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Restoring Our Woodland

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Follow our Victorian woodland, Spence Plantation, and its journey from the dense undergrowth of invasive species to a thriving and diverse habitat for all the enjoy. About Our Woodland From Ordnance Survey maps, we can see that our woodland, Spence Plantation, was first developed sometime between 1888 and 1901, making it around 120 years old. … Continued

Stone Age to the Norman Conquest

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Discover the deep history of our West Dorset, from the time of the building of Stone Henge, to the Norman Conquest that shaped England. West Dorset: a district of England renowned for its golden cliffs, sweeping pebble beaches, fossils, and spectacular views. Located in the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and stretching for almost … Continued

Development of Louma – Part 1: Learning the Land

By ffc_encircle

When Louma’s founders discovered Spence Farm, they saw that it was a magical place to be enjoyed by many. Follow the development of Louma to a diverse and sumptuous family retreat. Discovering Spence Farm In 2019, Louis and Emma asked for my help exploring a number of personal and commercial ventures including viticulture, farming, and … Continued

Development of Louma – Part 2: Cultivating Community

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Follow the journey of Spence Farm, from a 30 acre vineyard, surrounded by pasture to a diverse and sumptuous family retreat, cultivated from a communal love of the land. Follow the journey of Spence Farm, from a 30 acre vineyard, surrounded by pasture to a sumptuous family retreat, cultivated from a communal love of the … Continued

Spring Grazing

By ffc_encircle

The awakening of spring may seem like a gentle period, but much is afoot on our farm at Louma. The animals are busy bringing new life into the world and our farmers, sewing new seeds for the season ahead. In the Earth March may seem a quiet time in West Dorset. However, whilst the countryside … Continued

Veganuary with our Head Chef

By ffc_encircle

VEGANUARY:  the global campaign to try plant-based food for January and beyond is coming to Louma, spearheaded by our head chef, John Long. Don’t worry the famous Louma sausages (plus all other meats, dairy and fish) will still be on the daily Louma menu. ‘What I also hope to show is how fun plant-based cooking … Continued

The Lifesource of Louma

By ffc_encircle

Water is integral to everything we do at Louma, feeding our ponds, animals, gardens, buildings, and us. This vital system is maintained by our Head of Grounds, Joe Leighton. It is within my role to ensure that our water system is safe and reliable for us to drink, that it runs consistently, and that we … Continued

A special walk through the woods

By ffc_encircle

When we arrived at Louma we were lucky enough to inherit a Victorian arboretum, known locally as Spence Plantation. Previous owners had begun planting it between 1888 and 1901, making some of the trees, which include non-native turkey oaks, plus sycamores, beech and hazel, more than 120 years old. The woodland had stood neglected for … Continued

Protecting Our Pollinators

By ffc_encircle

We are dedicated to helping bee populations to flourish. This vital work includes installing a range of hives that attract colonies to move in, monitoring colony health, and establishing the habitats they need to thrive.