Shire Farm - A Biodynamic Farm, Vineyard and Wellness Retreat in the Lincolnshire Wolds
Nestled within the rolling hills of the Lincolnshire Wolds, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, lies Shire Farm - one of the United Kingdom's largest biodynamic farms. Spread across more than 500 acres of carefully tended land near the village of Tetford and the market town of Horncastle, Shire Farm is a place where the wellbeing of the earth and the wellbeing of humans are deliberately, lovingly entwined. Owned by Mike Booth, the successor of Aura-Soma founder Vicky Wall, the farm supplies botanical ingredients to the multi-award winning biodynamic skincare brand AEOS, the natural fragrance house Pegasus Parfum, and Aura-Soma, while also producing its own small range of biodynamic wines, juices, wool textiles and tree sponsorship opportunities.
The Story of Shire Farm
The story of Shire Farm is one of great passion for working in harmony with nature. Mike Booth, instinctively driven to cultivate the most holistic farming methods known to man, first actualised his dream in 1995 with 50 acres of land in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Determined to grow the purest, most potent botanical ingredients, Mike looked beyond organic and adopted biodynamic farming methods as the next natural step in the evolution of farming - and so the beloved Shire Farm was born.
Right from the beginning the team worked in conscious harmony with the land, respecting the natural growth cycles of crops, tuning in to astronomical energies and letting the natural interdependence between all the diverse components and creatures of the farm regenerate and maintain the fertility of the earth. The results were abundant, and in just a few years the original 50 acres were awarded a full Demeter certification.
In 2006 the farm flourished further as an additional 439 acres were secured. Despite the soil having been depleted of nutrients and exhausted by many years of conventional farming and chemical applications, an ambitious goal was set: to nourish the land and transform it into a fully-functioning, Demeter-certified biodynamic farm within three years. The labour paid off. The land became fertile once again, biodiversity returned, and the big smiles grew bigger.
Today, Shire Farm supplies plants and herbs to AEOS, Pegasus Parfum, Aura-Soma and the residential training centre Dev Aura, and the team continues to pioneer a model of farming that they believe represents the future of agriculture.
Demeter Certification
Shire Farm is proud to hold full Demeter certification, the global standard for biodynamic agriculture. Current certificates can be viewed directly:
Biodynamic Farming Explained
Cast your mind back to farming in the 1920s and picture Rudolf Steiner - a pioneering visionary, scientist and educator whose intuition and intellect led him to realise, before anyone else, something of vital worldly importance. Steiner recognised the dangers of emerging synthetic fertilisers, poor soil conditions and the impact of the western way of life on the earth. He asserted that a farm must be treated as a single self-sustaining organism that flourishes through biodiversity and the interdependence of all living things.
While biodynamic farming reflects many principles of organic farming, there is a fundamental contrast: biodynamics means creating an ecosystem capable of producing everything it could possibly need without any external input. Every living creature on the farm - from the humble earthworm to the insects and flowers - plays a vital role in nurturing and nourishing the earth and the plants and food it produces.
The word "biodynamic" itself originates from the Greek word "bios" meaning life and "dynamos" meaning energy.
Nourished Soil
To create the most nutrient-packed produce, healthy and thriving soil is at the heart of biodynamic farming. At Shire Farm the team keeps soil nourished in two main ways:
- Farm-derived soil preparations. Natural fertilisers and field sprays are created from manure produced by the farm's Dexter cattle and Zwartbles sheep, and through fermentation of nutrient-rich plants and herbs. Full of minerals and beneficial microbial activity, these preparations stimulate the soil's ecosystem, enhance plant nutrient absorption, fend off pests and prevent the spread of disease.
- Crop rotation. Conventional farming exhausts the soil by growing one crop season after season on the same piece of land. Biodynamic crop rotation ensures that different nutrients in the soil are utilised each time, while mineral-accumulating plants help to replenish it.
The Value of Biodiversity
Biodiversity plays a vital role at Shire Farm. By understanding the dynamics between different species and working with nature rather than trying to manipulate it, the farm enjoys a vibrant, fertile ecosystem with built-in pest and disease controls. Dexter cattle and Zwartbles sheep provide soil-enriching manure. Thriving bee colonies pollinate crops and produce delicious honey. Various insects oxygenate and fertilise the soil or keep plant-damaging pests in check. Berry-laden hedgerows attract birds, who in turn reward the farm with phosphorus-rich droppings and rodent control.
