Blackdown Hills Refuge

Our Family's Rewilding Commitment

Sam & Kate's Farm CIC welcome you to our farm near Staple Hill. We foster deep connection, outdoor learning, and safe human interaction in a tranquil natural landscape.

Our Story

Hands in the Soil

Sam and Kate envisioned a place where families and groups could reconnect with the land. They built this refuge near Staple Hill, guided by principles of rewilding and community. It's a place for everyone to enjoy quiet learning and genuine nature interactions.

Before Sam & Kate’s Farm, we began married life in a little shepherd’s hut, surrounded by plenty of chickens and the simple joys of outdoor living. From there, we moved into a cabin in the woods, where we worked within an outdoor school residential business. Living and working so closely with nature sparked a dream in us: one day, we wanted to create something of our own.

We believe we’re made to be outdoors. It’s where we reconnect, recharge and truly thrive. There’s something powerful about stepping away from screens and schedules and returning to the simple things — gathering together, building, caring, learning and sharing around an open fire.

Sam & Kate’s Farm is our little corner of nature’s playground — a place for young and old to get stuck in, slow down, connect and discover the joy of being outdoors.

Sam & Kate's children; Florence and Malachi grew up helping with tame lambs and pigs, sharing their love for the great outdoors. We can't wait to share with you.

Group reviews

Discover what folks say about visiting the farm, we also work with home school communities, the local school, local churches, farmer support events (Harvest Festival Event etc), community groups and enterprises (Hallelujah Hophouse) and we have a growing farm community working with land.

Kate and Sam's farm is a gift to families in Taunton and beyond. They have created a space for exploration, adventure, reconnecting with creation, and rest. Their generous hospitality makes children and adults welcome and feel at home on the farm. Interacting with animals gives children an understanding of life cycles, where our food comes from, and caring for God's creatures. Being outside takes children away from screens and offers them a chance to play in nature, be creative and imaginative, and build connections with others. We have used the farm personally but also offered it as a space to local families. We would love to continue to build our relationship with the farm and see Sam and Kate's ministry flourish in this place.

We've been excited to have had the opportunity to work with Sam at his farm on the Blackdowns every two or three weeks over the past six months.

Our young people have shared the enjoyment of settling in and hand feeding new lambs, as well as taking care of the chickens and other animals at the farm. They have joined in planting and harvesting various crops around the property, such as raspberries, strawberries and potatoes. A highlight for the young people has been preparing and cooking food outdoors on a wood fire, creating a meal to share with everyone. A drumming session in the barn has also been a lot of fun!

Our young people at Charis carry a lot of trauma. The experience of tending to the animals as well as being in nature whilst feeling safe and supported is extremely important for their mental health and wellbeing. Learning new skills also helps to build up their confidence as they seek to overcome past experiences.

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Our Ethos

Natural Learning, Wild Hearts, Open Fires

We believe in unhurried discovery, fostering outdoor confidence through direct experience. From handling tame lambs to gathering around campfire smoke, every moment encourages a deep, meaningful connection with nature.

Ready for Your Group?

We tailor unique woodland and animal experiences for all. Get in touch to plan your visit.