enterprise on the estate. The team have been fantastic to work with, all very
- [Sustainable Farming](http://www.balcaskie.com/sustainable-farming/) - Earlier last month we held our Community Consultation event at Bowhouse over the course of a week. The purpose was to explain the journey the estate has been on over the past 20 years and looking forward to the next 20 years with increased activity. Meeting a good number of people who came along to
- [Imogen Flack, Farm and Estate Student 2024-25](http://www.balcaskie.com/imogen-flack-farm-and-estate-student-2024-25/) - It’s been quite a year at Balcaskie… For any of the farm team, it’s pretty apparent that I’m not originally from a farming background, and that greener than the herbal leys grown here is an understatement. However, despite this I have really enjoyed my time at Balcaskie. Having had mostly experience on dairy farms before,
- [Playing With Water](http://www.balcaskie.com/playing-with-water/) - Since we will not be making silage this year as we had enough left from last year and will be making hay weather permitting instead, we have used the dry season to begin some other projects which have been on the list for a few years. A new drive entrance, replacing the current North drive
- [A Season of Growth and Change at Balcaskie Estate](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-season-of-growth-and-change-at-balcaskie-estate/) - Jérémy Lesiourd, Environmental and Wildlife Development Officer It’s been a busy few months at Balcaskie Estate, full of activity on both land and water. We’ve been hard at work on a range of projects that continue to shape the landscape and support biodiversity. At the core of my role is a simple but vital aim:
- [Field to Fork Fashion](http://www.balcaskie.com/5434-2/) - The cattle hides we sent off last year for tanning have now returned. British Pasture Leather was set up by Alice Robinson and Sarah Grady to take the best hides from regenerative farms suppling field to fork fashion with leather, tanned using natural processes with full traceability back to each animal. Our first hides were
- [Peace](http://www.balcaskie.com/peace/) - Calving and Lambing 2025 is such a contrast to that of 2024 – wall to wall sunshine has meant the team can get calves and lambs on the ground without battling the elements. It’s a well-oiled machine now with returning student Maggie Brown making sure night checks are done with a beady eye and the
- [A Rewarding Chapter, Rosie Jack](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-rewarding-chapter-rosie-jack/) - Here we are, the end of a rewarding chapter for me. Joining Balcaskie green, naïve and keen back in September 2018 I had no idea what my life would look like today in 2025. Nearly 7 years on I can truly say that being part of the Balcaskie movement and team has grown me as
- [Spring Arrivals and Fond Farewells](http://www.balcaskie.com/spring-arrivals-and-fond-farewells/) - Lambing and calving become the focus this month with our first calves born to heifers in late February and the main herd beginning in early March. With round the clock care required, we enlist extra help over this period. We are delighted to have Joe for a few weeks with his quiet capable ability and
- [Up Horn - Down Corn](http://www.balcaskie.com/up-horn-down-corn/) - Bowhouse held its first February Market since we normally open the year in March, but with demand from both customers and traders, we have extended the season with a bustling February, offering both the normal high quality food and drink stalls, workshops, demos and of course the Butchery hosting the BBQ. Alterations to both Baern
- [Winter Routine](http://www.balcaskie.com/winter-routine/) - By January our winter routine is well underway, with over 900 cattle still outside and a marked contrast from last year, when the constant rain meant we had used over ½ our winter forage in the first two months. This year, we are delighted that the grass has remained growing, ground dry and sufficient forage
- [Happy Christmas](http://www.balcaskie.com/happy-christmas/) - Stocks Cooks Shop have now opened in the Courtyard at Bowhouse – if you are short of present ideas for Christmas – it’s got some great things in there and is well worth a look. In January, we will begin the next phase of “Knock Through” when we open up the ground floor of the
- [Pitch Up! 2024](http://www.balcaskie.com/pitch-up-2024/) - Attending the Scottish Organic Conference at Ingliston, one of the speakers, Christina Dimetto from UK Organic gave a brilliant analysis of the work which the organic market research team have been gathering. The report below is both surprising and encouraging, as we learned that increased interest in human health, environment animal welfare are the main
- [New Pastures, Kat Gilmour-White](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-pastures-kat-gilmour-white/) - The last four years have been an incredible journey that have introduced me to so many new faces, seeding and growing my passion for farming, food, drink and the agritourism sector. My last couple days in office have given me time to reflect on my experiences in such an exciting, varied and evolving role. I
- [Hope vs Reality](http://www.balcaskie.com/hope-vs-reality/) - Harvest of our barley, oats and wheat have been completed with some very settled weather in September. Unfortunately, once harvested, we are no longer in a “hope” phase where we hope that the yields will be better than expected, but instead move to “reality”, when we know they are less than hoped. After a late
- [Reece Howells, Farm and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/reece-howells-farm-and-estate-student/) - My first time crossing the border into Scotland was for my Balcaskie interview, being 6 hours from home, the prospect initially daunted me, but after meeting the team and successfully being offered the job, this was more than enough to secure my decision. Throughout the year I completed a wide range of tasks, weekly jobs
- [Harvest Month](http://www.balcaskie.com/harvest-month/) - September is traditionally the Harvest month, although with winter sown crops already safely gathered, our own spring sown crops are only just ready now. So there will be the inevitable inter-shower dashes for the combine and baler. Grass to Grill for this month is a sell-out, with a full trailer load of guests on a
- [Izzy Scott, Marketing and Administration Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/izzy-scott-marketing-and-administration-student/) - I joined the Balcaskie team in summer 2023 as a marketing and admin student, my role here at Balcaskie has allowed me to do a lot more than my job tile would suggest. I have worked in almost every department around the estate from stalking deer to marketing meetings in Edinburgh, the role has provided
- [Housekeeping](http://www.balcaskie.com/housekeeping/) - The “Show season” is now over for us, with the final run at the Great Yorkshire, where despite torrential rain, Cameron and Reece brought home some excellent accolades. With show animals now out in the fields doing what comes naturally, we hope to be breeding future winners. This month we have our annual “Estate meeting”
- [Iestyn Richards, Farm and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/iestyn-richards-farm-and-estate-student/) - After exploring possible placement opportunities and coming across the estate advertising a position for two students, I felt strongly that this position would allow me to express my strengths in a new environment at a large scale, while also learning regenerative farming techniques alongside being organic. Throughout the year my role varied significantly, mainly working
- [Teamwork](http://www.balcaskie.com/team-work/) - After a burst of activity in June, the winters forage crops have been largely secured. Silage has been cut and clamped with the help of Colin Reid and his family contracting operation including father and wife. Even with a relatively large team at Balcaskie, we sometimes need to work with others either to share machinery
- [Showtime](http://www.balcaskie.com/showtime/) - May is the start of “Showtime” for the livestock team, a chance to show off the best of the farms stock infront of other farmers and expert judges. From the first outing at the Fife Show, Ewan came back with a good stash of rosettes and a cup for sheep, then off to the
- [Hannah Munro, Forestry and Estate Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/hannah-munro-forestry-and-estate-student/) - I have been a Balcaskie for a year and a half and one of the first jobs I helped complete on the estate was the chipping of Christmas trees at Bowhouse. The chip made was then used for bedding the lambing shed. I helped out at lambing on weekends and learnt a lot as it
- [Catch Up](http://www.balcaskie.com/catch-up/) - At the time of last months blog, there was little to indicate Spring was on its way, but the past few weeks have seen a flurry of activity across the country as farms play catch up. Our Spring crops have been planted (even if we have changed our plan and then changed that too) and
- [Jim McLure, Farm and Estate Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/jim-mclure-farm-and-estate-maintenance/) - "Ne'er cast a clout till Mays out," As they say. Or in other words don't discard your winter clothing until then. It can also mean until the Hawthorn tree has blossomed - also known as May. Well I know it's only April but the wet weather has been ridiculously bad and if we've to wait
- [Little Farmer Childcare](http://www.balcaskie.com/little-farmer-childcare/) - Hi, I am Jane Parsons from Little Farmer Childcare, based on Balcaskie at Easter Kellie. I began childminding in 2008 from home, turning the playroom and kitchen at Easter Kellie Farmhouse into my place of work - helping to look after friends children when mine were pre-school. From there the business grew and I took
- [Non-Science](http://www.balcaskie.com/non-science/) - Our building renovation projects are quietly progressing with the Comielaw unit being plaster-boarded at the moment. Since the space is to be used by a yarn processor – it would be mad not to have used sheep’s wool insulation in the build. Thermafleece, a UK based company in the Lake District, processed in Yorkshire
- [Kat Gilmour, Bowhouse Co-ordinator](http://www.balcaskie.com/kat-gilmour-bowhouse-co-ordinator/) - There is always lots to organise and plan for at Bowhouse; I’m looking forward to a busy year ahead (including getting married!) My main job role is working with the Bowhouse team to co-ordinate events including the market weekends at our food and drink hub. Alongside our bustling market weekends, we have also introduced a
- [Abercrombie Farm](http://www.balcaskie.com/abercrombie-farm/) - Abercrombie is a 325 acre tenanted farm on Balcaskie Estate. The farm is family run which means there are not many days off and wintertime is no exception, it is business as usual. In the winter months we winter cattle in the sheds, they require feeding twice every day and a fresh straw bed to
- [Meet Your Neighbour](http://www.balcaskie.com/meet-your-neighbour/) - With both calving and lambing now in full swing, there are plenty of new additions to look after. Maternity wings at Lochty and North Baldutho are now a hive of activity and we welcome two new helpers, Dean and Maggie. In order to provide 24 hour care, Maggie will be night lambing and calving, with
- [Reuben Ellicott, Forester](http://www.balcaskie.com/reuben-ellicott-forester/) - The start of the year was kicked off by clearing plenty of storm damage throughout the estate, this is just one example of some of the mature trees that have fallen in the last two months. This particular tree was a mature Sycamore which had a significant lean on it and was highly exposed so
- [A series of Events](http://www.balcaskie.com/4831-2/) - This month we are hosting a series of event at Bowhouse, staring with RHET (Royal Highland Education Trust) which brings school children out onto farms to learn about how their food is produced. The trust has done some amazing work connecting children with food and land use, even in a rural area where children are
- [Ben Silk, Property Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/ben-silk-property-manager/) - In case you hadn’t noticed, the weather has not been particularly brilliant recently. This brings many challenges to the Estate – and to my job. A lot of my time over the past couple of months has been spent inspecting and repairing damage to our properties. With high volumes of downpour, and significantly strong winds, many