In Harmony with Celestial Cycles
Biodynamic farming recognises the impact of celestial bodies - the Sun, Moon and planets - on the vitality and growth of plants. Variations in sunlight intensity and the ebb and flow of water due to the Moon's magnetic force naturally create energising or resting conditions for plants during the year. These cycles are recorded in the annual Biodynamic Sowing and Planting Calendar, which guides the farmer on when best to sow, cultivate and harvest to maximise the quantity and quality of produce.
Conscious Stewardship
In the biodynamic ecosystem, the farmer is a conscious and responsible steward, recognising and nurturing the interdependence of all the diverse elements of the farm's ecosystem for the optimum benefit of the whole. Tending the earth with wisdom and intuition, the farmer plays a crucial role in maximising the potential of the land to produce the healthiest, most nutritious bounty it can offer.
The Livestock at Shire Farm
Farm animals help maintain a self-sustaining, balanced and harmonious environment. They are absolutely vital to the success of a biodynamic farm. Shire Farm's flock of Zwartbles sheep and herd of Dexter cattle play an important part in the crop rotation system and provide manures that contribute to a healthy, fertile soil. This is in fact their sole purpose on the farm - the animals are not bred for meat or dairy, making them very happy residents.
Zwartbles Sheep
The team adores their Zwartbles sheep for their gentle personality and striking appearance. They are amenable yet lively by nature and make excellent mothers. Their fleece is black with contrasting white markings on the face, feet and tail, which the farm leaves undocked. Naturally polled, they have no horns. Originally a rare breed from the Netherlands, Zwartbles sheep are now well established across the UK.
Dexter Cattle
The Dexter cattle are not only hardy and long-living but also demonstrate great maternal instincts, often nursing calves of other cows. Usually black in colour with red and dun variations, Dexter is the smallest British breed of cattle. Thanks to its adaptable and versatile nature, the breed is now well established in the UK.
The Crops at Shire Farm
A great variety of biodynamic crops are grown at Shire Farm, from skin-nourishing plants and vibrant flowers to nutrient-packed cereals. Some are cultivated for AEOS, Pegasus Parfum and the Aura-Soma Colour-Care-System; others are used in the kitchens of the Dev Aura Residential Training Centre and as feed for the animal friends on the farm. Nothing is wasted - composted crops are returned to the earth to increase soil fertility, continuing the self-sustaining life-force.
Crops Grown on the Farm
- Spelt - the nutritious and versatile ancient cousin of wheat.
- Rye - naturally low in gluten with a distinctive flavour for dense breads and grain blends.
- Clary Sage - distilled into aromatic flower water with astringent properties and used in the Aura-Soma Colour-Care-System.
- Field Beans - planted as part of crop rotation, with deep nitrogen-fixing roots that break up the sub-soil and provide nourishing animal feed.
- Grasses and White Clover - undersown to suppress weeds, build fertility and produce nutritious silage.
- Lavender - distilled on the farm into lavender essential oil and lavender water for the AEOS skincare system.
- Flaxseed - cold-pressed for omega-3-rich oil and used to make durable linen cloth.
- Marigolds (Calendula) - cleansing and restorative extracts used in Aura-Soma and AEOS skincare formulations.
- Poppies - poppy seeds for bread and salads, cold-pressed oil for AEOS Nail and Cuticle Oil, and water-based extract for Aura-Soma Equilibrium bottles.
- Pumpkins - cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil used in regenerating skincare formulations and cosmetics.
- Rosemary - astringent, antioxidant-rich rosemary used in Aura-Soma Pomanders, Quintessences and the Equilibrium range.
- Roses - rose water, rose petal-infused tinctures, Pomander petals, teas, jams and ice cream.
- Sunflowers - cold-pressed sunflower seed oil used in AEOS Nail and Cuticle Oil.
By using the annual Biodynamic Sowing and Planting Calendar to plant and cultivate at optimal times, Shire Farm ensures the highest quality and quantity of crops year after year. Based on over 40 years of ongoing research into the influences of the Moon, planets and constellations on plant growth, this guide is one of the cornerstones of the farm's biodynamic practice.
