BBC Countryfile’s Adam Henson opens up on decision to leave his farm in ‘end of an era’
Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has announced he will leave his 650-hectare Cotswolds Farm Park estate when the tenancy expires in 12 years, marking what he calls the “end of an era”.
The 59-year-old farmer and television personality revealed his decision to vacate the property his father Joe established in 1971, citing his children’s lack of interest in pursuing farming careers.
Henson said that while he spent his childhood “pulling on my wellies and chasing my dad out of the door to join him on the farm”, his own children have chosen different paths.
His daughter has established herself as an events organiser in Perth, whilst his son works as a financial advisor in Leeds.
Despite their practical farming abilities, Henson acknowledged his children have chosen careers away from agriculture.
“Sure, they can lamb a sheep and drive a tractor, but my daughter lives in Perth as an events organiser and my son is a financial advisor in Leeds,” he explained to the Express.
The presenter’s children’s professional choices reflect a broader trend of younger generations moving away from traditional farming careers, even when raised on working farms.
MORE LIKE THIS:
Adam Henson makes admission about ‘pretty stupid’ BBC Countryfile blunder which almost caused ‘casualties’Countryfile star announces pregnancy with famous DJ boyfriend after weeks of speculation: ‘Enjoying this privately’Julia Bradbury makes frightening admission as BBC Countryfile star reflects – ‘Death looked me in the eyes’
Henson reflected on his father’s pioneering approach to farming, noting: “My dad was ahead of his time by opening a farm for people to come and visit, bottle-feed a lamb or hold a chick.”
The contrast between his own childhood enthusiasm and his children’s career choices was stark.
“While I was pulling on my wellies and chasing my dad out of the door to join him on the farm, my own children aren’t interested in a career in farming,” he said.
The Cotswolds Farm Park has been a fixture in the area since Joe Henson founded it in 1971, becoming one of Britain’s first farm visitor attractions.
Henson and his wife Charlie have already made plans for their future after leaving the farm.
“So when the tenancy runs out in 12 years’ time, Charlie and I are moving to a bungalow close by in Winchcombe, where we have a few acres and will keep a few sheep and the dogs,” he revealed.
The move will allow the couple to maintain a connection to rural life whilst downsizing from their current extensive farming operation.
“It will be the end of an era, but I will still be able to enjoy the lovely countryside,” Henson added, expressing optimism about the transition.