- [Rain, Rain, Rain](http://www.balcaskie.com/rain-rain-rain/) - Last month we were preparing for the Christmas Bowhouse market which is always a busy one – but turned out to be a record breaker with over 7000 people attending and supporting the local food, drink and craft businesses who produce some truly fantastic stuff. On the one hand, a full market is a good
- [Kylie Clark, Senior Office Administrator](http://www.balcaskie.com/kylie-clark-senior-office-administrator-2/) - A few weeks ago, back in November, I was invited to speak at Lochaber’s Ideas Week – a week run by the Lochaber Chamber of Commerce where they bring together the businesses and stakeholders within their area to discuss different topics that affect them all and invite guest speakers within particular industries as case
- [Opportunities](http://www.balcaskie.com/4697-2/) - Pitch-up! 2023 applications closed at the end of November with huge diversity of business ideas being pitched to both Balcaskie and Kingsclere estates. Our next steps will be to interview the applicants and arrange a visit. We are very excited to see how this progresses and beyond 2023 – we are keen to partner with
- [Electric Fishing](http://www.balcaskie.com/4665-2/) - Pitch up! goes live – Our new partnership with Tim May at Kingsclere Estate in Hampshire has gone live, with the application window now open. The aim is to bring more enterprises to Balcaskie and Kingsclere, increasing the diversity and resilience of the existing businesses, at the same time increasing the number of people benefiting
- [Andy Scott, Tractorman](http://www.balcaskie.com/andy-scott-tractorman-2/) - I have not long finished harvesting this year, I began with ploughing back in February. This photo shows me ploughing a field of wheat stubble ready to plant 100 acres of organic Fava beans. This was the first year out with our new Kverneland plough which is an on-land/in-furrow plough. This is a more soil
- [Fife Campers](http://www.balcaskie.com/fife-campers/) - I have been converting camper vans for around 7 years now. I moved into my current workshop with Balcaskie in February 2021. Similar to many other small businesses I began converting vans at home in my driveway in evenings and weekends while working as a full time Joiner after doing an intensive VW Camper
- [Measures of Success](http://www.balcaskie.com/measures-of-success/) - Last months prediction of the Harvest moon looked a little unreliable towards the end of September, but on the last day, the wind blew, moon full and harvest was completed. 2023 will not be remembered as a vintage for crop yields, but we hope that quality will be confirmed shortly when samples sent off for
- [Sarah Koetsier Ceramics](http://www.balcaskie.com/sarah-koetsier-ceramics/) - I have been a ceramicist for about 7 years and have spent the last three years working from the pottery studio on Balcaskie Estate. It is what I would call my first proper studio having worked out of a room in my flat after graduating university and a rather cold garage after that. It has
- [Euan Simpson, Butchery Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/euan-simpson-butchery-manager/) - This year has been a very busy year in the butchery and hasn’t left much time to carry out as many courses and finalise other plans, but as we move out of the holiday season things will settle down a little. We will be running a few more butchery courses before the madness of Christmas sets
- [Blue Moon](http://www.balcaskie.com/blue-moon/) - Having just seen the Blue Moon, the next full moon will be the Harvest Moon. Traditionally, September was the harvest month and the full moon enabled later harvesting before headlights. It also brings stronger winds. So since we have yet to start harvest – fingers crossed the tradition keeps up. Spring barley will be harvested
- [Dodging Showers](http://www.balcaskie.com/dodging-showers/) - Thanking our lucky stars that we have no winter cereals which would be ripe by now and we would be, like many – dodging showers to harvest. Our spring planted cereals are looking ok and probably not ready until the end of August which gives time for the Jet Stream to move north. (That’s farming
- [Grass to Grill](http://www.balcaskie.com/grass-to-grill/) - June is show month – with local and national Agricultural shows making the best of a quieter time on the farm and the chance of sunshine. The Royal Highland Show is the pinnacle of livestock showing with Cameron and Kieran parading some of the Lincoln Red cattle in the ring. Delighted to say that the
- [Showing Season](http://www.balcaskie.com/showing-season/) - The first of the new season lambs have already left the farm for the butchery and Marks and Spencer. Using our autodrafter to select lambs when they reach the correct weight and gather masses of information about growth rates, the job of selecting from 4000 animals is made a little easier with technology. Each
- [Katie Keenan, Farm Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/katie-keenan-farm-student/) - Although I’m not originally from a farming family, I have found my passion in shepherding. I joined the Balcaskie team in June 2022 and have loved every moment. I have been lucky enough to have been given the opportunity to work on a range of farms all over Scotland but never an organic farm, so
- [Inspection Month](http://www.balcaskie.com/inspection-month/) - Fife seems to have become suddenly green again with a flush of grass, crops growing rapidly and warmer nights. After a pretty cool start to the growing season, many of our spring planted crops are only just emerging so lets hope we have some heat and showers to help them catch up, or it will
- [Hannah Munro, Rural Estates Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/hannah-munroe-rural-estates-student/) - I joined Balcaskie at the beginning of the year as a rural estate student and have so far been working throughout the whole estate. From being in the gardens of Balcaskie house, to maintaining and thinning woodlands, to helping in the butchery for market weekends and helping when I could with lambing this year, I
- [A Game of Logic](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-game-of-logic/) - April has begun with warm, longer days and dare I tempt fate – a settled forecast. After a pretty dismal March, the grass is growing, ewes with new-born lambs, cows and calves are all looking well, even if they had to put up with a daily shower or two. With the early lambing flock now
- [Kieran McIntyre, Farm Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/kieran-mcintyre-farm-student/) - As a student I joined Balcaskie last year and have been working with Cameron, our cattleman recently and have been assisting with calving this year. We had been viewing the cow pictured here on the cameras but could see she wasn’t settling down and that it was probably for the best to intervene and
- [Vikki Banks, Office Administrator](http://www.balcaskie.com/vikki-banks-office-administrator/) - The main project that I have been working on is an overhaul of the compliancy within the Butchery at Bowhouse. Since Euan has taken over and the plans for the butchery are to grow, I have been making sure that the systems we have in place reflect everything we do. As a butchery shop
- [Decision Time](http://www.balcaskie.com/decision-time/) - Sitting here, looking at the weather forecast and nervously hoping that it will change to suit us – March is a nerve wracking month. All of the decisions we make on the farm revolve around this month. Lambing has begun, but the decision was made back in October when the Tups went out. Calving is
- [Cameron Betts, Cattleman](http://www.balcaskie.com/cameron-betts-cattleman/) - Back in October we bought in some in-calf Lincoln Reds from down South. As these were older and more experienced cows we trust that they can deliver their own calves themselves with minimal intervention so we leave them to calf outside. We check them all throughout the day though just to make sure that
- [My Time at Balcaskie - Isla Howells](http://www.balcaskie.com/my-time-at-balcaskie-isla-howells/) - For the last 2 months I’ve come up from the Borders to work on the estate as part of my work experience for my university application, it helped hugely with my application to Harper Adams, RAU and Hartpury all of which the courses were land or property based, as my time on the estate helped
- [A Break In The Wet Winter](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-break-in-the-wet-winter/) - Finally we have a break in the wet winter and this has enabled us to get onto land to spread Farmyard Manure, begin ploughing for cereals and cultivate fallow land. Its not just animal excrement we have been able to get on with – the estates septic tanks have had their annual “vacuum tanker attention”
- [Rosie Jack, Bowhouse Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/rosie-jack-bowhouse-manager-2/) - Changes at Bowhouse In January and February things are very quiet at Bowhouse with many of the businesses taking a break before the busy Spring season commences so it’s the perfect time for us to make big changes on site. The whole corridor in Bowhouse has been freshened up with paint as well as
- [Carbon Farming - Toby Anstruther](http://www.balcaskie.com/carbon-farming-toby-anstruther/) - At the start of a new year there is an opportunity to look at the wider picture and consider the most important aims for the future. Farming businesses, particularly livestock farming operations, are long term ventures, so often the cycles are 10+ yearly, rather than annually. Of course this doesn’t mean that I don’t check
- [Short Days and Long Shadows](http://www.balcaskie.com/short-days-and-long-shadows/) - November was generous with one thing – rain. We recorded over 130mm during the month, with an average annual rainfall of 670mm. After the long dry Spring and Summer – we are now back on track. Given the conditions, our livestock being outwintered are doing surprisingly well. This is the first year we have outwintered
- [Continuing The Pace](http://www.balcaskie.com/continuing-the-pace/) - We never seem to get used to the clocks changing and the dark evenings meaning the day can only be extended so long at this time of year. Still with plenty to do, and less time to do it, the pace seems to continue. Our tups have been busy already, setting the scene for next
- [Autumn Is The Time](http://www.balcaskie.com/autumn-is-the-time/) - Harvest was completed on the 16th of September with the final fields of wheat, beans and rye being harvested in perfect conditions. With Scott taking the helm on the combine, he has proven his ability on the “big boys toys” and judging by the smile on his face – next harvest can't come soon
- [Liz Donald, Estate Caretaker](http://www.balcaskie.com/liz-donald-estate-caretaker/) - I’ve been working at Bowhouse since the end 2018 and am responsible for cleaning Bowhouse, Comielaw and the Estate Office. I live nearby in Pittenweem so the commute isn’t far. I work 4 days a week 6am – 12pm, I really enjoy the early starts because I feel like I’m not wasting the day and
- [Harvest 2022](http://www.balcaskie.com/harvest-2022/) - Harvest began with Spring wheat for Scotland the Bread, on 20th August, almost a month earlier than in 2021. The dry spring an heat during July has reduced the yield below our expectations. The plants, under stress have gone from growing leaf and tillerig (thickening) out, to reproductive phase so quickly that there are not
- [Ben Silk, Property Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/4182-2/) - Back in 2015, I left the bustling city of Brighton for the idyllic life in the East Neuk, along with my fiction editor wife, Vicki, plus our tabby cat, Spooky, and our crazy spaniel, Freddie. As soon as we got here, I began renting a workshop from Balcaskie Estate, on the newly renovated Comielaw steading. From here
- [Donald McLelland, Bowhouse Link Delivery Driver](http://www.balcaskie.com/donald-mclelland-bowhouse-link-delivery-driver/) - Before working at Balcaskie I served for 15 years in the military followed by 22 years as a postie in the local area. At the beginning of last year family issues and covid proved a real struggle for me, this is when I left the post office and started, what I call, my mental health
