Tag Archives: farm shop

News

Organic farm estate to hold six-day Halloween celebration with 3,000 pumpkins ready for picking

RHUG ESTATE has a frightening feast of activities and attractions in store this Halloween.

The sprawling 12,500-acre organic farm estate, near Corwen in North Wales, has up to 3,000 pumpkins ready for picking.

And following the success of last year’s spooky celebrations, the Estate will hold a six-day programme of events, beginning on Saturday October 26.

Rhug’s first-ever Pumpkin Festival is expected to attract thousands of people from across North Wales and beyond, with a series of special guests including the team from Animal Encounters and their Face Your Fears workshops, complete with creepy crawlies, reptiles and spiders.

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough said: “Last year’s Halloween celebrations were so popular we decided to do more for our loyal customers and visitors this autumn.

“The organic pumpkin picking was a huge hit with families, so we have introduced further activities across the Estate, to make it an even more fun – and frightening! – experience.”

There will also be foraged fun sessions courtesy of Living Wild’s Witches and Webs, ghastly games, a frightening twist on the farm walk, and warm treats – including monstrous marshmallows and horrific hot chocolate – to enjoy from the award-winning shop, café, On the Hoof takeaway, and drive thru.

You can even craft your own witch’s broom, magic wand, spider’s web or ghosts and ghouls.

Estate Farm Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, added: “There will be lots to keep children and parents entertained, so we look forward to welcoming people for a spooky and unforgettable half-term at Rhug.”

On arrival there will be signs around the car park and farm shop with directions to the pumpkin patch and attractions. There will also be an activities sheet and map available from the farm shop.

Booking is only required for the workshops, not the pumpkin picking.

For more information, visit: Pumpkin Festival | Rhug Estate.

The team at Rhug Estate would love to see your pictures on Instagram so be sure to add the hashtags #rhugpumpkins and #pwmpenrhug to your posts so they can like and share! 

For the latest news and information from Rhug Estate, including a programme of events for the rest of 2024, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow @rhugestate on social media.

News

Trailblazer in sustainable farming unveils new developments for Organic September

A TRAILBLAZER in sustainable farming and food production unveiled a series of new developments for Organic September.

The 12,500-acre Rhug Estate, near Corwen in North Wales, has been a pioneer in green agriculture for more than two decades, at the forefront of advances in the sector.

Led by owner Lord Newborough, the 100-strong team at Rhug have pushed the envelope even further in 2024, introducing systems, processes and facilities to benefit customers and the many animals they have on-site, including North American Bison and slow-maturing turkeys.

One of just seven businesses in Wales to receive a Royal Warrant of Appointment from His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen, Rhug Estate is working on numerous initiatives that will further cement its position as a leading voice in organic farming and the health and wellbeing sector, with its award-winning Wild Beauty range produced from foraged ingredients.

Recent developments included the construction of modern and efficient mobile poultry sheds to accommodate up to 12,000 chickens, which complement the nearby solar farm, hydro turbines and biomass boilers, running alongside riverside corridors.

Reflecting on the strides made at Rhug Estate in recent years, Lord Newborough said: “There has been a period of significant investment in carbon neutral processes and green energy projects which will have a positive impact on our carbon footprint and the local area.

“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and while we are fully behind the Organic September campaign, every month is organic here!”

He added: “We celebrate and promote biodiversity and the journey to net zero, always looking at ways to utilise the land with new techniques and technology to ensure the best and most-sustainably produced food and drink for our loyal customers.”

Crucial developments in the last two years included fitting a hydrogen electrolyser to one of the Rhug delivery vans that travels to London twice a week, reducing exhaust emissions by up to 80%, and fuel combustion by 20%. 

Meanwhile, the cutting plant introduced an electrical forklift, replacing the original tractor used to move items around the site; staff have undertaken carbon literacy training to sharpen their knowledge on climate change, and there was the introduction of ‘regenerative agriculture’ methods, transitioning to a rotational grazing system to support soil health, as well as improving the overall efficiency of livestock systems.

Estate Farm Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, added: “The list goes on and on, but we will keep working hard, striving to be even more sustainable and raising standards while embracing innovation.

“Our organic farm operation is a beacon of best practice for others in the UK and beyond, something we are immensely proud of, and the numbers reinforce that.

