Neil began farming here on a tenancy, and in 1996, the same year he married Patricia, and were fortunate to buy the farm outright. To make that possible, we had to sell Balmangan Cottage. For years we hoped it would one day return, and in 2025 our wish came true when we were finally able to buy it back — now known as Balmangan Beag. Having the cottage once again part of the farm feels like closing a very special circle.
Balmangan Farm and Agritourism
Our journey into agritourism began in 2007 with the creation of our small campsite, Solway View Holidays. Welcoming guests inspired us to share more of farm life, with signposted farm walks, tractor-trailer tours, and later a disc golf course, children’s play area, and easy access to the Solway coast and our ancient woodland. Visitors can enjoy the landscape, learn about farming, and see firsthand how we work alongside nature.
Farming with Nature
Balmangan is a working farm shaped by nature. We graze Highland and Belted Galloway cattle and Tamworth pigs, and we’re progressing toward organic certification. Our focus is on rewilding and biodiversity restoration, improving habitats and encouraging wildlife to flourish across the farm’s fields, hedgerows and woodlands.
Family and Future
Our son Archie recently joined us full-time on the farm, while our daughter Kelly is completing her studies in Glasgow, continuing the family’s connection to this land. Together, we are proud to share Balmangan with our visitors and farm working in harmony with nature.