- [Projects and Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/projects-and-maintenance/) - 2022 is the first year that we have not begun harvest in July or early August. With no Winter cereals in the ground and all Spring sown this year, we have an extra month to fill before the season concludes. Lucky really, as we have exchanged harvesting and sowing with more projects mixed in with
- [Leigh Ryan, Accounts Receivable](http://www.balcaskie.com/leigh-ryan-accounts-receivable/) - I started with Balcaskie Estate in January 2017 taking care of the Farm and pub invoices and it is amazing to see how the Estate has grown and diversified over the years. After coming back from maternity leave I took on more of the sales ledger tasks for all of our Estates. On a weekly
- [Questions and Answers](http://www.balcaskie.com/questions-and-answers/) - We were very pleased to be able to again help with the excellent Royal Highland Education Trust school open day at Gilson Estate. Cameron and Chris took their turns on the beef and forestry stands, explaining the process of each to groups of primary school children from across Fife. Often we hear how little
- [Euan Simpson, Butchery at Bowhouse Assistant](http://www.balcaskie.com/euan-simpson-butchery-at-bowhouse-assistant/) - As a young child I lived on our farm, but like many small family farms in the 1980’s it ceased working before I had much experience of farming life. However, I made up for it spending summers when I was older on my aunt’s farm where she kept various rare breeds of cattle, sheep and
- [Scott Ramage, General Farm and Estate Worker](http://www.balcaskie.com/scott-ramage-general-farm-and-estate-worker/) - I’ve been in and out of farming all my life. At one point I spent 12 years on a large conventional estate as a digger driver but decided that I wanted to go back to something I was more comfortable with which is why I have moved around a bit. My brother Ewan came to
- [Well Done and Well Deserved](http://www.balcaskie.com/well-done-and-well-deserved/) - Having often heard the saying that “Fife looks its best at the Fife Show week”, we were delighted to not only be able to show livestock this year, but also bring home some rosettes! Well done to Ewan, Cameron, Scott and Murray for all of the hosing, hoovering, primping and preening. Well deserved. Andy also
- [Deborah Ryan, Office Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/deborah-ryan-office-manager/) - On Wednesday 1st June I will have been with Balcaskie for 13 years. In that time, I have seen many changes…. We have grown from 6 members of staff to 27, redundant farm buildings have been transformed into thriving commercial units, the Estate has increased in size both through purchasing Newark & Bowhouse Farm &
- [Poul Thomassen, Farm and Estate Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/poul-thomassen-farm-and-estate-maintenance/) - Unlike most people in agriculture, I wasn’t born and raised on the farm or in the countryside. Some of my Mums side of the family have/had farms but I didn’t get to spend a lot of time on them when I was growing up. I was born in Kirkcaldy and spent most of my young
- [From One Season To The Next](http://www.balcaskie.com/from-one-season-to-the-next/) - Calving and lambing are now drawing to an end with just the last few animals left to give birth. After such a lovely spring with very few wet days, both the cattle and sheep look great. It is with huge thanks to the team here who are charged with looking after over 4000 head of
- [Andy Scott, Tractorman](http://www.balcaskie.com/andy-scott-tractorman/) - I have spent my life on farms and my family history is the same, all being born and brought up on different farms. I am a time served agricultural engineer, serving my time between 1969 – 1974. Afterwards I did a brief stint driving diggers for a contractor but soon went back onto farms. Over
- [Eilidh Hunter, Lambing Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/eilidh-hunter-lambing-student/) - After a good year last year, I decided to come back for a second year of lambing at Balcaskie! The lambing season is my favourite time of the year as although it is a very busy and challenging time it can also be very rewarding. At Balcaskie lambing starts with texel cross ewes lambing indoors
- [Ewan Ramage, Shepherd](http://www.balcaskie.com/ewan-ramage-shepherd/) - I came to Balcaskie because I was looking for a new challenge. I had never worked on an organic farm before and this looked like a nice area with a good social aspect to it to. I am originally from Northumberland and wanted to move further North from there. Balcaskie have an up and coming
- [Rosie Jack, Bowhouse Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/rosie-jack-bowhouse-manager/) - I know everyone says this but no one day is the same for me at Bowhouse. As the site is ever changing, I find the way I explain ‘what is Bowhouse?’ changes most weeks so I thought I could use this blog to explain what Bowhouse is and what I get up to week on
- [Chris Thomson, Forestry Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/chris-thomson-forestry-manager/) - I have now spent two months at Balcaskie which have been thoroughly enjoyable. I think I have met most of the team though some only briefly! I will use this blog to give everyone a bit of my background and how I ended up here, what I have been doing so far and some of
- [New Life](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-life/) - March brings the arrival of many new lives onto the farm, with calving, lambing and farrowing to hopefully co-inside with some spring like sunshine and grass growth – fingers crossed. It is always a tense season as so much of the year is at stake and round the clock care required. We are delighted to
- [Gavin Jones, Gardener](http://www.balcaskie.com/gavin-jones-gardener/) - The last couple of weeks have seen the completion of some major tasks, one being the pruning of the apple and pear trees in the orchard. I have changed to winter pruning this year as staffing levels are no longer suitable for summer pruning. The difference between summer and winter pruning, to me, is that
- [Dave Nicol, Tractorman](http://www.balcaskie.com/dave-nicol-tractorman/) - After a great weekend down in Edinburgh at the rugby, it was back to work on Monday. Hope we do as well at the next game !! With the stockmen getting busy with the calving and the lambing starting at the end of February, in the morning, I have been feeding the cattle inside. All
- [Hello February](http://www.balcaskie.com/hello-february/) - Calving has begun on time with our heifers starting in early February so that we can give them extra attention – The first time calving heifers are more prone to difficulties during calving, so by concentrating on them early, we hope to give the calves the best possible start. With the extended, unusually mild and dare
- [Murray Parsons, Student](http://www.balcaskie.com/murray-parsons-student/) - Recently I have been working by myself doing early mornings as well as weekends starting about half 6 to half 7 before school each day just to help. I don’t mind though as I quite enjoy working with the cattle and sheep. Right now, I have been helping with cattle, pigs and feeding the ewes
- [Jane Ashworth, Office Administrator](http://www.balcaskie.com/jane-ashworth-office-administrator/) - January may be a quiet month for some but in the office it is very busy… To kick start the year we have restarted our water chart challenge in the office. We each record how many bottles of water we drink each day tallying up how many litres we have per week. It is a
- [Accelerating into 2022](http://www.balcaskie.com/accelerating-into-2022/) - Happy New Year and let’s hope that 2022 brings normality back to what has been dominating thoughts for the past two years and shaped changes to our lives. If nothing else, the changes we have seen are predominantly things which were changing already but have now been accelerated – so here’s to more of the
- [Field Security - Jim McLure, Farm and Estate Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/field-security-jim-mclure-farm-and-estate-maintenance/) - This photo was obviously taken a long time ago, and you would think I was destined for a life of work on the land. But no....I never got into agriculture until I was 25. Being brought up locally on the coast and most of my maternal family being involved in the past with the sea,
- [Winter and Onwards](http://www.balcaskie.com/winter-and-onwards/) - Last month we brought all of the breeding cows and calves in to wean the young calves now they are old enough and to enable the cows to have a rest before next years calves are born. The cows are Pregnancy Diagnosed – or PD scanned, to see which ones are in calf and check
- [And suddenly just like that, it’s December again - Sophie Cumber, Butchery at Bowhouse Manager](http://www.balcaskie.com/and-suddenly-just-like-that-its-december-again-sophie-cumber-butchery-at-bowhouse-manager/) - 2021 has been an interesting year for the Butchery at Bowhouse, it has been great seeing the monthly Bowhouse markets getting busier throughout the year as things have been getting ‘back to normal’. Whilst the wholesale side of the business has thankfully been much less interrupted than in 2020. We now supply several restaurants in
- [H'Owl About It - Jérémy Lesiourd, Environmental and Wildlife Development](http://www.balcaskie.com/howl-about-it-jeremy-lesiourd-environmental-and-wildlife-development/) - Autumn is definitely here and with it comes the same usual jobs; preparing for the next tree planting season. Sadly because of Ash Dieback Disease “Hymenoscyphus fraxineus” we have a lot of plantations to be replanted. The ash trees that are removed will be replaced with English Oak, Rowan and Scotch Pine amongst others. A
- [Shorter Days and Colder Nights](http://www.balcaskie.com/shorter-days-and-colder-nights/) - October and November bring shorter days and colder nights, signalling to the ewes that the time is right for breeding. Ewes come into season naturally at this time of year and the tups (male sheep) are fitted with harnesses to hold a crayon which is coloured to mark each ewe they serve. The colours are
- [Cameron Betts, Stockman](http://www.balcaskie.com/cameron-betts-stockman/) - A couple of weeks ago I attended the Scottish Small holders Association show in Forfar and took along three of our finishing Tamworth pigs which we put on show to the public allowing them to see a rare breed and open their eyes to the world of agriculture. Our pigs came second in a rare
- [Robert Wilson, Tractorman](http://www.balcaskie.com/robert-wilson-tractorman/) - Back in 2009 I left my job at North Lambieletham Farm due to changing farm circumstances and in June that year started my new job of tractor man with stock work and other general farm duties at Balcaskie Estate. 12 years later I now say goodbye and look towards my retirement. My first job for
- [Kat Gilmour, Bowhouse Link and Market Assistant](http://www.balcaskie.com/kat-gilmour-bowhouse-link-and-market-assistant/) - Bowhouse has become like a home from home for me over the past year. I have several roles within the business that have grown, adapted and have been given so many opportunities to expand my knowledge of the Food and Drink Sector in Scotland. A role I’ve been learning a lot from is with Bowhouse Link; an online shopping platform for our customers to
- [Learning and Growing](http://www.balcaskie.com/learning-and-growing/) - The annual pilgrimage to the Golden Triangle in Lincolnshire for the Lincoln Red Cattle breed has been widened somewhat with this year’s new breeding stock purchased from just south of Dundee to Ipswich in Suffolk. A tour of the country is a great way to meet some truly passionate breeders and have the chance to
- [Kylie Clark, Senior Office Administrator](http://www.balcaskie.com/kylie-clark-senior-office-administrator/) - Our next Bowhouse market is on in a couple of weeks, and we are in full planning mode. Now that we have some more freedom of movement, we are hoping to have our first interactive activity taking place with the return of our ever popular apple press where you can bring along your harvest from
