For a number of years, Larchfield Estate has been breeding pedigree Alpacas and Miniature Donkeys. Gavin's father first brought Alpacas to Larchfield from The Andes in the 1980's. Whilst some people use them for their wool and others as smart lawnmowers, they are also renowned for their ability to keep foxes away from sheep, especially during lambing.
Our miniature donkeys are also very popular among guests to the Estate. They are very friendly, though we recommend you say hello from the other side of a fence.
Larchfield is also a haven for indigenous wildlife. From barn owls to kingfishers, otters to trout, wild swans to visiting geese, our waterways and woodlands are thriving. We also have an abundance of pheasants and partridges and a walled garden full of butterflies and insects.