“There are more developments in the pipeline so watch this space! The organic ethos is at the heart of everything we do, it has been for more than 20 years and will continue to be for generations to come.”

Organic September is about celebrating everything organic and the hard work and dedication that goes into growing while working with nature, not against it. In a world where health, sustainability, and conscious consumerism are becoming increasingly important, the landscape of organic shopping is evolving – the time for organic is now!

Follow #organicseptember on social media and visit Home | Organic UK (ukorganic.org) for more information.

For more news and information on Rhug Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate. The Estate is now offering a Click and Collect delivery service for customers choosing to pick up products rather than have them delivered. Any customer wishing to Click and Collect can do so up until 11pm every Wednesday, with collection the following Friday.

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

News

New head chef is hungry for success at 12,500-acre organic farm estate

A TALENTED chef is hungry for success at one of the country’s most popular landmarks.

Matt Wallis is the new head chef at the 12,500-acre Rhug Estate, based near Corwen, Denbighshire.

Born in South Africa and raised in Liverpool, Matt has worked all over the UK and gained a strong reputation for continental and Middle Eastern cuisine, delivering unique dishes packed with flavour and cooked from the heart.

As he prepares to unveil a new summer menu for customers to the Estate’s bustling cafe, the self-taught supremo is thrilled to have joined the growing team at Rhug and keen to capitalise on the wide range of ingredients grown and foraged on site.

“I have worked at restaurants across the country, from London to Cambridge and further afield, but know this region well as my last position was nearby, in Ruthin,” he said.

“It’s a wonderful part of the world, I’m really enjoying the role and plan to put my own stamp on what’s already a fantastic reputation for the café and the food it serves.

“Everyone has been very welcoming, notably the many visitors we have here, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my career at Rhug.”

Matt is also keen to promote sustainability and responsible, healthy eating, key drivers for the Estate and its owner, Lord Newborough.

“We are pleased to announce the appointment of Matt, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for global flavours to Rhug Estate, which will have an exciting influence on our cafe’s menu,” he said.

“We are delighted to have him on board, and he’s particularly drawn to our dedication to fresh, organic ingredients and commitment to zero-waste practices, values he wholeheartedly shares, so it’s the perfect fit.”

Lord Newborough added: “Matt aims to elevate Cafe Rhug’s reputation for delicious and creative cuisine and we are confident with his experience and attitude towards sustainability he be a valuable asset for many years to come.”

Stay up to date with the latest news from Rhug Estate by visiting www.rhug.co.uk and following @rhugestate on social media.

News

Organic farm estate one of only seven brands in Wales to receive King’s Royal Warrant

RHUG ESTATE has received one of the first Royal Warrants of Appointment from His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen.

The organic farm estate, based near Corwen in Denbighshire, is one of just seven businesses in Wales to have been selected for the accolade.

The 12,500-acre site had previously been honoured with a Royal Warrant of Appointment from the Prince of Wales – now King Charles III – for its sustainable ethos and overseeing the entire journey of its animals, supplying restaurants globally in addition to its own popular farm shop and takeaway.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate, said: “This is an incredible honour and testament to both the quality of our organic produce, notably the high-quality meat we supply all over the world, and the dedication of our fantastic team.

“Every year we strive to do better, to be more innovative, environmentally conscious, and responsible while raising the bar for organic produce in Wales, at home and on the international stage.

“The Royal Warrant is a seal of approval; it gives us confidence and a platform to reach even further as we explore new markets and unveil new products.

“Whether it be in the café, our farm shop and drive thru or at Michelin-starred restaurants in London or the Middle East, our reputation is further strengthened by the Royal Warrant, so we are of course thrilled to be among the first to receive it.”

The grants were made to companies drawn from those previously holding a Royal Warrant of Appointment, which were first handed out in 1980.

Companies were reviewed and 145 were chosen. Of those, seven were also granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to HM The Queen.

The document permits an organisation to use the Royal Arms in connection with its business in an appointed trading capacity and is granted for up to five years at a time as a mark of recognition for the ongoing supply of goods or services to the Royal Household.

Those holding Royal Warrants of Appointment represent a huge cross-section of trade and industry, from sole traders to multi-nationals, all united by a commitment to the highest standards of service, quality, excellence, and craftsmanship.