- [GPS for Cows......](http://www.balcaskie.com/gps-for-cows/) - September is usually the main month for harvest, but with the spring drought, crops have been consistently 2 weeks ahead of their normal ripening date this season. The upside is that we have experienced a “Gentleman’s Harvest” with several weekends off, which feels strange for us all. As we complete our organic conversion this year,
- [The Boys have been Busy!](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-boys-have-been-busy/) - Harvest got underway this year on 24th July with Winter Barley, the earliest harvest since 2005. Partly spurred on by the dry March and April, then heat in July. Results were disappointing with low yield and poor quality, but again reminding us that resilience in what we produce is ever more important to compensate for
- [Food, Glorious Food.](http://www.balcaskie.com/3792-2/) - June and July bring an abundance of grass to the farm. With long days and sufficient moisture, the grass, herbs and flowers all race to set seed. Conserving some of this excess for the winter, we start with silage in early June, and what looked like a very small crop in late May transformed into
- [Surprise!](http://www.balcaskie.com/3758-2/) - April has been the driest, sunniest and coldest month for years, with 18 consecutive night frosts and some biting easterly wind. Keeping grass growth down and crops which have been waterlogged over winter, looking for moisture with limited roots to do so. Lambing has all but finished with a few surprise lambs from a group
- [A Lot of Bull](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-lot-of-bull/) - The start of June is when we set the stall out for next calving – spring 2022. Bulls are “checked over” by Ainslie from Eden vets to ensure that they are in tip-top form and will manage the summer season with their companions. Two of our bulls have failed the test with poor sperm mobility
- [Busy, Busy.....](http://www.balcaskie.com/busy-busy/) - March and April are two of the busiest months on the farm, with calving, lambing, ploughing, cereal planting, dung spreading, grass harrowing, rolling and still the day jobs to be completed. Not surprisingly, we have all been glad of the dry weather but a little disappointed with the temperature. Grass grew well at the start
- [Four Seasons in One Month](http://www.balcaskie.com/four-seasons-in-one-month/) - February delivered every season in one month – from some truly miserable wet to crisp snow and the coldest night time temperatures for 10 years, ending the month with warm sunshine and blue skies. Managing our livestock outside during this time was “challenging”. From heavily pregnant ewes coming into the shed for lambing – they
- [Mingle in the Woods!](http://www.balcaskie.com/mingle-in-the-woods/) - Well Spring has arrived with sun in the sky, a fresh breeze, and a wonderful display as always of our snowdrops, snowflakes and hellebores which are still looking very nice. And waiting in the wings, the daffodils, just waiting to take part and mingle in the woods. It is a stunning sight and makes you
- [Hungry Times](http://www.balcaskie.com/hungry-times/) - This time of the year proves how important wild cover and wildlife habitats are for birds. Our chosen bird cover seed mix composed of triticale, wheat, barley and oats combined with other seeds are capable of standing out in the landscape otherwise covered in thick snow. Wild bird cover areas give a vast selection of
- [Pens, Preparation & Planning](http://www.balcaskie.com/pens-preparation-planning/) - The first of the cows have returned to the cattle sheds in preparation for calving this month – and with the “dreich” February so far – they are glad to be in. We are also preparing the lambing shed in anticipation of the first lambs being born at the end of this month, so our
- [Snowflakes & Snowdrops](http://www.balcaskie.com/snowflakes-snowdrops/) - Hello again, and we have left 2020 behind. I am working away on tidying and finishing off the Winter pruning in the orchard on the apples and pears. This is the best time to look at the bare structure looking at any crossing, damaged or diseased growth. The trees are in good health and not
- [A Perfect Balance](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-perfect-balance/) - A Happy New Year and lets hope that 2021 bring some form of normality back to our lives. Never expecting that we would again be in a national lockdown, the consequences for so many are significant. However, again we are blessed to live in such an amazing location and work in an environment which provides
- [New Season, New Hedges](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-season-new-hedges/) - That time of the year has come around again! Let’s put away the brush cutter that is used to clear grasses from young trees and lets grab our planting spade! As part of our organic conversion, we must create buffer zones in between organic and non- organic areas around the farm, and some of our
- [Pigloos!](http://www.balcaskie.com/pigloos/) - A delivery of “Pigloo’s” arrived this month to provide mobile field shelters for the sows and piglets which spend their entire lives outside in paddocks. These “pigloo’s” are moved about with a new contraption made for us by Angus Boden-Smith at Pittarthie Farm – the “Pigloo crane”. Angus has been invaluable to us – helping
- [Let's Start at the Beginning](http://www.balcaskie.com/lets-start-at-the-beginning/) - Where to begin, probably with a “Hello” and glad to be able to say we are all well in the gardens team. Do not worry much has passed us by so I will not write a book for you all, but I am just glad that we have made great progress in this challenging year.
- [Changing Colours](http://www.balcaskie.com/changing-colours/) - As the clocks change, so to does the growth of grass and crops. Although we are planning to keep or cows out for the winter, November is a time when all cattle come in for routine health testing, pregnancy scanning, foot trimming and this year – our 4 year TB test is also due. The
- [These Little Piggies.....](http://www.balcaskie.com/these-little-piggies/) - We have been lucky to enjoy a great September for establishing crops in near perfect conditions and with the hard work of the team, have managed to gather all the straw, establish all of the grass, plant the winter crops and only have the last fields to sow after potatoes. A few days of rain
- [Equinox Winds](http://www.balcaskie.com/equinox-winds/) - September usually sees strong winds and a dry spell to complete harvest. Known as the “Equinox Winds” these coincide with the shortening of days and are a welcome regular visitor to help finish off the gathering in of the years cereals. This years harvest has been a pretty average affair, with crops suffering over last
- [Balcaskie Pod Cast](http://www.balcaskie.com/balcaskie-pod-cast/) - Farming in an economically viable and environmentally sustainable manner Listen to Beef Specialist Consultant, Robert Ramsay, as he chats to Sam Parson, the Farms Estate Director at Balcaskie Estate. Sam explains that the farm has a 50-year outlook for the business and as a result both economic resilience and climate change led farm management changes.
- [Combining Cattle & Woodland](http://www.balcaskie.com/combining-cattle-woodland/) - Harvest is upon us with winter barley being combined and heading for malting, in readiness for breweries across the UK. Every year, harvest signals a renewed urgency to watch weather forecasts, plan and re-plan as they change. As soon as the combine has begun, the baler follows behind collecting winter bedding straw. This year, straw
- [Invasive Aliens](http://www.balcaskie.com/invasive-aliens/) - At this time of the year we usually try to take care of some of the unwanted green invaders. Giant Hogweed and Himalayan Balsam. Giant Hogweed was introduced to Britain in the 19th Century and proved to be very invasive along riverbanks and water crossings. With a height of 2-5 metres, a mature plant is
- [From One Extreme to The Other](http://www.balcaskie.com/from-one-extreme-to-the-other/) - May was officially the sunniest since records began. With a total of 185mm of rain in the year to date, we have gone from one extreme to the other. The unbroken sunshine is a welcome distraction from the ongoing lockdown, but signs of recovery are beginning to show with more people visiting the East Neuk
- [Linking The East Neuk](http://www.balcaskie.com/linking-the-east-neuk/) - While we all remain in the strange world of social distancing due to Covid 19, those of us lucky enough to live in this stunning part of Scotland have enjoyed almost unbroken sunshine and watched spring unfurling into a green, colourful and wildlife rich canvas. The number of walkers enjoying social distancing in fields and
- [Bright Delight](http://www.balcaskie.com/bright-delight/) - Spring has arrived with rays of sunshine and heat! What a clear contrast from the vast amount of heavy rain that drenched us this past winter. This recent spell of dry weather coupled with the late delivery of seeds, due to present restrictions, mean we have changed our plan in using the new type of
- [A Little Bit of Shape & Structure](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-little-bit-of-shape-structure/) - The last month has seen, thankfully, several ongoing tasks and projects completed. It has be a long hard process but the metal edging installation has now been completed, with the addition of drainage to the side pathways of the Croquet lawn which is relieving the water retention on these paths. It is beginning to dry
- [Observing Wildlife](http://www.balcaskie.com/observing-wildlife/) - The big Farm Watch (a counting scheme) organised by the GWCT, took place at the end of February. The principal of the count is really simple and well explained on the GWCT website, it is a half an hour recording of the bird population on one given site. I would encourage anyone in self-isolation to
- [A Remote Link](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-remote-link/) - Much has changed in the last month. Who would have expected the rapid halting of all activity worldwide and the massive disruption to peoples lives? With many of the businesses located on the estate now closed for a period, there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding how they will re-shape and re-open in the months
- [Monitoring and Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/monitoring-and-maintenance/) - March sees the beginning of lambing and calving season for us and with all cows now housed in preparation for the “maternity care”, early lambing ewes in the shed for close monitoring, we are well underway now. As soon as there is a period of dry sunny weather forecast, the first calves and lambs will
- [Waiting for "Spring” Watch](http://www.balcaskie.com/waiting-for-spring-watch/) - These last few months we have been busy planting trees, 10,000 off them! Similar to last year, we have been replanting hedges and gaping up existing lines from North Baldutho all the way to Ovenstone livery yard. With the help of local casual labour, we have planted mostly beech (Fagus sylvitic) and holly (Ilex aquifolium)
- [A Little Hope of Spring](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-little-hope-of-spring/) - January was a long month for us but I am so delighted to say that the tree planting has now been completed and what a great job the whole team have done, battling the elements to get over 4000 plants into the ground and to a very high standard also. Its amazing to look at
- [Mighty Oaks from Little Acorns Grow](http://www.balcaskie.com/mighty-oaks-from-little-acorns-grow/) - 2020 has arrived and what a start it has been. We arrived back after our Holidays and restful time off to a large-scale project that we had been planning for the last few months. Materials and plant stock for the policy tree planting. We carried out policy tree planting in previous years which was on
- [Nice to "Meat" You](http://www.balcaskie.com/nice-to-meat-you/) - January was a busy month with livestock work. We are part of the Scottish Premium Health Scheme, which requires breeding stock and youngstock to be tested for various diseases which affect both performance and the long-term heath of the Scottish herds. We also pregnancy diagnose all breeding cows to identify those which are in calf
- [Happy New Year](http://www.balcaskie.com/happy-new-year/) - Welcoming in the new decade with excitement and following a well-earned rest for everyone over the festive season, the team are fully refreshed, and we look forward to a positive year ahead. We are delighted to introduce Mick Shaw who has joined the team as Livestock and Pasture Manager. Mick has made the move north
