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 Estate are delighted to partner with The Native Irish Honey Bee Society (NIHBS) to create a conservation area for the native Irish Honey Bee. As a ‘carbon negative’ events and accommodation destination, we are committed to sustainability and supporting the protection of our local environment and wildlife.
Our bee journey began around forty years ago when the Mackie family (owners at Larchfield) were gifted their first beehive. In 2007, the hives were moved to their current location, and local beekeeper Ken Baird kindly took on looking after the Larchfield estate bees!
Each year our honey is spun and jarred, and is now available for guests to purchase from The Old Piggery, a lovely memento to take home to remember their time with us.
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.
