Lambing Season at Copper Beech Glamping

Spring is one of the most exciting times of year on the farm at Copper Beech. From mid-March through to the end of April, around 300 ewes will give birth, marking the arrival of lambing season. It’s a busy, rewarding and very special time, and guests staying with us may even catch a glimpse of some of the first lambs being born.

At the beginning of March, the pregnant ewes are brought into our straw-bedded lambing sheds to prepare for the weeks ahead. They are split into three groups depending on how many lambs they are expecting — singles, twins or triplets. This helps us carefully manage their diets so each ewe receives the right nutrition to support both herself and her lambs.

During the day, the ewes expecting twins often head out to graze in the field next to the glampsite, before coming back into the shed overnight. For guests staying at Shepherd’s View, this can mean a unique opportunity to watch the lambing season unfold.

Throughout lambing season the ewes are monitored during the day and checked several times during the night to make sure everything is progressing safely. Most ewes give birth naturally without assistance, but we’re always nearby if help is needed. Once a lamb is born, we check it over carefully and make sure it receives its first feed of colostrum from its mum, which is vital for its early health and immunity.

After birth, the ewes and their lambs stay inside the sheds for around a week to ensure they are strong, healthy and feeding well. They are then moved outside into the fields in small groups. This year, many of the young families will be grazing in the field across the road from the glampsite, offering lovely views for guests staying in The Woodsman.

Lambing is one of the busiest times on the farm, with animals fed and watered twice a day and fresh straw laid daily. Lambs that need a little extra help are brought into the hospital unit where they can be closely cared for. Occasionally, triplet lambs may also receive bottle feeds to make sure they are getting enough nourishment alongside their mum.

Although it’s a busy season behind the scenes, it’s also one of the most heartwarming. Seeing the fields gradually fill with playful lambs is a wonderful reminder that spring has truly arrived — and for guests staying with us during this time, it’s a chance to experience a very special part of life on the farm.