- [Weathering the Storms](http://www.balcaskie.com/weathering-the-storms/) - It is that time of year where the gardens are truly asleep in most areas, but we are not. We have been very busy carrying out projects which take up most of our time during the Winter months. We have battled through the bad weather to keep on top of the Middle Terrace works installing
- [Winter Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/winter-maintenance/) - December is a month of routine maintenance and preparing for the colder winter months. All of the properties have their roofs, down pipes and gutters checked to prevent frost from cracking cast ironwork where blockages caused by leaves can cause rainwater to freeze. We are underway again with some re-roofing works at Wester Kellie Farm,
- [From Apples to Urns](http://www.balcaskie.com/from-apples-to-urns/) - It has been a busy period here in the gardens and a varied one at that. There have been many highlights this month, one being welcoming our newest member of the gardens team Martin Cuthbert. Martin brings passion for all areas of gardening and a keen eye for detail, which is fantastic. He hasn’t had
- [Ploughing On](http://www.balcaskie.com/ploughing-on/) - October has been an especially varied month on the estate with not only a lot going on, but with some additional events added to the normal farming calendar. The final fields of wheat have been sown on land which benefited from international champion ploughmen and women lending a helping hand. The Scottish National and European
- [A Busy Livestock Month](http://www.balcaskie.com/busy-livestock-month/) - Arable With most of the arable work completed last month it has been a fairly quiet time for any arable work. We still have 2 fields to plough but one needs to be spread with FYM, and the other one still has some Luing cows grazing it. Having said that Andy and Robert have still
- [A Roof at the Inn](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-roof-at-the-inn/) - Progress at the Kinneuchar Inn with the ongoing renovations have turned a corner. The building has been stabilised and new internal strength added to sure up the “distinctive list”. Attention has now turned to construction with all of the demolition complete. The building has been re-roofed (with the old pan tiles) and we look forward
- [A Tree Isn't Just for Christmas.](http://www.balcaskie.com/tree-isnt-just-christmas/) - The gardening team have moved on from the big edging project, to the first of the winter planting jobs at the west lodge. We have planted evergreen screens to give the lodge both visual and noise protection, the most effective sound screening for year-round comes from large leaved evergreens which are best grown wide to
- [Nollaigh Chridhell](http://www.balcaskie.com/nollaigh-chridhell/) - As the calendar year come to an end it’s time to take stock of what we have in achieved which then gives us a better idea of what to focus on for 2019. We started the mammoth task of replanting hedges and closing the gaps in the existing one. It will take us a long
- [Singles, Twins & Triplets](http://www.balcaskie.com/singles-twins-triplets/) - Arable This month has also been fairly quiet on the arable side of the farm. We did have a couple of days mucking out our neighbours cattle courts. We also had a week taking out FYM at Lochty and North Baldutho. This is stockpiled in grass fields to decompose ready to be spread in the
- [Fitness and Wellbeing](http://www.balcaskie.com/fitness-and-wellbeing/) - This month sees the first non-food weekend event at Bowhouse with a fantastic line up of instructors to help motivate and encourage people to take more exercise. As it is at Bowhouse and food plays such a significant part of a healthy life, there are food demos and nutritional workshops. Over the next year we
- [An Engineering Project](http://www.balcaskie.com/an-engineering-project/) - The weather so far, this year in the East Neuk of Fife has been good for work in the garden a bit cold and frosty at times, but fortunately the frosts have been light and have not penetrated the soil to any depth. This has allowed us to make a good start on our tree
- [On The "Hedge" of my Seat](http://www.balcaskie.com/on-the-hedge-of-my-seat/) - The weather has been kind so far this winter and has given us the opportunity to look after our hedges. This time we have focused on replanting established hedges from a few years back, we try to plant as many native plants as possible. The list composes of hawthorn (crataegus monogyna), blackthorn (prunus spinea), hazel
- [Spring Seeds](http://www.balcaskie.com/spring-seeds/) - Arable January has so far been a good dry month all the winter crops are looking well, with no bare patches in any of the fields. We have dressed the seed for sowing in the spring, 9 ton of Paragon Spring Wheat and 4 tons of Spring Beans. This is all done by a contractor
- [Zigging and Zagging](http://www.balcaskie.com/zigging-and-zagging/) - Its now a transitional period in the gardens having spent most of our man hours during the winter on what would be termed as landscape projects, we are now moving over to more regular maintenance tasks such as cyclical weeding and mowing. The main projects undertaken during the winter have all been completed on schedule
- [Pigs, Pub and Progress](http://www.balcaskie.com/pigs-pub-progress/) - After a long awaited start, we have begun renovation work on the Kinneuchar Inn. The property has seen several refurbishments and alterations over the centuries, and will now undergo, its most thorough one yet. The buildings distinctive “Lean” is due to unstable ground conditions beneath. Whilst providing plenty of character, it has proven a bit
- [Pastures New](http://www.balcaskie.com/pastures-new/) - Ally Marshall who joined Balcaskie in 2012 as stockman at North Baldutho has moved onto pastures new. He and his family have taken the plunge to move back to take a job closer to home near Forfar and to progress his career. We all wish Ally, Netty, Aron and Leona a very successful future. Recruiting
- [Busy Times](http://www.balcaskie.com/busy-times/) - Arable Robert and Andy have been quite busy, spreading FYM on 250 hectares of grassland. This was mainly spread on grass we will be cutting for silage or hay. It has all been applied at just over 10 tons per Ha so as you can see we had a fair few tons to shift. This
- [Mob Grazing](http://www.balcaskie.com/mob-grazing/) - North Baldutho Farmhouse is a step closer to completion, with the roof cladding now fitted, floor screeds poured and underfloor heating loops in place. This unconventional building will be clad with tin sheeting to mirror the surrounding farm buildings. Heating and hot water will be provided by ground source heat recovery pumps and electricity will
- [Great weather for ducks.](http://www.balcaskie.com/great-weather-ducks/) - We have been very fortunate this year with the glorious summer weather. While we wait for the harvest to start and to count the young partridges coveys, we can enjoy the site of ducklings, moorhen chicks and little grebes on the reservoir. If you are out around dawn or dusk you may also be lucky
- [Extreme Dry Weather](http://www.balcaskie.com/extreme-dry-weather/) - As I currently write we are having an extremely dry spell and so are spending a lot of our time watering the plants that we have put in this spring. These are mostly watered by direct hose application to the base of the plant as putting on sprinklers tends to water the whole area a
- [August is upon us.](http://www.balcaskie.com/august-upon-us/) - Bowhouse Food market in July met with record numbers of visitors, shoppers and those interested in the local food network. Welcoming over 5600 people through the doors on a blazing hot July weekend (with the World Cup to boot) was an astonishing achievement for the team involved. Over the year since our first Food Weekend
- [Markets and Maintenance](http://www.balcaskie.com/markets-and-maintenance/) - This month we had the opportunity to educate some of the visitors that came to the Bowhouse Food Market with a stand showing the conservation work that Balcaskie Estate are doing to help the red listed species to thrive on our Estate. I was able to tell the visitors about the conservation work that we
- [Winter landscaping](http://www.balcaskie.com/winter-landscaping/) - We are well into winter now and we seem to have had quite a cold start compared to recent years. We have covered some plants that are staying outside with fleece, like the Brugmansia in front of Toby's garden door. Other tender perennials, which if they die down tend to shoot back up from the
- [A Tractor with 2 Wheels!](http://www.balcaskie.com/scotlands-garden-scheme/) - Yet another open day has passed here at Balcaskie Gardens and once again the weather has been less than favourable. Rain in the morning is not helpful even if it does clear in the afternoon as people will tend to make their decisions for the day early. But having less than perfect weather did not
- [Keeping the plot](http://www.balcaskie.com/keeping-the-plot/) - Our first Bowhouse Christmas Food Weekend was a fantastic success, welcoming over 5000 people and over 80 stalls, creating a memorable festive occasion. I have to thank all of the Balcaskie team who work so hard to make it such a success. From the behind the scene organisation, to set up and on the day,
- [Harvest Time](http://www.balcaskie.com/harvest/) - With the great Scottish weather playing its part, as soon as we got the combine out, the rain started. Not to be held back though we have almost completed harvest, just another few dry days will see us to the end. We have whole cropped 32 hectares of Spring Barley which will be fed to
- [Planting Whips](http://www.balcaskie.com/planting-whips/) - Following the planting of the specimens the new areas of woodland have now been under-planted with smaller stock a mixture of trees that will help to fill in and maybe take over if some of the specimens do not take. Along with these, is a mixture of more shrubby plants that will form the under-story,
- [Organic September](http://www.balcaskie.com/organic-september/) - Gordon Stewart who was the second generation to farm at Abercrombie on Balcaskie Estate sadly passed away in August at the age of 82. Brought up on the farm, Gordon’s keen eye for detail can be seen in very corner of the place. Extra pressure on his neighbours to maintain weed free crops and neat
- [Watch The Birdie.](http://www.balcaskie.com/watch-the-birdie/) - February saw the completion of another large expanse of hedge restoration, which stretched from Carnbee to Arncroach, with a big area being planted on Kellie Law. It will take the Beech hedges a few years to establish but the benefits to the wildlife will be worth the wait! The transformation that Balcaskie is making to
- [Holistic Management](http://www.balcaskie.com/holistic-management/) - Kinneuchar Inn. The extensive renovations continue with pace and we are delighted now to have completed the destructive phase of building and begun the constructive phase. With the restaurant roof now back on, the kitchen and butchery now built, electrician and plumbers have been working hard to install all of the services. There remains a
- [All tucked up for winter](http://www.balcaskie.com/all-tucked-up-for-winter/) - It has been quite a busy last six weeks on the farm's livestock enterprise. All the fattening cattle brought in from summer grazing in the fields has to be housed at Lochty. Calves weaned from their mothers are transported to Lochty from North Baldutho in our own livestock trailer and housed. Cows are all housed
- [Carting muck of one kind or another](http://www.balcaskie.com/carting-muck-one-kind-another/) - We have woken up to very slight grass frosts not enough to damage any tender plants but, just enough to blacken the Dahlias. So, we have made a start on bringing things in and protecting before harsher weather comes along. Most of the plants that spent the summer in urns have now been transferred into
- [The last tree in the avenue](http://www.balcaskie.com/last-tree-avenue/) - The cold weather that came in at the end of last year has returned and frozen ground could well slow down some of the winter landscape projects that we had lined up.