The Chakra Path - Soil to Soul
Shire Farm is not only a thriving biodynamic farm growing bountiful crops full of life-force and a natural haven rich in wildlife. It is also a place nestled in an area rich in mythology and history, a haven where people can come to strengthen their connection to the earth and find renewed wellbeing as a result.
Walk the chakra path at Shire Farm and discover a life-affirming, transformational experience. The land has been mapped into areas that mirror the human chakra energy system. Each area is marked with standing stones featuring symbols and glyphs created by German sculptress Kerstin Schipper to enhance their natural vibration and provide a focal point for quiet contemplation. Indigenous trees and saplings planted along the way as part of the tree sponsorship program enrich the land and establish a deeper level of wellbeing and awareness.
The Chakra Journey
Walking the chakra path invokes inner stillness and peace. Moving from one area to another helps visitors balance both physical and spiritual aspects of their being, resulting in a renewed sense of vitality and harmony. The journey unfolds through seven areas:
- The first (root) chakra - symbolic of our connection to the earth and being grounded.
- The second (sacral) chakra - a representation of fertility and our creative energies.
- The Star Stone - a reminder for us to let our inner light shine.
- The third (solar) chakra - an invitation to trust our own intelligence and abilities.
- The fourth (heart) chakra - a celebration of our emotions and feelings.
- The fifth (throat) chakra - an encouragement to express our truth.
- The sixth (third eye) chakra - a recognition of our instinctive nature and wisdom.
- The seventh (crown) chakra - a return to full awareness, hope and eternal love.
The chakra path is another demonstration of the farm's philosophy of "nurture and be nurtured": the vitality of the land has a beneficial effect on the wellbeing of humans and vice versa.
The Wines, Juices and Shop Products
Although the farm is best known as a botanical supplier, the team has developed its own small range of products under the Shire Farm label. These include a sparkling wine, cold-pressed juices and a heritage wool textiles collection.
Sparkling Wine
Shire Farm produces its own biodynamic sparkling wine from the estate. Current availability and pricing are available from the farm on enquiry.
Apple Juice
The farm's apple juice is produced from fruit grown on the estate. Pricing is available on request, with orders placed directly with the farm.
Aronia Juice
Aronia juice - made from the nutrient-dense chokeberry - is the farm's other juice offering. Pricing is available on request.
The Wool Collection
The Shire Farm wool range is spun and woven by family-run Curlew Weavers in South Wales from a blend of 50% of the farm's own Zwartbles wool and 50% British Alpaca (used to soften the fabric). All pieces are hand wash or dry clean only. Current products and prices in the Shire Farm shop include:
- Herringbone Scarf (24 x 204cm) - £37.00
- Herringbone Throw (152 x 168cm) - £192.00
- Herringbone Long Throw (152 x 168cm) - £244.00
- Herringbone Stole (74 x 193cm) - £108.00
- Scarf (204 x 24cm) - Regular £29.99, Sale £23.99
- Throw (224 x 144cm) - Regular £188.00, Sale £150.40
- Shawl (100 x 140cm) - Regular £84.00, Sale £67.20
- Long Shawl (74 x 182cm) - Regular £78.00, Sale £62.40
- Picnic Blanket (144 x 188cm) - Regular £160.00, Sale £128.00
Tree Sponsorship
Shire Farm believes that only by taking good care of the earth can humanity truly thrive. As conscious stewards of the land, the team has supported nature in the creation of sustainable woodland and in planting indigenous seeds and saplings. Tree species planted include beech, willow, walnut, oak, chestnut, birch, poplar, hornbeam, whitebeam and lime.
Trees nourish the land, improve air quality and support birds, insects and other wildlife. They also have a profound grounding effect on the chakras of the human etheric body. Trees at Shire Farm are planted in special chakra areas to support the wellbeing of humans and the land alike.
Sponsorship of each individual tree costs £25.00 and includes a certificate. It is described by the team as "a gift gratefully received by both us and the earth." Trees can be sponsored online.
Visit, Stay and Celebrate at Shire Farm
Explore the Farm
Nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds within 500 acres of stunning biodynamic farmland, Shire Farm is a very special, very beautiful and very unique outdoor venue where the wellbeing of the land and the wellbeing of humans come together. Set within an area of outstanding natural beauty with incredible views of rolling hills, grassy fields and woodland, the peaceful outdoor location offers an idyllic, secluded and completely private space to explore.