“Congratulations to all those who have received this accolade, we are honoured to be named among this select group and will work hard to maintain the very high standards that helped us to secure it once again,” added Lord Newborough.

For the full list of companies granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment, visit Royal Warrant Holders Association | Public home page.

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

News

Organic farm estate launches charitable trust to provide opportunities for city families

A MULTI award-winning organic farm estate launched its own charitable trust to promote sustainability, healthy eating and give disadvantaged children from urban areas an opportunity to experience nature and the countryside.

Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, welcomes tens of thousands of visitors every year and has raised money for many UK and international organisations and campaigns, including the NSPCC, Awyr Las, Hope House Hospice, and humanitarian appeals for Ukraine.

More than 1,500 school children enjoyed trips to the 12-500 acre site – which includes a farm shop, drive thru, retail operation, sustainable meat processing plant and Wild Beauty collection – in 2023 alone, along with learners and representatives from colleges, universities, agricultural institutions, business groups and more.

With the Charity Commission having now approved the formation of Rhug Charitable Trust, Estate owner Lord Newborough and his 100-strong team have big plans going forward.

“The aim of the charitable trust was to support charities and organisations in our community and across the country,” he said.

“But also, to advance education across a number of curriculum areas, share knowledge about healthy eating and nature-friendly land management and to open up facilities for recreation, particularly to those who might not have access to the benefits of being in the countryside, whatever their age or background.”

Lord Newborough added: “I am very proud to say the Estate has worked closely with schools, colleges, universities, and community groups for many, many years – it’s an important part of our philosophy of educating and informing people about what we do.

“And after several months of hard work I am delighted that we now have a charitable arm to the Estate.

“The funding we can access will enable us to expand our work, giving many more people the chance to experience the countryside, learn about nature-friendly land management and healthy eating, which are so important to us.

“We are excited to see how this develops and already have lots of ideas in the pipeline, so watch this space.”

For more information on Rhug Charitable Trust (Charity Number 1206365), email Estate Administrator Janice Dale at janicedale@rhug.co.uk.

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

News

Organic farm estate unveils series of net zero wins following period of investment

A CELEBRATED organic farm estate grew its reputation as a pioneer in sustainable business with a series of net zero triumphs including a move towards ‘regenerative agriculture’.

The 12,500-acre Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is renowned for its carbon neutral processes and ground-breaking systems.

Led by owner Lord Newborough, the award-winning Estate did even more to reinforce that reputation in the last 12 months, unveiling a series of green energy projects ranging from 4KW to 5MW – including wind, solar, hydro and heat pumps – and receiving plaudits for the international success of its Rhug Wild Beauty range, which uses ingredients foraged on site.

There was also a period of “significant investment” in measuring and monitoring their carbon footprint, as well as reducing emissions.

“Sustainability and protecting the environment is integral to the ethos of Rhug Estate,” said Lord Newborough.

“The significant investment we have made aims to improve carbon sequestration, reduce emissions and reach net zero across our varied and diverse portfolio, but this is just the start of our journey – we have so much more to do.”

Pivotal developments included fitting a hydrogen electrolyser to one of the Rhug delivery vans that travels to London twice a week, reducing exhaust emissions by up to 80%, and fuel combustion by 20%. In addition to that the utility vehicles used every day by shepherds and stockman were converted to gas, leading to huge savings on diesel.

Meanwhile, the cutting plant recently introduced an electrical forklift, replacing the original tractor used to move items around the site; staff have undertaken carbon literacy training to sharpen their knowledge on climate change; measures have been implemented to optimise the efficiency of livestock systems; recycling containers and processes have been upgraded, and the Estate now collaborates with the Too Good To Go scheme, a food waste app that enables customers to reserve and collect surprise food bags that would otherwise be thrown away if not sold.

However, one of the biggest steps was the introduction of ‘regenerative agriculture’ methods, transitioning to a rotational grazing system to support soil health, as well as improving the overall efficiency of livestock systems.

“These are a list of the things we are doing as we continue to raise standards while innovating and hopefully inspiring other organisations in Wales and beyond,” said Lord Newborough.

“We have promoted the use of organic and sustainable farming practices for more than 20 years, and as a result, our recent carbon footprint assessment confirmed we are carbon negative, which is an amazing achievement and makes me very proud of everyone here at the Estate.