- [Timber harvest, boreholes and beer](http://www.balcaskie.com/timber-harvest-boreholes-beer/) - With harvest now complete, winter conventional crops sown, cattle housed for winter and clocks gone back, the farm is back into its winter routine. Much of this time of year is spent on livestock care with daily bedding and feeding using our own homegrown feeds. Pasture is rested and grazed only lightly with sheep to
- [Fantastic Fungi](http://www.balcaskie.com/fantastic-fungi/) - Autumn is upon us now and the trees are changing their colours, the leaves are slowly changing from a sharp green to a mellow yellow and will soon be golden, red and brown. This happens as the leaves stop their food making process due to changes in the length of daylight and temperature and the
- [The autumn garden](http://www.balcaskie.com/red-squirrel-sciurus-vulgaris/) - Nearly all the apples and pears have now been picked and used or stored. The timing of this was just about right as they were starting to fall as we picked them, if they had been left much longer they would have hit the ground with a big thump as the result of the high
- [New Zealand Lambers](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-zealand-lambers/) - Arable Andy started to sow organic Spring Beans around the middle of the month. We have grown organic beans for the past 2 years without much success, hopefully this year we will have a better yield! He has also sown the Paragon spring wheat on one of the farms next to the coast. We have
- [Apples, apples and more apples.](http://www.balcaskie.com/apples-apples-apples/) - Following on from the open days we have had quite an exciting period in the gardens. For the visit of our colleagues of South Kensington Estates from London we managed to produce the salads that we all enjoyed at the Barbeque at Bowhouse. These were brilliantly dressed and prepared by Chris Jacobs to compliment the
- [Starring Poseur and Cameron](http://www.balcaskie.com/starring-poser-cameron/) - With the second Bowhouse Food Weekend now over, thoughts have turned to the Christmas food weekend. Held over 9th and 10th December, there is much planning to do with the focus on a mix of food and crafts/gifts. The new layout, extending street food into the lean-to at the back of the farm was a
- [New faces](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-faces/) - We are delighted to welcome Fit to the Core into the Old Grain Loft at Bowhouse, where Suzy and her team will be operating their gym – which moved from St Monans to the newly renovated space in January.
- [Spring has Sprung](http://www.balcaskie.com/spring-has-sprung/) - Between the rain and snow showers we have been busy completing the winter projects and even having time to give the first cut to the formal lawn. Lesley has been busy pruning and cutting back and has been preparing the long boarder on the top terrace for its new upgraded planting scheme. It’s all beginning
- [Autumn's bounty](http://www.balcaskie.com/autumns-bounty/) - Autumn is harvest time and also time to get ready for winter. It is when the squirrels gather their food for the winter months: acorns, hazelnuts, chestnuts are all in abundance at this time of year. We are lucky nature has given us more than just these at this time of the year – we
- [Poul the expert bale carter](http://www.balcaskie.com/poul-expert-bale-carter/) - All the harvest is finished apart from the Spring Beans and about 8Ha of straw to bale. The Spring Beans will probably be ready to harvest nearer the end of the month. The combine has software to record yields of each field and they have now been downloaded and recorded on the office computer. In
- [Turning Over a New Leaf](http://www.balcaskie.com/turning-new-leaf/) - The last of the leaves on the beech hedges are hanging on and no more as Spring is on the way. The forestry work in the amenity woodland started in late 2018 by a local contractor and is on the way to completion using a winch and a very small forwarder in order to minimize
- [Scrumping and scarifying](http://www.balcaskie.com/1595-2/) - It does look as if we have had a bumper crop of fruit in the orchard this summer. Plums, especially the Victoria’s and Damsons, were very heavy and there are much better crops of pears compared to last year. The excesses have aroused the attentions of some unwelcome visitors who have been scrumping on a
- [Organic moves afoot](http://www.balcaskie.com/1591-2/) - Harvest is almost finished. Only one field of Organic Spring Barley to cut, and one field of Organic Beans. Hopefully we will get the Spring Barley cut on the next good, dry day. The beans could be well into October as they are still quite green. The spring barley was grown for the malting trade
- [Weathering The Storm](http://www.balcaskie.com/weathering-the-storm/) - Storm Ali lived up to its name and caused some fairly extensive disruption during the 24 hours in mid-September. With many trees still in leaf and with dry ground around their roots, we lost a few large centuries old trees. Over the past decade or so, we have been losing them at an increased rate
- [Snowdrops & optimism](http://www.balcaskie.com/snowdrops-optimism/) - Well this coldish winter seems as if it is in no hurry to abate. Certainly, compared to last year we have had a much greater number of frosty nights and days.
- [Harvest, herbal leys and beer](http://www.balcaskie.com/harvest-herbal-leys-beer/) - With the end of August now passed and most crops safely gathered, we can now reflect and analyse the results. One of the earliest harvests I have known, brought on by the exceptionally dry spring and wet June and July. These seasonal variations Mother Nature brings remind us as farmers, that we only harvest sunshine.
- [Busman's Holiday](http://www.balcaskie.com/busmans-holiday/) - Having been away for a week it is always nice to come back and see that things have apparently jumped forward and I was especially pleased to see the Daturas eventually flowering, very late this year compared to usual. This is mainly since this winter they died down right to the ground due to the
- [Hot chilli peppers and water beds](http://www.balcaskie.com/hot-chilli-peppers-water-beds/) - The new plantings on the top terrace, the parterre and the daisy border are getting well established and colourful. The weather has done us a few favours here as it was quite warm and dry when we planted, but soon afterwards the weather turned wet and mainly warm so growth has been quite prolific. In
- [In like a lamb...](http://www.balcaskie.com/in-like-a-lamb/) - March has an old saying, "In like a Lamb – Out like a Lion". I can only assume we will be wearing shorts come the end of the month?
- [Spring Sowing](http://www.balcaskie.com/spring-sowing/) - All the spring sowing has now finished, with all the crops going into the ground in good conditions. The Laureate Spring malting barley is already through the ground, and dare I say it would benefit from a day’s rain! We have also given the Winter Wheat and Winter Barley there second application of variable rate
- [Pruning hedges and fruit trees](http://www.balcaskie.com/pruning-hedges-fruit-trees/) - The weather is nearly always the first topic of conversation among gardeners so I will not try to break with that tradition. Well-made plans of starting lawn-care programmes have been shot to pieces by the prolonged period of drought and then by very unsettled periods with heavy rainfall. As lawn care can be carried on
- [Wandering Waders](http://www.balcaskie.com/wandering-waders/) - Many groups and organisation such as the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, RSPB, National Farmers Union, The Forestry Commission and The British Trust for Ornithology came together last month at a conference in Perth to find a solution to the crisis facing the disappearance of the curlew, this big emblematic bird, symbol of the coast
- [Farming and Fashion](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-fashion/) - This month we welcome Nathan Reilly to Balcaskie Farms as he starts his new role as Head Stockman. Having spent much of his career in Scotland running similar enterprises to those at Balcaskie, Nathan took the chance to travel to NZ and learn how pasture is managed and farming coped with changes in the subsidy
- [A 2 Week Holiday](http://www.balcaskie.com/2-week-holiday/) - All sowing has now finished with the last field of organic wheat sown at the end of the month. This field is ear marked for Scotland the Bread to make organic flour. The rest of the crops are looking amazingly well, with no patches that have failed to establish. It’s been a long time since
- [Open Days](http://www.balcaskie.com/open-days/) - The gardens had their annual opening in the spring this year for a change and also for a change we had reasonable weather. We returned to a type of opening this year that we first tried in 2017 where we joined in the Scotlands Gardens, Fife garden trails. This involves several gardens in the area
- [November](http://www.balcaskie.com/november/) - North Baldutho Farmhouse was completed on 26th October enabling Ally, Netty, Arran and Leona to move in to their new house. The additional space will be welcome as will the spectacular views across the Forth and beyond. We look forward to seeing how this modern house compares with our more traditional builds in terms of
- [Biodiversity hotspots](http://www.balcaskie.com/biodiversity-hotspots/) - This last few weeks we have been busy planting new hedges and beating up existing ones. Hedges are beneficial for many different reasons – from field shelter for stock to stopping wind erosion.
- [Bog mats and mob grazing](http://www.balcaskie.com/bog-mats-mob-grazing/) - We are busy planning the next Bowhouse Food Weekend in September. Every day is a school day, and we are learning many new skills with events now becoming a regular feature on the estate.
- [Hotchi-witchi](http://www.balcaskie.com/hotchi-witchi/) - Last month I came across an interesting article about Hedgehog survival, so wanted to chat about them for my November blog! Unfortunately, there will have been several hedgehogs lost with it having just been Guy Fawkes night as many bonfires would have been lit and as we all know this is where many hedgehogs choose
- [Birds, bats, bees and more](http://www.balcaskie.com/birds-bats-bees/) - As a game and wildlife officer some of my duties are to manage areas of the farms and woodlands for the benefit of birds, deer and other wildlife. At Balcaskie we have 20 hectares of dedicated game cover, which is utilised by many species. This wet summer has not made things easy for ground-nesting birds
- [The beast from the east](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-beast-from-the-east/) - We are now, at time of writing, in the second half of March and the beast from the east is still giving us a hard time, there is now talk of it coming back for a third time to make us suffer.
- [Tyre kicking and muttering...](http://www.balcaskie.com/tyre-kicking-muttering/) - Harvest started around the beginning of August, then stopped, started, stopped, started, to put it mildly the weather has been a bit mixed!!!!! I think the long dry spell in the spring may have had some effect, especially in two fields. Things started to look up when we started the oilseed rape. Two cracking days
- [The Straight Edge was Easy.](http://www.balcaskie.com/straight-edge-easy/) - A mild start to winter has allowed us to make good progress on the landscaping projects that we have lined up for the season. The main ones that we will be doing this time around are putting metal lawn edges onto the oval drive followed by the same operation on the middle terrace where at
- [Collecting Data](http://www.balcaskie.com/collecting-data/) - The days are getting longer and this, as far as nature is concerned, is a fresh start. This is, for us, the best month to see which species have come up trumps after the winter battles by counting our bio indicator species like partridges, now paired up, and hares now out of there "march madness"
- [Leather Jackets......](http://www.balcaskie.com/leather-jackets/) - The organic Spring Barley and Winter Wheat has all been raked with a machine with small tines, this is done to disturb the soil and hopefully kill and suppress any small weeds in the crop. We have also sown organic Fodder Beet as a trial in one of the field next to the Spring barley.