The Yurt Village
The gorgeous Yurt Village is nestled in a beautiful quiet spot on the farm and is perfect for groups who want to get away from it all. The village includes one super-cozy 32ft living-room yurt with a log burner, sofa bed and additional sleeping space; two spacious 16ft yurts great for couples, friends and families; and three smaller 10ft yurts providing a private space suitable for couples or solo glampers.
In addition to the six yurts, guests have access to a kitchen, an outdoor BBQ and dining area, a toilet and shower block, towels, bedding and cutlery. The farm even includes some beautiful Aura-Soma products to use during the stay. When you book the Shire Farm Yurt Village you can enjoy having the whole place exclusively to yourself.
The Yurt Village sleeps up to 18 people, and guests are welcome to pitch tents. Both the campsite and Yurt Village offer the opportunity to glamp in the Lincolnshire Wolds in a beautifully secluded spot next to enchanted woodlands and a huge pond brimming with wildlife. A number of additional properties in a nearby village can sleep a further 20 people. Bookings can be made online.
Weddings and Events
Shire Farm is described as a "blank canvas venue" - a beautiful space with a place to escape, relax and reconnect. With the average cost of a UK wedding now standing at £22,000, an element of those costs inevitably leaves a large ecological footprint. At Shire Farm the team firmly believes that your vision doesn't have to be compromised by the implementation of a greener ethos.
Although the farm is not licensed to hold legal wedding ceremonies, it is very happy for couples to hold their own personal blessings or hand-fasting ceremonies on the land. The venue offers various outdoor locations to choose from, as well as quirky onsite yurt accommodation.
Beyond weddings, Shire Farm hosts Academy events for the Aura-Soma community, including Chakra Walks and meditation at the tranquil Heart Pond. Specific dates are administered via the Aura-Soma Academy.
Shipping, Delivery and Returns
The Shire Farm online shop is fulfilled by the Aura-Soma warehouse. The Shipping & Delivery policy sets out the following:
- All orders are processed within 48 hours and dispatched Monday through Friday. Orders placed after 10am on Friday and on the weekend are dispatched Monday morning.
- Once an order has left the warehouse it can take up to 7 working days to arrive, depending on location.
- Drop shipping is not permitted; orders need to be sent to the person placing the order.
- For missing, incorrect or damaged products, customers should email info@aura-soma.com within 24 hours of delivery.
- Unused products may be returned within 7 days of delivery in their original packaging. Shipping and handling costs are not refundable.
Sustainability and the Wider Aura-Soma Family
From planting as many trees as possible and reducing packaging to leading the way with off-the-grid solar power, sustainability is paramount to Shire Farm. The team knows the most energy-efficient systems in the world are those that replenish what is depleted. Reciprocal maintenance has been an integral practice of Mike Booth's - long before going green was on the agenda.
Shire Farm is part of a wider network of Aura-Soma companies:
- AEOS - multi-award winning biodynamic skincare.
- Pegasus Parfum - natural fragrance.
- Aura-Soma - the Colour-Care-System and Pomanders.
- Dev Aura - the residential training centre where the farm's produce is used in the kitchens.
Contact Shire Farm
Shire Farm is operated as part of Aura-Soma Products Ltd. The postal and registered address for the company is:
Aura-Soma Products Ltd
South Road
Tetford
Horncastle
Lincolnshire
LN9 6QB
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1507 533 581
Email: info@aura-soma.com
The farm is active on Instagram at @shirefarmaurasoma, and on Facebook.
Plan Your Visit
Whether visitors come for the Chakra Path, a glass of sparkling wine, a weekend in the yurts, a hand-fasting ceremony, a walk among the lavender fields, a workshop with the Aura-Soma Academy, or simply to sponsor a tree and put something back into the earth, Shire Farm offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the UK. From its humble 50-acre beginnings in 1995 to today's thriving 500-acre Demeter-certified estate, the farm remains a place where the wellbeing of the land and the wellbeing of humans come together - a philosophy of nurture and be nurtured that continues to shape every decision made on the soil of the Lincolnshire Wolds.