“The result means on-farm carbon sequestration outweighs the total emissions associated with daily operations, a comparison being approximately 1600 tonnes of carbon (CO2e) each year, the equivalent to the emissions from 900 single flights to New York.”

He added: “From agroecology to efficiency, we constantly and consistently focus on all areas of the business, notably the farm shop, take away and drive thru, which led to an energy saving of 20,000kWh of electricity between September 2022 and September 2023, and a carbon saving of 4000kgCO2e.

“That has included utilising electricity from our own solar and wind energy generation and looking for opportunities to develop new systems on-site.

“In the last three years we have made remarkable progress. Through the gradual implementation of sustainable practices across all our businesses we have accomplished great change, and we continue to do so.

“We are constantly pushing ourselves to do even better, knowing that every effort we make contributes to a brighter and more sustainable future for the next generation.”

For more news and information, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

News

New face joins growing team at globally-recognised organic beauty brand

THERE’S a new face at an award-winning organic beauty range.

Skincare expert Louise Evripidou has joined the team at Rhug Wild Beauty, the popular collection based at Rhug Estate, near Corwen in North Wales.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the sector, Louise is well placed to help take the brand – which is produced using ingredients foraged on the 12,500-acre Denbighshire site – to the next level.

Now living on the picturesque farm estate with partner Mike, the mum-of-two, who hails from Wirral, is thrilled to be helping drive sales via the farm shop while also holding beauty therapy consultation and education sessions in the evenings.

With plans for a pop-up spa and wellness centre on site, Rhug Wild Beauty is looking to build further on its reputation for quality, sustainability, and care, having achieved seven medals, including two golds and three silver, at last year’s Free From Skincare Awards.

“I am so pleased to be here, I really believe in the products and the success of the range so far speaks for itself,” said Louise.

“I’ve worked in five-star spas, hotels and the aesthetics industry for more than 25 years and this collection is up there with the best I’ve come across, so I’m privileged to now be part of the Wild Beauty journey.”

Skin consultations will take place on Wednesdays and Saturdays this month, and there will be an evening consultation and mini facials session on Wednesday March 27 from 6pm-8pm.

As well as offering tips and guidance, Louise can create bespoke skincare routines for customers, and there will be product trials, arm and hand massages, and more.

“This is the perfect place inside and out for people to come and receive a treatment or even sit and talk through our range of products in a warm, welcoming environment,” she added.

“Rhug Wild Beauty is renowned in the UK and globally for its commitment to naturally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, so I’m going to incorporate that same approach into our personal pampering rituals.

“I look forward to welcoming new and existing customers and being able to share my expertise as the brand continues to grow and go from strength to strength.

“Rhug Estate is so idyllic; we are loving being part of the fabric of this amazing destination and are excited for the future.”

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

To book an evening session and for more information on times, visit the website: https://rhug.co.uk/product/mini-treatment-skin-consultation

News

Organic farm estate now has largest herd of bison in UK following new year additions

THESE are the first images of Rhug Estate’s newest addition – 20 North American bison.

The majestic animals have found their home on the 12,500-acre organic farm estate near Corwen in North Wales.

As a result, Rhug now proudly boasts the largest bison herd in the UK, and visitors to the estate can catch a glimpse whilst on the farm walk, a truly memorable experience.

Back in 2007, Lord Newborough had the visionary idea to introduce bison to the estate, and the herd has flourished ever since.

Estate Farm Manager Emyr Owen, from Llanrwst, says the bison family has now grown to over 60, thanks to a recent farm sale in Wiltshire.

Not only do the animals provide a sustainable supply of high-quality meat for distribution and sale on-site, but they also captivate tourists from far and wide, turning heads wherever they roam.

Emyr revealed the bison breeding season is a busy one, with calving taking place from April through to the summer.

As he embarks on his one-year anniversary at the estate, he reflected on the “rewarding yet demanding” journey.

“We have been absolutely flat-out, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said Emyr.

“There have been countless developments and endless learning opportunities, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the experience.”

Rhug Estate is renowned as a premier producer of high-quality meats in the UK and has gained recognition for its commitment to countryside preservation and high animal welfare standards.