- [A New Space](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-new-space/) - Delivery of our new building which came from Bothy Stores and has been long awaited was on 7th of May. Installing this beautiful prefabricated unit at Comielaw, the simplicity of this was down to some military organisation by Bobby at Bothy Stores. This new construction, which can be used as workspace or accommodation, will enable
- [Conservation & Education](http://www.balcaskie.com/conservation-education/) - I was extremely fortunate to travel to New Zealand last month and while I was there I visited many wildlife reserves and sanctuaries. The wildlife was outstanding with an amazing range from insect to bird life. The most astonishing part of the trip was the knowledge of the general population in the need for conservation
- [Mighty Mouse](http://www.balcaskie.com/mighty-mouse/) - Well what a spring this has been, started with the “Beast from the East” in early March, and didn’t improve much until the middle of April. I have worked at Lochty for 35 years and cannot remember a spring as wet and cold as this one has been. Lambing. We started lambing 200 ewes indoors
- [Life's a Beech](http://www.balcaskie.com/lifes-a-beech/) - The last of the open days May 3rd was blessed with decent weather and although not quite as busy as the Good Friday opening non the less a reasonable day, which helped us to raise £470 pounds for the nominated charities of the of the East Neuk first responders and the Rotary club of St
- [Open Farm Weekend](http://www.balcaskie.com/open-farm-weekend/) - With calving and lambing now completed for the spring, our thoughts have turned to breeding next years calves. A change in farming practice to Organic production began in May 2016, when the first land and all stock started their conversion period (2 years), since then, we have added more land to the organic farm and
- [A Social Catch Up](http://www.balcaskie.com/a-social-catch-up/) - This month we have been busy clearing out some of the sheds the cattle were housed in over the winter. All this FYM is carted out to the fields, to be piled up and left to decompose a little over the next 6-7 months. This is then spread on the grass in the spring next
- [It's Official](http://www.balcaskie.com/its-official/) - It is now officially summertime when the garden will be at its most colourful and interesting. It will also be the time to make the most of and enjoy the garden and obtain the benefits of all the hard work put in during the less favourable periods. Most plants are a bit more lush than
- [Surveys & Samples](http://www.balcaskie.com/2906-2/) - This month we attended a really interesting event run by The Soil Association whereby we visited a dairy farm who run their herd on Mob Grazing. The main focus of the visit was to study the grass and how to improve the soil quality for the benefit of the cattle and the farmer. Here at
- [Never a Dull Moment](http://www.balcaskie.com/never-dull-moment/) - Bowhouse market in June coincided with Open Farm Sunday, organised by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) to encourage farms to open up once a year and provide an insight into what happens on farms. We took this opportunity to bring some of the farm to Bowhouse and with the help of the farm and estate
- [Luing Cattle Society](http://www.balcaskie.com/luing-cattle-society/) - This month is usually quiet so a lot of the staff take some holidays, but this year we have had the Luing Cattle Society open day. Therefore it was all hands on deck, clearing out the rest of the cattle sheds, and washing them out with a pressure washer. We also washed the cattle handling
- [Air, Food & Water](http://www.balcaskie.com/air-food-water/) - Its been a busy period here in the gardens with every plant and grass blade catching our eye asking for our attention. Lesley has recently completed the major task of Summer pruning the fruit trees in the orchard. This Summer pruning has resulted in not only nicely shaped healthy trees but also fruit that can
- [Bats about Butterflies](http://www.balcaskie.com/bats-about-butterflies/) - This month we completed the soil health tests over most of the Estate. This will give us a good starting point to see how much we are improving our soil by the different experiments conducted which includes using diverse herbal lays, spreading compost, mob grazing cattle and also potentially sheep. We are also looking into
- [Organic Beef & Lamb](http://www.balcaskie.com/organic-beef-lamb/) - July Bowhouse weekend saw the first appearance of Balcaskie trading on a stall with our own Organic Beef and Lamb. Experiencing the market from a new perspective, we welcomed over 4500 customers and sold over 50% of the Beef and Lamb joints. The remaining meat has been sold to our own customers at Balcaskie from
- [One Word.....](http://www.balcaskie.com/one-word/) - I could begin and end this month with one word...... rain. The trusty waterproofs have come into their own and have been the most useful items in the shed for this month. It has been a good month besides the obvious wet weather. The highlight of the month was being able to have a charity
- [All About Trees](http://www.balcaskie.com/all-about-trees/) - The month we travelled to Grantown on Spey to take part in a Soil Association's convention to learn about the use of trees as fodder for our cattle. The meeting was extremely interesting with a brilliant lecture from Dr Lindsay Whistance, amongst others, about the utility of trees in raising cows. The use of trees
- [Seeing Red](http://www.balcaskie.com/seeing-red/) - The recent return of summer at the end of August provided a much needed boost at the right time for harvest to progress rapidly and see much of the wheat and barley safely gathered in. With a burst of activity over the very hot weekend, we were pleased to be able to help our neighbours
- [Rolls of Turf](http://www.balcaskie.com/rolls-of-turf/) - It has been a busy time for us here in the gardens yet again trying to stay as dry as possible and now the sun cream has truly been put away for another year. We have been planning work on the East Lodge garden, reinstating hedging at Kinneuchar Inn and tidying up some of the
- [New Stock](http://www.balcaskie.com/new-stock/) - Harvest 2019 was finally completed on 1st October, with the last fields of Spring Wheat being cut and baled at Bowhouse, ready for the Scottish National and European Vintage Ploughing match on the 26th and 27th October. This seasons harvest was punctuated by some periods of heavy rain which have created wet ground conditions for
- [Colour Changes](http://www.balcaskie.com/colour-changes/) - Autumn has arrived and with it the leaves are now falling. Walking around this morning looking at the list of jobs for next week, it’s a joy to see the colours changing and the landscape we have seen for the Summer change to a new one. It’s not all doom and gloom, it’s a new

## Pages

- [Home](http://www.balcaskie.com/)
- [The Team](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/the-team/) - The Team Managing an estate such as Balcaskie is a challenge: the work is never finished but the complexity of the choreography of so many diverse uses means we never get bored! Meet the team who make it all happen. A Career in Rural Skills Toby Anstruther Sam Parsons, Estate Manager Dave Nicol, Tractorman Kylie
- [Residential](http://www.balcaskie.com/live-and-work/live-work-2/) - Residential Property Balcaskie has a number of beautiful, traditional cottages & farm buildings in idyllic rural East Neuk settings. A long-term reinvestment programme sees the upgrade or conversion of these wonderful buildings into homes to let. A place to live Beyond being a place where people work, Balcaskie is also a place where people live.
- [Crops](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/conventional-arable/) - Crops Provenance is of utmost importance to Balcaskie and our long-term objectives include a continuous improvement programme following the principles of Integrated Farm Management as set out by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming). Crops include Wheat, Rye, Beans, Oats and Barley for customers including Scotland the Bread and Hodmedod's. Growing nutrient dense heritage varieties for human
- [Estate Tours](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/grass-to-grill-estate-tours/) - Estate Tours Grass to Grill Estate Tours A showcase of our organic farming landscape and produce from Balcaskie Join us for an experience of our organic, regenerative estate, travelling by tractor and trailer, with each tour date following the farming calendar. This event is designed to tell the field-to-fork journey in an immersive and interactive
- [Local Community](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/local-community-2/) - Local Community With an active role in the local communities and the physical resource to lend a hand where possible, we are able to assist with a wide range of activities, from provision of premises and donations of Christmas trees to beach cleaning and tree planting. We also work closely with other local organisations, including
- [The Estate](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/) - The Estate The East Neuk Of Fife Balcaskie House Balcaskie Gardens The Local Community East Neuk Estates The Team
- [Places To Stay](http://www.balcaskie.com/stay-and-eat/places-to-stay/) - Places To Stay If you are looking for a countryside or seaside escape to the beautiful East Neuk we have a range of accommodation both on and surrounding Balcaskie offered by ourselves and our neighbouring estates and villages. Comielaw Artist Bothy The Artist Bothy provides space for accommodation and creative working, inspired by traditional
- [Pitch Up!](http://www.balcaskie.com/pitch-up/) - Pitch Up! Pitch Up! and Grow: invitation to businesses to come and use rural land You’ve got ideas, we’ve got land: so come and use it. The innovative scheme invites businesses to make use of rural land. Pitch Up! is returning to Balcaskie Estate and is now part of a fast-growing network of farms across
- [Wild Farming](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/wild-farming/) - Wild Farming Stewardship of the environment and wildlife is a key priority at Balcaskie and our aim is to increase the vitality of all of our land. The estate has achieved Wildlife Estates Scotland (WES) certification. Visit WES Long-term sustainability Informed farm management considers the diverse local flora and fauna, harmonising mixed farming practice and long-term
- [Commercial](http://www.balcaskie.com/live-and-work/commercial/) - Commercial Balcaskie has a number of refurbished traditional farm steadings, no longer suitable for machinery or animal welfare standards on a modern farm. With the intention of reproviding workshop and studio space lost over the years from nearby villages, we have a long-term programme of reinvestment into our traditional steadings. Accredited landlord by Landlord Accreditation
- [Sheep](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/sheep-2/) - The Sheep Flock Along with the cattle, sheep manage the grass and make the most of the pasture at Balcaskie. The flock of ewes are crossed with Suffolk, Hampshire Down, Texel and Shetland rams. The lambs graze young grass in the first years and also graze the organic cereals in Spring to help strengthen them.
