Dale Cottage Farm is owned and run by Rob and Alexandra Stevenson. We came here in 2007 after a long search for a piece of land on which to start our own 'cottage farm'.

We have a lifelong interest in wildlife, conservation, ecology and rural traditions.

Our aim is grow an abundance of our own healthy, natural produce whilst maintaining and enhancing the delicate ecological balance of nature.

Over the past few years we have transformed a beautiful but neglected smallholding into a wonderful mosaic of wildlife habitats which also produce lots of naturally grown, sustainable produce.

How we came to grow flowers

Alex originally trained in conservation and ecology, with a particular interest in wild flowers and woodland plants. Later on she decided to widen her experience and indulge a growing interest in gardening by gaining qualifications in Horticulture. She also spent a year in practical training with the WFGA and went on to work for some years as a gardener and garden consultant.

Alex has always had an interest in art and crafts and her hobbies include drawing, painting and textile art.

Starting the cutting garden, Alex has found that the threads of these varied interests have become interwoven, culminating in the formation of a business which allows her to express her creative talents whilst engaging her passion for horticulture and the natural world.