The Estate was honoured with a Royal Warrant of Appointment by the now King Charles III. From field to plate, Rhug oversees the entire journey of its animals, supplying restaurants worldwide in addition to its own popular farm shop and takeaway.

To stay informed about the latest news and updates from Rhug Estate, visit their website at www.rhug.co.uk and follow @rhugestate on social media.

News

New jobs and organic expansion as farm estate ends year on a high

ORGANIC growth at a leading farm estate is not limited to its award-winning products.

Rhug Estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is experiencing significant expansion in all aspects of its operations.

Home and overseas sales have remained buoyant this year and over past weeks several new faces have joined the Rhug family.

Among the recent recruits are Cutting Plant Manager Paulo Santos, and Richard Harris, who will be taking on the role of Procurement and Logistics Manager for the entire Rhug Estate group, including the renowned Wild Beauty range.

Additionally, Emily Johnson has been appointed Head of Sales and Marketing, and Merial Owen to the Accounts department.

Despite difficult trading conditions the sprawling 12,500-acre estate has continued to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lord Newborough, owner of Rhug Estate and a finalist in the Unretirement Entrepreneur of the Year category at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards, predicts continued success in 2024.

“We are thrilled to welcome Paulo, Richard, Emily, and Merial to our expanding team,” he said.

“The growth we have experienced in all areas of our business this year has necessitated to strengthen the team.

“Our national and international presence, particularly with the Wild Beauty collection, has created a demand for more resources and expertise.”

Lord Newborough added: “As one of the significant employers in this region of North Wales, we take pride in our contribution to the local economy.

“Our farm estate attracts thousands of visitors and supports various producers and small businesses in our supply chain.

“These key appointments will enable us to further our vision for 2024, elevating our standards of quality and commitment to delivering the finest products, events, and produce to our customers.”

For more news and information including upcoming events and vacancies with the team at Rhug Organic Farm Estate, visit the website www.rhug.co.uk and follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

For more information on Wild Beauty, visit www.rhugwildbeauty.com or follow them on social media @rhugwildbeauty.

News

Turkey sales take off at organic farm estate ahead of Christmas event countdown

RHUG ESTATE will serve up lashings of Christmas cheer for visitors over the coming weeks.

The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is celebrating the yuletide holidays with a series of events and activities for all the family to enjoy.

First up is a two-day food and craft fair, beginning on Saturday December 9, where local producers, crafters and artists will be on hand to share recipes, samples, and showcase their wares.

A selection of Rhug’s award-winning artisan suppliers will also be on hand to speak to, there will be delicious festive treats to enjoy, and a selection of winter warmers including pre-made and bespoke hampers.

On the Sunday (December 10) Santa will be at Rhug – he’s good friends with Lord Newborough and the team! – and ready to welcome children from 10am-4pm. He may even bring one of his reindeer and have a present for you.

And on the following Thursday evening (December 14), you can join the annual Rhug Chapel Service before meeting back at the farm shop and café for carol singing, mulled wine and food, which will be available until 8pm.

December is one of the busiest times of the year at Rhug Estate, and with up to 500 of their award-winning organic Dee Valley Bronze turkeys, meat boxes and geese up for grabs, Lord Newborough urged people to get in touch soon and not miss out.

“The festive events are always a firm favourite as this is such a fabulous place to be at Christmas time, with the amazing atmosphere and the wide range of food we produce in time for the holiday season,” he said.

“We look forward to seeing you all and encourage anyone planning to pre-book one of our organic turkeys or geese to do so quickly as they are already selling fast.”

Lord Newborough added: “Demand is always very high in the weeks before what is for many people the most important meal of the year, and as our turkeys are so very special – they are fed a diet of finest organic oats grown right here at Estate, have plenty of space to roam and exercise and even listen to classical music – customers are always keen to be at the front of the queue.

“We even get orders from as far away as Singapore and Hong Kong, and this year we are offering a wider range of sizes to choose from, so we recommend you order yours soon!”

For more information and to book your place at one of Rhug’s Christmas events, visit www.rhug.co.uk. Follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

To pre-book your turkey or goose in time for Christmas, call 01490 413000, email contact@rhug.co.uk or visit the website: www.rhug.co.uk/product/rhug-estate-organic-dee-valley-bronze-turkey.