- [East Neuk Estates](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/east-neuk-estates-2/) - East Neuk Estates Balcaskie is a founding member of the East Neuk Estates group of seven local family-run estates, comprised of Balcarres, Charleton, Elie, Gilston, Kilconquhar and Strathtyrum, which work collaboratively to achieve common goals and focus on long-term, community-led plans. Visit East Neuk Estates Community Awards East Neuk Estates founded the East Neuk
- [Ownership](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/ownership/) - Ownership Balcaskie Estate is owned by The Alexander Trust, a UK-domiciled trust held by two trustees: Thirdpart 2003 Ltd and Alfred Place Ltd. This means the Legal owners of Balcaskie are Alfred Place Ltd and Thirdpart 2003 Ltd. The Anstruther Family are the principle beneficiaries of the Trusts and live at Balcaskie. Thirdpart 2003 Limited a Company incorporated under the Companies
- [Businesses on the Estate](http://www.balcaskie.com/businesses-on-the-estate/) - Businesses on the Estate Balcaskie is home to a wide variety of independent businesses, each contributing to the area's distinctive charm and thriving local economy. From artisanal food producers and unique retailers to skilled craftsperson's and sustainable farming, we support a vibrant network of entrepreneurs. These independent businesses not only offer high-quality, locally made products
- [Gallery](http://www.balcaskie.com/gallery/) - Gallery A snapshot of Balcaskie in images
- [Live & Work](http://www.balcaskie.com/live-and-work/) - Live & Work A long-term programme of reinvestment into traditional steadings to reprovide workshop and studio space lost over the years from nearby villages, as well as residential homes Residential Commercial
- [Organic Farming](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/farming-natural-environment-introduction2-2/) - Organic Farming On the in-hand farm, the way we farm is as important as what we farm. We aim for efficiency and high standards within the clear framework of farming as part of a sustainable environment. The fabric of the farm Around 1400ha of the farm is dedicated to livestock production, farmed organically: a
- [Contact Us](http://www.balcaskie.com/contact-us/) - Contact Us Balcaskie Estate Office Easter Kellie Farm Arncroach Anstruther KY10 2RF Phone: 01333 720 200 Email: info@balcaskie.com ///adverbs.quietly.amazed
- [Farming & The Natural Environment](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/) - Farming & The Natural Environment What is Agroecological Farming? Organic Farming Beef Sheep Pigs Crops Let Farms Wild Farming Produce
- [Pigs](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/pigs/) - Pigs A small herd of pedigree Tamworth pigs has been introduced as part of our mixed land use and integrating diverse enterprises which help to better match land use and produce. Our pigs live outside all year, rooting in pastures, cereal stubbles, forage crops and woodland. Slow maturing, the Tamworth is a natural forager and
- [Stay & Eat](http://www.balcaskie.com/stay-and-eat/) - Stay & Eat We are very fortunate to have a fantastic range of accommodation here in the East Neuk as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. Places To Stay Places To Eat
- [Produce](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/produce-2/) - Produce For more information on our Organic Beef, Lamb, Venison and Pork visit Butchery at Bowhouse For information on cereals, visit Scotland the Bread Balcaskie Beef More choice, less carbon Grazing from a variety of both naturally-occurring and specially-planted grass and herbs, our home-bred herd helps us to reduce our carbon footprint. By
- [Places To Eat](http://www.balcaskie.com/stay-and-eat/places-to-eat/) - Places To Eat The Kinneuchar Inn Baern The Harbour Cafe Crail Millar @ 16 West End The Dory Bistro The Cellar The Peat Inn
- [Beef](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/beef/) - The Beef Herd Focusing on traditional native breeds, our cattle make use of diverse pastures and graze most of the year on a rotational Mob Grazed system, benefiting both animal and soil health. Suckler cows Our pedigree Lincoln Red herd produces finished cattle year round and is fed on grass, hay or silage only. A
- [Butchery at Bowhouse](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/butchery-at-bowhouse/) - Butchery ORGANIC. PASTURE FED. DRY AGED. ETHICAL AND SUSTAINABLE Our aim at the butchery is simple, to produce the best possible tasting meat, meat which reminds people or perhaps introduces people to how good it can be. Starting with only the best animals, these are handpicked from surrounding Balcaskie estate, where they have been reared
- [Watten Estate, Caithness](http://www.balcaskie.com/watten-estate/)
- [The East Neuk of Fife](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/east-neuk-fife/) - The East Neuk of Fife The source of some of the best ingredients in Scotland, the East Neuk is bounded on three sides by sea, and with fertile volcanic soils, its bounty includes fish, soft fruit, vegetables and milling wheat along the coastal strip, malting barley beyond and pastures feeding livestock inland. East Neuk tourism
- [Balcaskie Gardens](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/balcaskie-gardens/) - Balcaskie Gardens The garden's terraces and vista are inspired by French Baroque gardens, such as Vaux-le-Vicomte. These were restored in the 18th century and the parterre was designed in the 1840s by WA Nesfield. The Bass Rock Balcaskie gardens include three broad terraces aligned on the Bass Rock, the famous landmark of the River Forth.
- [Let Farms](http://www.balcaskie.com/farming-and-the-natural-environment/let-farms/) - Let Farms Balcaskie has four let farms covering almost one third of the estate. Follow Balcaskie Facebook Opportunity The farms are let under a variety of agreements, with traditional mixed family farms and diversified businesses like Ovenstone Equine. Best practice Always striving to promote best practice, Balcaskie is committed to the Scottish Government’s industry guidance
- [Balcaskie House](http://www.balcaskie.com/the-estate/balcaskie-house/) - Balcaskie House The house is largely the creation of William Bruce who made it his home around the late 1600s when he was architect to King Charles II and working on Holyrood Palace. Later additions were made by William Burn, a prominent Scottish architect involved in other notable designs in Fife. Heart of the estate
- [Events at the Inn](http://www.balcaskie.com/events-at-the-inn/) - What's On at the Inn The Inn is currently closed for refurbishment Follow the Inn Facebook

## Jobs

- [Shepherd](http://www.balcaskie.com/job/shepherd/)

## Businesses

- [Theravet](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/theravet/) - Theravet is one of the UK's leading independent veterinary physiotherapy and hydrotherapy centres, serving equine, canine and small animal clients since 2000. In 2025 they opened a second rural branch here at Bowhouse, bringing a wealth of veterinary rehab expertise to Fife and beyond. The centre focuses on the rehabilitation and well being
- [East Neuk Market Garden](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/east-neuk-market-garden/) - East Neuk Market Garden is a 5 acre agroecological farm growing a wide variety of vegetables, salads and herbs for the local community. We run a 180 member (CSA) Community Supported Agriculture veg box scheme, as well as supplying local restaurants, cafes and shops. After merging with Falkland Kitchen Farm in 2024 we
- [East Neuk Eggs](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/east-neuk-eggs/) - Organic, free range eggs from hens raised on pasture in the East Neuk of Fife. email: mail@eastneukeggs.co.uk for enquiries.
- [The Living Apothecary](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/the-living-apothecary/) - OPEN Wednesday – Sunday (10am – 4pm) Wildcrafted Beauty – Rituals of the Earth Reimagine self-care with our raw, plant-based ingredients for hair, skin & body. Create your own beauty rituals with clays, salts, herbs, and oils – pure, simple, and close to the earth. A practice of self-love: nourish your body with what nature
- [Keeping the Plot](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/keeping-the-plot/) - At Keeping the Plot, everything is guided by care and respect for the environment. This means using agro-ecological and organic principles, farming without the use of chemicals. Unlike industrial growers we also don’t use artificial heat or light. Our philosophy leads us to embrace biodiversity as an integral part of the production process:
- [PXO Culture](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/pxo-culture/) - Human resources and culture change consultants. PXO are on a mission to make HR, culture and change about humans again and in doing so drive business success. They have moved beyond traditional processes and began to understand the human experience of work. By embracing an Agile mindset, we can start to work ‘with people’ rather
- [Stocks Kitchen](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/stocks-kitchen/) - Cookshop, Deli, Classes. Stocks Kitchen is a haven for chefs and foodies. They offer a range of cookware, tableware, pantry essentials and homemade ready prepared meals perfect for a quick yummy dinner. Open everyday 10am-4pm
- [Baern](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/baern/) - Baern was opened in 2022 by Hazel Powell & Giacomo Pesce, based on a love of eating together, cooking, foraging and having a good time. Baern is a community space for a great meal, pastry, glass of wine, good cup of coffee, and a loaf of bread. Opening Hours Thursday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm
- [Futtle](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/futtle/) - Futtle was brought to life in 2019 by Lucy & Stephen. Everything is fully organic and certified by the Soil Association. The brewing process uses whole grains and whole leaf hops, from trusted growers, who are upholding the highest standards on their farms. As well as the regular releases of agriculturally-focused,
- [Scotland the Bread](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/scotland-the-bread/) - Scotland The Bread is a collaborative project to establish a Scottish flour and bread supply that is healthy, equitable, locally controlled and sustainable. Our idea is simple – grow nutritious wheat and bake it properly close to home. Working together, we’ll change the entire system for the better: fair deals
- [Taran Guitars](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/taran-guitars/) - Taran Guitars meticulously build unique, world-class instruments from the finest materials which offer music lovers across the globe exceptional sound and design. Guided by our core principles of pursuing excellence in process and product, fostering innovation, sourcing responsibly, and embracing collaboration, we aim to shape the future of music
- [Di Gilpin](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/di-gilpin/) - Scottish hand knitting design studio. At Di Gilpin, they create beautiful yarns for handknitters with great patterns and accessories all made in Scotland! Visits are by appointment only and to book a visit to buy beautiful wool, patterns, Knitting Kits, Harris Tweed Knitting bags or hand knitted
- [Tribe Yarns](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/tribe-yarns/) - We are a knitter owned, local yarn shop carrying an exquisitely curated anthology of yarns & notions, guaranteed to raise your heart-beat! Life's too short for anything else. We are on a mission to get the world “making” again. Create, not consume. We truly believe that “making” is at
- [Elite Audio](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/elite-audio/) - Bespoke audio equipment supplier. Many of the worlds leading hi-fi brands available, worldwide shipping. Opening Hours Mon-Fri: 09:00 - 17:00 Sat: 09:00 - 13:00 Sun: CLOSED Email Website Instagram Facebook
- [Peter Boardman](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/peter-boardman/) - Architectural CGI Artist Peter Boardman founded his studio in 2017. His work revolves around the creation of accurate and engaging imagery through the use of cutting edge digital technologies. Peter specialises in photo-real architectural stills and animations for use in planning applications, competitions and marketing purposes. Website Instagram
- [Fife Campers](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/fife-campers/) - Will's journey began with cherished childhood caravan holidays in Devon and Cornwall, complemented by memorable travels throughout Scotland with grandparents in their classic Bedford van. These formative experiences fostered a deep appreciation for the outdoors and eventually inspired a lasting interest in a variety of outdoor pursuits, including
- [Stock Events](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/stock-events/) - Stocks Events is one of Scotland’s leading caterers, providing a wide range of services for both private and corporate clients at some of the country’s most beautiful venues. Lead by husband and wife Jack and Amy Elles, we cater for a variety of events including canapé parties, weddings, intimate dinners,
- [Eleanor Meredith](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/eleanor-meredith/) - Ceramic Artist Eleanor creates ceramics, paintings and prints. She has taught on the illustration BA at Norwich University of Arts, and run workshops at The BFI Animation Academy, The Apple store, V & A Museum, Ravensbourne College and the National Portrait Gallery. In 2011 Eleanor co-founded and art
- [Fife Beekeepers Association](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/beekeeping-fife/) - ‘The Fifeshire Beekeepers’ Association’ was founded on 22 July 1916, its President an aptly named William Honeyman Esq. J.P. of Craigmore, Cupar. Now usually known as ‘Fife Beekeepers’ Association’ it has worked for over ninety years to support beekeepers and promote apiculture. It celebrated its ninetieth anniversary by raising enough money to provide ninety-seven hives
- [Vandyke Brothers - Specialty Coffee](http://www.balcaskie.com/business/vandyke-brothers-specialty-coffee/) - The Vandyke Brothers Specialty Coffee business started its journey in 2010 back in the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Operations in the UK began in 2015 with Slaughterhouse Coffee. The aim was to show that doing specialty coffee well, even in an unlikely location, would attract coffee lovers and people would travel for it. That proved

## Categories

- [Uncategorised](http://www.balcaskie.com/category/uncategorised/)
- [Category 1](http://www.balcaskie.com/category/category-1/)